Transition Consultant

ADEC is a non-profit that advocates for and serves individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities so they can live lives full of informed choice and possibility. With over 70 years of service, ADEC offers residential services, day programming, music and recreational therapy, and Community Employment. The Community Employment program is expanding its transition services at Elkhart Community Schools to support students preparing to graduate and explore next steps such as employment, education, or additional services.

About the role

Transition Consultants will work closely with students, parents, educators, employers, and community partners to facilitate successful transitions from school to post-graduation opportunities. This role is ideal for individuals with experience in special education, employment services, or transition services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

Responsibilities

• Conduct job exploration counseling with eligible students through activities such as vocational assessments, discussions of vocational interests, reviews of the local labor market, exploration of non-traditional employment options, and identification of career pathways.
• Provide individualized guidance and support to students in exploring career options, setting goals, and accessing resources and accommodations.
• Coordinate and implement individualized pre-employment transition plans in collaboration with students and their support networks.
• Provide training on workplace readiness, including communication, problem-solving, and independent living skills.
• Help students learn self-advocacy skills.
• Coordinate with schools, vocational rehabilitation agencies, employers, and other community stakeholders to facilitate work-based learning experiences such as job shadows, paid and non-paid internships, informational interviews, apprenticeships, and volunteer opportunities.
• Assist students in navigating the transition from school to post-school environments, including participation in postsecondary education, college fairs and tours, and connecting students to services and supports from other agencies.

Requirements

• Degree in a related field such as social work, special education, or psychology preferred.
• Experience working with individuals with IDD, preferably in a vocational rehabilitation or transition services environment.
• Experience working with youth preferred.
• Strong communication, customer service, and organizational skills.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 403B retirement match.
• Student loan assistance and/or tuition assistance.
• Paid time off, earned upon hire.
• Merit increases.
• Professional development opportunities.