WFS Employment Specialist (DDA Program)

Spokane, WA – Full-time/Hourly

Wage: $20.00 per hour

Employment benefits: https://discovergoodwill.org/benefits/

About the role

Provide employment services to individuals with disabilities and disadvantages, including evaluation, assessment, training, coaching, placement, and retention services. Supervise and/or provide direct employment services to both funded and unfunded program participants earning commensurate or non-commensurate wages. Driving is required; must have a valid driver’s license, clean driving record, proof of personal auto insurance, and pass a driver record and background check.

Requirements

• High school diploma or general education degree (GED); or 1-3 months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience

Responsibilities

• Assist with development and implementation of programs and services
• Assist with the screening of referrals for appropriate program and service options
• Establish and maintain good working relationships with employers, participants, referral agencies, and all team members
• Follow up on participant progress
• Ensure all paperwork and related activities are current, accurate, and in compliance
• Enter required data into the Participant Case Management database in a timely and accurate manner
• Stay informed of state and federal laws affecting the organization and the people it serves
• Submit data for continuous improvement outcome reporting system
• Attend meetings, conferences, training, and workshops
• Make recommendations on necessary changes in policy or management style
• Track revenue and expenses
• Meet or exceed projected revenue or billable hour goals
• Provide services in accordance with Goodwill policies, CARF standards, and principles of safety
• Assist in developing natural supports for participants
• Assist participants in achieving the highest level of independent functioning
• Facilitate Person-Centered Planning
• Review each participant’s referral information, vocational assessments, psychological profiles, work assets and/or limitations to determine appropriate job match
• Gather data and write reports of participants’ work behaviors and progress
• Perform job and task analysis
• Provide hands-on supervision and support to participants/employees during their learning and performance of job duties
• Act as a job coach and trainer for program participants
• Develop and conduct job-readiness services to ensure participants receive necessary assistance and instruction
• Stay informed of current wage trends
• Assist participants in seeking, obtaining, and retaining transitional and competitive employment
• Develop jobs related to participants’ abilities, limitations, job needs, and desires
• Educate individuals about educational/career planning opportunities
• Model appropriate work behaviors and interpersonal skills
• Assist employer with participant training, support, and job accommodations
• Assist employer in developing natural supports for participants
• Educate employers about the effectiveness, profitability, and benefits of employing individuals with disabilities and/or disadvantages
• Inform business, labor, and the general public about Goodwill services and available potential employees
• Determine the worksite is properly equipped to ensure participant safety
• Work at more than one location with multiple caseloads
• Provide Independent Living services as directed by contract and service plan/authorization
• Follow all policies, procedures, and directives of Goodwill Industries assuring safety of personnel or property
• Work collaboratively with WFS to provide participant services
• Properly wear and maintain all required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
• Maintain agency confidentiality. Violation of confidentiality is cause for immediate dismissal
• Comply with all health, safety, and fire standards and all local, state, and federal regulations (WISHA and OSHA)
• Other duties as assigned