Vocational Specialist I

About the role

Easterseals Southern California transforms lives every day by delivering essential services like early childhood programs, autism services, employment and independent living support to more than 29,000 people annually. Through advocacy and education, we break barriers and create opportunities for the one-in-four Americans with disabilities.

Responsibilities

• Guides job seekers through a discovery process to identify their strengths and ideal work conditions
• Develops and executes job placement plans
• Maintains complete and accurate files and client documentation
• Generates employment opportunities for clients through regular employer contacts, public relations, and community interaction
• Follows up on leads with potential employers and develops jobs
• Provides transportation to clients depending upon program design and job location
• Completes paperwork and prepares associated reports
• Performs other duties as assigned

Requirements

• Typically requires HS diploma
• ACRE (Association of Community Rehabilitation Educators) Certification is required
• 1-2 years’ experience in job development with individuals with special needs or vocational rehabilitation; or equivalent combination of training, education and experience to perform the job successfully

Qualifications

• Must be able to multi-task and accept challenges
• Demonstrated proficiency with MS Office Applications (Word, Outlook and Excel)
• Able to interpret and implement policies, procedures, and regulations
• Able to consistently demonstrate good judgment and decision-making skills
• Able to maintain customer service orientation and professionalism in all interactions
• Strong, effective communication skills, both oral and written, to work cooperatively with a variety of individuals and groups, and with all levels of staff and the public
• Able to exercise discretion and maintain a high level of confidentiality to manage sensitive and confidential situations and documentation
• Able to obtain and maintain a criminal record/fingerprint clearance from the Department of Justice and Federal Bureau of Investigation per Easterseals Southern California and/or program requirements
• Able to travel throughout Southern California with reliable transportation, maintain driving record in compliance with Transportation Safety Standards; must have and maintain proper auto insurance and vehicle registration
• Able to pass post-offer medical examination and test for tuberculosis
• Carrying/Lifting: Occasional / 0-10 lbs
• Sitting: Constant / Up to 8 hours per day
• Standing: Occasional / Up to 3 hours per day
• Walking: Occasional / Up to 3 hours per day
• Repetitive Motion/Activity: Keyboard activity, telephone use, writing. Occasional bending, reaching, stooping, kneeling, grasping, and twisting
• Visual Acuity: Ability to view computer monitor and read newsprint with or without corrective lenses
• Travel: Up to 30% of time
• Environmental Exposure: None

Skills

• Passionate about finding job seekers meaningful employment
• Entrepreneurial spirit
• Ability to speak the language of business
• Read subtle cues and adapt conversations accordingly
• Connect with others easily and meaningfully
• Effective communication skills
• Self-motivated with the ability to work well independently to achieve goals

Benefits

• Excellent Monday through Friday work schedule
• No weekends or evenings
• Full-time positions are eligible for medical, dental, & vision, 401k program, tuition reimbursement of up to $5,250 per year, student loan counseling program, 15 days of paid time off, 11 paid holidays, etc.
• Great work culture & work/life balance
• ACRE Certification through on-the-job training