Vocational Support Professional-DORS

Location: Calvert County • Status: Full-time

About the role

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

Responsibilities

• Assists individual(s) to meet employment goals by teaching skills, providing supports, and building on individual strengths and capabilities.
• Supports individual(s) in developing friendships and relationships in employment, volunteer, and recreational settings.
• Provides on-site skill instruction and job training while encouraging natural support systems.
• Maintains frequent, positive contacts with employers, family members, and other key individuals in the lives of people served.
• Communicates professionally with community, business, civic organizations, and service providers on behalf of individuals receiving support.
• Ensures compliance with applicable regulations (e.g., MOSHA, DDA, health, fire).
• Develops Task Analyses and assists in creating adaptive methods for employment, recreational, volunteer, and apprenticeship sites.
• Ensures all activities comply with agency, federal, and state guidelines.
• Provides or assists with personal care and medication administration (as certified).
• Assists in developing employer relationships and identifying community support needs for individuals.
• Empowers individuals to plan, make informed choices, and advocate for themselves.
• Uses effective communication skills to build rapport and adapt to individual communication styles.
• Maintains collaborative relationships with individuals and support teams while adhering to ethical standards (e.g., confidentiality, informed consent).
• Facilitates the implementation of individualized plans based on preferences, needs, and interests.
• Advocates for individuals by addressing barriers to support needs and educating employers/community members.
• Identifies, evaluates, and defuses crisis situations; implements behavior plans as needed.
• Maintains accurate records, submits documentation in a timely manner, and upholds confidentiality standards.
• Complies with agency guidelines, procedures, and practices, incorporating cultural, religious, and disability sensitivity.
• Attends required training initially and ongoing.
• Participates in staff/team meetings, program evaluations, and upholds the agency’s core values.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• 2 years of competitive employment experience.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Knowledge of formal and informal community supports for individuals receiving services.
• Proficiency in computer-based software (e.g., Excel, Word, Access).
• Willingness to participate 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, good driving record, and access to a safe vehicle (must pass agency inspection).
• Ability to work a varied schedule in the tri-county area.
• Must pass a criminal background check mandated by the State of Maryland.
• Understanding of natural supports in service delivery.

Physical Demands

• Occasionally required to stand, walk, sit for long periods, use hands, reach, climb stairs, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
• Must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Requires close vision, distance vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
• Ability to navigate physical environments where individuals receiving services work.

Work Environment

• Rarely exposed to weather conditions unless supporting individuals in outdoor environments.
• Moderate noise level in the work environment.

Pay

$18.50 per hour