Vocational Services Case Manager - Employment & Skill Development

Support Individual Goals. Coordinate Meaningful Opportunities. Helping someone prepare for employment involves more than identifying a job opportunity. It requires thoughtful planning, individualized support, strong communication, and an understanding of each person's abilities and goals. The Arc of Ocean County is seeking a dedicated Vocational Services Case Manager to join our team in Lakewood, New Jersey. In this full-time position, you'll coordinate vocational services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, helping participants strengthen their employment skills, explore career opportunities, and work toward greater independence. You'll combine person-centered case management with direct participant support, service planning, documentation, and collaboration with families, employers, funding agencies, and community partners. We're looking for a professional who is organized, adaptable, and committed to helping individuals make measurable progress toward their vocational goals. Position Information Location: Lakewood, NJDepartment: Vocational ServicesEmployment Type: Full-TimeClassification: Hourly, Non-ExemptWork Schedule: Monday-FridayHours: 8:00 AM-4:00 PMCompensation: $23.70 per hour Your Role in Vocational Services Develop Individualized Plans and Monitor Progress Create, implement, and maintain Individualized Service Plans (ISPs), Rehabilitation Plans, and other person-centered planning documentsEstablish measurable vocational objectives that reflect each participant's interests, abilities, and support needsProvide ongoing case management, supervision, coaching, and individualized assistance to assigned participantsEvaluate progress toward established goals and recommend appropriate modifications to service plansMaintain organized participant files, detailed case notes, service records, and other required documentationPrepare monthly, quarterly, annual, and additional reports in accordance with agency procedures and funding-source requirements Help Participants Build Workplace Readiness Provide individualized instruction in employment preparation, career exploration, job-related skills, and practical life skillsAssist individuals in identifying vocational programs, community employment opportunities, and potential self-employment optionsProvide direct supervision and support in vocational programs, community worksites, and employment environmentsIdentify and implement reasonable workplace accommodations, task modifications, and individualized strategies that support participant successOffer counseling, crisis intervention, and problem-solving assistance when circumstances require additional supportDemonstrate appropriate workplace conduct while encouraging self-advocacy, independence, and community involvement Coordinate Participant Services and Transitions Facilitate participant intake procedures, assessments, evaluations, and eligibility reviewsMonitor continued eligibility for vocational services and assess changing participant needsCoordinate transfers between programs and transitions to other appropriate services or employment settingsParticipate in production floor time studies and established quality assurance processesAssist with identifying new community employment opportunities and supporting vocational program developmentContribute to grant-related projects and program expansion initiatives as assigned Collaborate With Families, Employers, and Community Partners Establish effective working relationships with participants, families, employers, residential providers, and community organizationsCommunicate with funding agencies and interdisciplinary team members to coordinate individualized vocational supportsParticipate in program audits, licensing inspections, quality reviews, and continuous improvement activitiesPrepare and submit Unusual Incident Reports (UIRs), General Event Reports (GERs), and other required reports within established timelinesMaintain compliance with agency policies and applicable standards established by CARF, DDD, DVRS, DCF, DOE, DOL, and other relevant oversight or funding agencies A Position That Combines Planning With Direct Support As a Vocational Services Case Manager, your work will involve both administrative coordination and direct interaction with the individuals receiving services. One day may involve reviewing progress toward an employment goal, updating an individualized plan, or coordinating with a participant's support team. Another may involve providing workplace coaching, addressing a challenge at a job site, or helping someone prepare for a new vocational opportunity. This variety allows you to apply your professional knowledge while remaining directly involved in the progress of the individuals you support. You'll play an important role in connecting individual goals, practical skill development, and access to meaningful employment experiences. Requirements Qualifications and Professional Requirements Education And Experience Bachelor's degree required in Human Services, Special Education, Psychology, Social Work, or a related fieldMinimum one (1) year of supervisory experience working with individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities Required Skills and Abilities Strong leadership, case management, organizational, and communication skillsAbility to supervise participants effectively while managing multiple assignments and deadlinesAbility to exercise independent judgment and work collaboratively with interdisciplinary teamsStrong attention to detail when preparing service plans, participant documentation, and required reportsAbility to work comfortably in office environments, vocational programs, and community-based employment settingsValid New Jersey driver's license in good standing with no more than five (5) motor vehicle points Background Screening and Training Candidates must successfully complete required pre-employment screenings, including: Criminal History screeningCentral Registry screeningCARI screeningApplicable drug testing requirements Employees must also complete required Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) pre-service training and maintain CPR and First Aid certifications as required. Benefits Benefits That Support Your Career The Arc of Ocean County offers a comprehensive benefits package and opportunities for continued professional development. Health and Insurance Coverage Medical, Dental, and Vision InsuranceFlexible Spending Account (FSA)Low Deductible Medical Plans with $0 Copay OptionsComprehensive Prescription CoverageAdditional Supplemental Benefit Options Financial Benefits and Paid Leave 401(k) Retirement Plan with Agency Matching ContributionsPaid Time Off and Holiday PayEmployee Referral Bonus Program Training and Professional Development Paid On-the-Job TrainingTuition Reimbursement ProgramCareer Advancement Opportunities Ask about our Tuition Reimbursement Program and opportunities for professional growth within The Arc of Ocean County. Help Connect Potential With Progress At The Arc of Ocean County, vocational services are designed to help individuals develop abilities, pursue personal goals, and participate more fully in their communities. As a member of our Vocational Services team, you'll contribute through thoughtful service coordination, individualized instruction, professional advocacy, and ongoing participant support. If you have a background in human services, experience supervising individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities, and an interest in vocational development, we encourage you to apply. Join The Arc of Ocean County as a Vocational Services Case Manager and help individuals take meaningful steps toward employment, independence, and long-term success.