Job Coach

About the Role

The Sparc Job Coach/Skills Trainer plays a vital role in supporting individuals with disabilities as they develop the skills needed for successful employment and community integration. This position provides on-the-job training, coaching, and mentoring in various workplace settings to ensure individuals can perform their job duties effectively and independently. The Job Coach/Skills Trainer delivers structured training and ongoing support, equipping each individual with the tools and confidence to thrive in the workforce and actively participate in their community.

Universal Competencies

• Collaboration/Positive Impact: Ability to work constructively with diverse teams and individuals, utilizing resources to achieve desired outcomes while integrating Sparc’s core values to "TEACH, COACH, and MENTOR."
  • Adapts to change and learning opportunities.
  • Demonstrates civil and respectful behaviors.
  • Provides and accepts constructive feedback.
  • Exhibits teamwork and approachability.
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Ability to work respectfully with individuals and groups, appreciating the unique contributions of an inclusive workforce.
  • Articulates Sparc’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
  • Demonstrates behaviors aligned with Sparc’s guiding principles and policies.
  • Examines personal biases, assumptions, and attitudes.
  • Knows where to find diversity-related policies and resources.
• Service Excellence/Customer Focus: Ability to meet or exceed service needs and provide excellent service through effective communication.
  • Provides exceptional person-centered service.
  • Manages expectations and enhances service excellence.
  • Communicates clearly and effectively in all mediums.
  • Seeks feedback on communication style and effectiveness.

Responsibilities

• Provide hands-on support and customized job training to individuals with disabilities, as determined by their service plan, including setting employment goals and teaching job skills on-site.
• Support Project Search Interns by teaching essential workplace skills such as task completion, time management, communication, and problem-solving at the host business.
• Work directly with students, business co-workers, families, and district personnel to facilitate training, worksite rotations, and integration into competitive work environments.
• Identify and implement training strategies with the Project Search instructor and host business staff to help individuals adapt to workplace expectations and social interactions.
• Provide coaching, teaching, and mentoring to promote personal independence, individual rights, and self-advocacy.
• Assist individuals in community integration, fostering respectful relationships and engagement in social interactions using natural supports.
• Monitor and mentor individuals in community work sites, providing feedback on work ethic and task performance.
• Collaborate with employers, families, and support teams to develop individualized strategies for long-term job success, including workplace problem-solving.
• Assist individuals with accessing public transportation and provide transportation as assigned, including lifting individuals in and out of vehicles as needed.
• Teach and coach personal care and dressing skills based on individual needs for employment assignments.
• Communicate with the Project Search instructor regarding issues affecting an intern’s success, such as skills training, fading, behavior, or job tasks.
• Serve as a liaison with other Sparc programs, external agencies, employers, and individuals, maintaining a professional demeanor and collaborative environment.
• Maintain a safe and healthy work environment, including providing first aid and emergency health treatment when required.
• Perform duties in alignment with Sparc’s mission and core values, demonstrating professionalism, dependability, and confidentiality.
• Complete other agency-related duties as assigned within the scope of the role.

Requirements

• High school diploma or G.E.D. required.
• Minimum of one (1) year of work experience in a customer service role and/or healthcare setting.
• Minimum of one (1) year of work experience in an independent/autonomous role with minimal supervision.
• Previous experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities, mental health challenges, elderly populations, or in a healthcare setting is preferred.

Skills

• Detail-oriented with excellent time management and organizational skills.
• Proven ability to meet competing deadlines in a dynamic work environment.
• Strong problem-solving and program oversight skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to establish rapport with diverse individuals.
• Ability to work with confidential information while maintaining compliance with HIPAA and other regulations.
• Basic knowledge of computers, electronic timekeeping systems, and software such as Microsoft Word and Outlook.
• Strong recordkeeping skills to document and communicate daily activities.

Other Requirements

• Minimum age of 18 years old.
• Current, valid Illinois Driver’s License.
• Valid proof of automobile insurance.
• Reliable transportation to transport individuals supported.
• Physical ability to assist individuals with mobility, including lifting, pushing, and pulling up to 50 lbs frequently.
• Ability to bend, stoop, twist, climb stairs, walk, and stand for extended periods.
• Ability to physically manage the special needs of individuals, including lifting and transferring as needed.
• Willingness to work a flexible schedule.
• Completion of all mandatory training requirements and staff meetings.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance for full-time staff.
• Group-paid life insurance.
• 10 to 25 paid vacation days annually based on years of service.
• Three paid personal days pro-rated based on start date.
• Minimum of 11 paid holidays, with additional leave time for holidays worked.
• 8 to 12 paid sick days annually based on years of service.
• Retirement savings plan options.
• Pre-tax Healthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Supportive, mission-driven work environment.

Working Conditions

• Work locations include Sparc Work Centers, community employment sites, and Memorial Health facilities.
• Exposure to mild to moderately high noise levels.
• Must follow safety and security procedures for each work site.
• Potential exposure to illnesses, diseases, hazardous chemicals, and physically challenging situations, including bodily fluids and bloodborne or airborne pathogens.