Job Coach/Employment Specialist

About the role

This full-time salaried exempt position collaborates with highly skilled professionals and experienced staff to develop, plan, implement, and assess programs for transition-aged youth and adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other developmental disabilities at Els for Autism Foundation in Jupiter, Florida.

Responsibilities

• Instruction:
  • Create groupings and natural support systems to fit the needs of each participant (e.g., employee mentors, pairs, one-on-one)
  • Utilize explicit and systematic instruction (e.g., preview, breaking down tasks, building on skills, review)
  • Apply strategies based on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) within instructional and behavior management procedures
  • Develop visual and communication supports for program participants and complete referrals for clinical services (BCBA, SLP, MHC) as needed
  • Use a system of least prompts and fading strategies during skill acquisition, practice, and maintenance
• Planning:
  • Conduct environmental assessments of worksites and develop visual supports for participants prior to their first day of employment
  • Collaborate with supervisors and other professionals to conduct applicant interviews, situational assessments, and orientation
• Collaboration:
  • Work with host worksite staff and management to ensure program fidelity
  • Provide sensitivity training to employer partners and staff on effective strategies for supporting employees with autism and related disabilities prior to client start
  • Ensure employers and worksite staff take responsibility for onboarding, supervision, provision of accommodations, and ongoing communication with client/employee
  • Serve as a liaison between participants, their families, Els for Autism staff, and host worksite
• Job Placement:
  • Actively assist in acquiring paid employment leads in the community
  • Match participants to available positions based on their Individualized Plan for Employment
  • Assist participants with resume writing, completing job applications, interviews, orientation, and on-the-job support

Requirements

• Associate's Degree in Education, Rehabilitation, Applied Behavior Analysis, or related field
• Minimum 2 years of experience teaching/coaching individuals with ASD and other developmental disabilities
• Valid Florida Driver's License and reliable transportation
• Experience securing paid employment opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities

Professionalism

• Dress code is comfortable business casual attire
• Display a high standard of integrity and conduct while serving as a representative and ambassador for Els for Autism, its mission, and the vision of the Els family

Work Environment

• Schedule is Monday–Friday with occasional evening and weekend work in support of clients
• Includes commuting between worksite locations in support of clients
• Office work is completed on campus and may include shared office space
• May be responsible for transporting clients as needed to community-based locations using a company van