Vocational Support Professional

Full-time position located in Charles County, paying $18.50 per hour.

About the role

The Vocational Support Professional provides onsite instruction, support, and encouragement to people with developmental or intellectual disabilities as part of a person-centered team.

Responsibilities

• Assist individual(s) to meet employment goals by teaching skills, providing supports, and building on strengths and capabilities.
• Support the development of friendships and relationships in employment, volunteer, and recreational settings.
• Provide on-site skill instruction and job training while encouraging natural support systems.
• Maintain frequent, positive contacts with employers, family members, and other key individuals in the lives of people served.
• Communicate professionally with community, business, civic organizations, and service providers on behalf of individuals receiving support.
• Ensure compliance with applicable regulations (e.g., MOSHA, DDA, health, fire).
• Develop Task Analyses and adaptive methods as needed for employment, recreational, volunteer, and apprenticeship sites.
• Ensure all activities comply with agency, federal, and state guidelines.
• Provide or assist with personal care and medication administration (as certified).
• Assist in developing employer relationships and identifying community support needs.
• Empower individuals to plan, make informed choices, and advocate for themselves.
• Use effective communication skills to build rapport and adapt to individual communication styles.
• Maintain collaborative professional relationships with individuals and their support teams, adhering to ethical standards.
• Facilitate the implementation of individualized plans based on preferences, needs, and interests.
• Advocate for individuals by addressing barriers to support needs and educating employers/community members.
• Identify, evaluate, and defuse crisis situations, implementing behavior plans as necessary.
• Maintain accurate records, submit documentation in a timely manner, and uphold confidentiality standards.
• Comply with all agency guidelines, procedures, and practices, incorporating cultural, religious, and disability sensitivity.
• Attend and complete all required initial and ongoing training.
• Participate in staff and team meetings, program evaluations, and uphold the agency’s core values.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• 2 years of competitive employment experience.
• Clear and concise oral and written communication skills.
• Knowledge of formal and informal community supports.
• Proficiency in computer-based software (e.g., Excel, Word, Access).
• Willingness to work in a team environment and learn crisis management techniques.
• Ability to analyze information and collaborate with employees, employers, and community members.
• Valid driver’s license with a good driving record and access to a safe, inspected vehicle for transporting individuals.
• Ability to work a varied schedule in the tri-county area.
• Ability to pass a criminal background check mandated by the State of Maryland.
• Understanding of natural supports and their role in service delivery.

Physical demands

• Occasional standing, walking, sitting for long periods, and use of hands to handle objects or controls.
• Occasional climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling.
• Ability to talk, hear, taste, or smell.
• Occasional lifting and/or moving up to 50 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required: close vision, distance vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
• Ability to navigate physical environments where individuals receiving services work.

Work environment

• Rare exposure to weather conditions, depending on the work environment of individuals served.
• Moderate noise level in the work environment.
• Drug-free workplace.