EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST - OPWDD

General Description

Provide vocational services to persons enrolled in waiver services. Development and implementation of the various employment services offered through OPWDD. Support and coach staff on required documentation and training through OPWDD.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Provides direct services and support to individuals receiving Pre-Vocational Services, Employment Training Program (ETP), Supported Employment including intensive and follow-along services as indicated in each person’s Individual Service Plan (ISP) and Employment Plan(s).
• Provides timely reports on individuals’ progress through daily documentation and other means as needed or requested.
• Learns the eVero database system for recordkeeping.
• Knows the service plan and safeguards for each individual served.
• Provides skill training-assistance by learning specific work duties and performance standards for jobs service recipients obtain (e.g., doing the task).
• Develops work-related behaviors in service recipients such as time and attendance, dress, communication skills, accepting supervision and travel skills.
• Affords assistance with job development in the community. (Job development includes but not limited to situational assessments, observations, site tours, job shadows in order to assist the individual with identifying what type of job the individual is best suited for and interested in).
• Acts as liaison between individual, family, employer, co-workers of individuals, and other providers to ensure individuals are receiving the appropriate services.
• Communicates with supervisors on how to best work with newly placed individuals.
• Affords assistance in developing a sense of belonging at the work site, encourages an understanding of and participation in employee programs, which involves socialization with coworkers.
• Facilitates the development of positive relationships between individuals and their employers and co-workers.
• Follows and maintains days and hours of services as assigned, providing safe transportation as needed.
• Conducts outreach to the community about the services offered and provided by Catholic Charities.
• Attends training and other meetings as required.
• Completes other duties as assigned by supervisor.

Qualifications

• Education and Experience: Bachelor’s Degree and one year of experience in rehabilitation placement or related field, and enrollment in a specialized course approved by ACCES-VR; OR Bachelor’s Degree, enrollment in a specialized course, and enrollment in a Master’s Degree program in vocational rehabilitation counselor or evaluation or related areas; OR A combination of education and experience which, in the judgement of ACCES-VP, is sustainably equivalent to the standards of this subdivision.
• Credentials: Valid NY State Driver License and access to a reliable vehicle (if required). Relevant years of experience and education will be considered.

Physical Demands/Work Environment

The physical demands/work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit, talk, hear, stand, walk, use hands to type and/or perform light lifting. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision and ability to adjust focus. The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet.

Compliance

Adheres to all applicable federal and state laws and regulations including, but not limited to, those governing confidentiality, privacy, program, billing, and documentation standards. Any offer of employment will be contingent upon successful completion of a background check. CCDOR considers all background check information in accordance with applicable law.

Top Benefits and Perks

• Competitive salary and 403b retirement plan
• Generous time off package and work-life balance
• Comprehensive benefits package
• Supportive and collaborative environment
• Opportunities for growth and development
• Intrinsic reward of truly making a difference in people's lives

Join Us

Join us and help make a positive impact in our community!