Project Search Skills Trainer

About the Role

This position supports interns in the Project SEARCH program, assisting with skill development, job matching, and employment preparation during the school year (August–June) and providing follow-up support during non-school hours.

Responsibilities

During School Session

• Support interns in the current Project SEARCH class, including daily data collection on skills required for internships and matching interns with departments.
• Systematically teach essential tasks, duties, and core skills to interns at the start of each internship, checking for accuracy and providing necessary accommodations.
• Create visual or written task lists for each intern outlining all required job tasks.
• Complete a task analysis for each internship, breaking down tasks into individual steps.
• Build natural support at internship sites to reduce time spent with each intern as core skills develop.
• Check in and communicate regularly with department mentors regarding intern progress, collaborating to teach new skills as interns master essential functions.
• Collect quarterly data on student performance related to transition goals, vocational IEP goals, and DORS progress reports.
• Assist with interview preparation, including mock interviews and job trials for internship matching.
• Update and record notes on job development planning for each intern during employment planning meetings.
• Coordinate travel training with interns and apply for community-based transportation options for post-program use.
• Work with Project SEARCH staff to assess student skills and complete the Vocational Fit Assessment at the beginning of the school year and during each internship.
• Conduct job development and job search activities, including business tours, in coordination with the Project SEARCH Manager.
• Update resumes with interns at the conclusion of each internship during workshop week.
• Outreach to local employers to learn about business needs and describe program support and intern strengths.
• Assist with onboarding and new employee training if an intern is hired during the school year.

During Non-School Session Hours

• Collaborate with Planning Specialists, Employment Manager, families, and persons supported.
• Utilize VR funding from DORS for job development, including short-term job coaching and interviewing assistance.
• Develop positions for interns who are unemployed at the end of the program.
• Provide follow-along support to interns hired during the school year.
• Attend all PCP meetings and complete required documentation (e.g., monthly attendance, ICM documentation).
• Transition persons supported to another Employment Specialist if competitive employment is not secured before DDA funding begins.

Requirements

• High School diploma or equivalent required.
• Two or more years of related experience and/or training.
• Excellent communication skills (oral and written) and the ability to present information effectively in one-on-one and small group settings.
• Comfortable identifying and incorporating new technology solutions.
• Calm under pressure, positive, team-oriented attitude.
• Committed to The Arc of Howard County’s mission.
• Proficiency in MS Word, Excel, and Outlook.