Employment Specialist III

$1,000.00 sign-on bonus, paid in increments of $250.00 each quarter (3, 6, 9, and 12 months of employment).

About the role

Didlake, Inc. is a non-profit rehabilitation services organization. At Didlake, creating opportunities that enrich the lives of people with disabilities is our mission. Since 1965, Didlake has served thousands of people with significant disabilities by providing training, job placement, employment opportunities, and day support services. We provide rewarding and purposeful work.

The Employment Specialist III plays a critical role in empowering individuals with disabilities to achieve meaningful, competitive employment. This position focuses on short-term, individualized employment services that help people build skills, gain independence, and fully participate in their communities through work. You’ll collaborate with vocational rehabilitation partners, employers, families, and community resources to create inclusive employment opportunities across the regions of Suffolk, Chesapeake, and Portsmouth.

Responsibilities

• Provide in-person employment services including situational assessments, job development, job placement, training, and follow-along support.
• Conduct vocational evaluations in real commercial and government work settings.
• Support individuals with resume writing, applications, interviews, and employer follow-up.
• Deliver one-to-one job training and help build natural workplace supports.
• Monitor job performance, employer satisfaction, and ongoing support needs.
• Maintain accurate documentation and progress notes in compliance with CARF, DARS, DMAS, DBHDS, SSA/Ticket to Work, and Didlake standards.
• Coordinate with vocational rehabilitation counselors, case managers, families, and natural support systems.
• Provide travel training, transportation coordination, and crisis intervention as needed.
• Implement assistive technology and recommend environmental modifications.
• Support Pre-Employment Transition Services, including Work Readiness Training and Work-Based Learning Experiences.
• Market supported employment services to referral sources and employers.
• Develop job opportunities and conduct employer outreach, presentations, and job fairs.
• Independently manage a caseload while working flexible hours to meet consumer needs.

Requirements

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in education, vocational rehabilitation, social work, business, or a related field and at least 2 years of experience in employment services or disability support OR
• High School diploma/GED with 5 years of experience in supported or transition employment services.
• Experience with person-centered planning and individualized training preferred.

Skills & Abilities

• Ability to manage a caseload of up to 40 consumers.
• Marketing and public relations skills to advocate for employment opportunities.
• The use of positive, proactive behavior management techniques.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and electronic case management systems.
• Eligible for QDDP designation.
• Ability to obtain and maintain facility security clearance and SSA suitability.
• Valid driver’s license, reliable personal vehicle, and insurability under Didlake’s auto policy.
• Willing to use your personal vehicle for daily, work-related travel throughout the GHRA service area, including Suffolk, Chesapeake, and Portsmouth.
• Eligible for hire under DBHDS and DSS criminal and child registry background checks.

Benefits

• Health coverage for you and your family through Medical, Dental, Vision plans
• Life Insurance/AD&D
• Disability Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work and personal support
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match
• Paid time off and sick leave that begins accruing upon hire
• Employee Development Program (EDP)
• Paid holidays
• Direct deposit

Pay

Starts at $25.95/hour. Salary range: $45,000–$60,000.

Schedule

• Full-time
• 40 standard hours per week
• Varies (flexible hours to meet consumer needs)