Job Coach ( Supported Employment )

About the Company

EP!C is comprised of families, staff, volunteers, and community members working together to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families with unique educational, residential, employment, and clinical programs tailored to each individual's abilities and needs. We began as a small, community-organized network of Peoria families in 1950 who took an innovative approach to disability by emphasizing ability over disability. We have since grown to serve individuals of all levels of ability residing across 15 counties in Illinois from finding funding to the best program and service. When our employees succeed, the people we support succeed. At EP!C, you'll have the opportunity to lead an incredible team while making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities every single day.

About The Role

EP!C is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Community Employment Specialist to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in achieving meaningful and successful employment within their communities. Under the supervision of the Director of Community Placement, this role is responsible for providing individualized job training, coaching, and support to individuals working in community-based employment settings. The Community Employment Specialist will partner with individuals, employers, supervisors, and members of the individual's support team to promote independence, workplace success, and long-term employment. This position plays an important role in helping individuals transition from supported or sheltered environments into integrated community employment while developing natural workplace supports and promoting person-centered outcomes.

Responsibilities

• Provide individualized instruction, training, and coaching to assist individuals in developing and maintaining the skills necessary for successful community employment
• Provide direct training and instruction to individuals to meet employer expectations, job requirements, and workplace standards
• Monitor work schedules, attendance, punctuality, and overall job performance
• Provide transportation to and from community employment sites as needed
• Serve as a positive role model and advocate for the individuals supported
• Support individuals during the transition into integrated community employment by encouraging positive relationships with co-workers and supervisors
• Maintain regular communication with community employers to address concerns, resolve conflicts, strengthen relationships, and develop natural workplace supports
• Work collaboratively with supervisors to develop and implement individualized written task analyses for each community job site
• Assess job sites and identify health, safety, accessibility, and support needs, implementing corrective measures when appropriate
• Promote independence, self-sufficiency, and active participation in the workplace
• Maintain regular communication with identified members of the Individualized Development Team (IDT) to discuss individual progress, strengths, needs, and employment objectives
• Follow all applicable regulatory requirements, including Rule 50 and Illinois Department of Human Services Rules 115, 116, 119, 120, and other relevant guidelines
• Maintain confidentiality and demonstrate professional and ethical conduct in all interactions
• As a mandated reporter, ensure all allegations of abuse and neglect are reported in accordance with applicable requirements
• Perform other duties as assigned

Documentation & Fiscal Responsibilities

• Utilize appropriate forms to assess and document individual progress toward acquiring and maintaining employment-related skills
• Accurately document job coaching hours and individual progress and submit documentation within required timelines
• Maintain accurate records of individual wages and work schedules and submit required information to supervisors on a monthly basis
• Ensure all program and employment documentation meets agency, funding, and regulatory requirements

Requirements

• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing
• Ability to assess physical environments based on individual health and safety needs and implement appropriate corrective measures
• Strong understanding of person-centered practices and individualized support
• Ability to work effectively with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities
• Valid driver's license and ability to use a personal vehicle to provide transportation as needed
• Ability to work independently while maintaining effective communication with supervisors, employers, individuals served, and members of the support team
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Ability to manage multiple responsibilities and priorities in a community-based environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD)
• Experience in community employment, job coaching, supported employment, or residential/community-based services
• Knowledge of Illinois DHS regulations, including Rule 50 and Rules 115, 116, 119, and 120
• Knowledge of Person-Centered Planning
• Familiarity with Council on Quality and Leadership (CQL) principles and practices
• Experience working with community employers and developing natural workplace supports
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office
• Strong analytical, project management, and problem-solving skills

Equivalent education and experience may be considered.

Physical Requirements

• Frequent walking and sitting
• Regular reaching, grasping, and standing
• Ability to perform physical activities associated with office, community, and employment settings
• Ability to operate general office equipment, including a multi-line phone, printer, copier, fax machine, and personal computer
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
• Ability to safely navigate and work within a variety of community employment environments

Why Join EP!C?

At EP!C, you'll have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities by helping them build independence, develop valuable skills, and achieve their employment goals. When our employees succeed, the people we support succeed.

Benefits & Perks

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
• 403(b) Retirement Plan
• Paid Time Off
• Employee Fitness Center
• Discounted Gym Membership
• Professional Development
• Continuing Education Opportunities
• Career Advancement
• Supportive Leadership Team