Employment Specialist-Direct Support Professional

Job Overview The employment specialist for Warren County Pathfinders will provide services necessary to assist individuals with disabilities in obtaining and maintaining employment within the community in integrated work settings. The incumbent will work with individuals who have barriers to employment to identify job interests, evaluate and assess work skills, develop job and non-job specific skills, and provide needed workplace support based upon individual preferences, skills, and job duties. The Employment Specialist will develop relationships with employers to identify jobs and to support the successful transition of job seekers into employment. The Employment Specialist will provide on-going supports as needed to facilitate employment retentions; and will provide essential communication with the director of employment services and service coordinators, to facilitate access to and the coordination of services necessary for successful employment outcomes. The Employment Specialist will assist the Director of Employment Services in the area of program coordination and improvement, carrying out targeted initiatives and projects in the areas of but not limited to, career planning, pre-vocational services, job development, and supported employment. The Employment Specialist will be required to meet a quota of 85% billable time during daily working hours. This position requires the Employment Specialist to be available to work a varied number of hours up to 30 hours per week, this could include days, evenings, and weekends, as needed, to support individuals with meeting employment goals. Duties

• Provide ongoing support to program participants, including career planning, job development, prevocational services, and supported employment, in accordance with the individuals' needs.
• Organize/participate in meetings with job seeking participants and networking groups for job seekers.
• Participating in and supporting all members of the individual's support circle and/or team to work toward successful employment outcomes; develop and maintain relationships with a range of state and community agencies, as well as family members and other support providers; attending job seekers team meetings.
• Collect data and maintain records as required by Warren County Pathfinders, State and Local Laws and referring agencies; maintain records regarding but not limited to employment history, progress, learning styles including case notes, time logs, and submitting documentation according to timelines dictated by state contract.
• Maintain certifications required by Warren County Pathfinders and State of Missouri
• Provide leadership within the Employment Services team, demonstrate best practices, provide support and direction to less experienced staff; serve as a mentor to participants; represent programs on selected committees, as needed; assist the Program Supervisor in areas related to program improvement and coordination.
• Perform other duties as assigned. Aware and familiar with the agency policy and procedures, understands the day-to-day functions, discipline process, benefits etc
• The employment specialist will maintain confidentiality.
• The employment specialist will maintain calendars with office hours, meetings, and events. There will be open communication with the immediate supervisor about any changes to the work schedule prior to the changes. This can be done via email, text, etc.
• It is preferred, per policy, to have a two-week notice for vacation requests to be submitted.

However, it is understood that things come up at the last minute. When your hours in the office change, these changes need to be approved by your immediate supervisor and the calendar updated. We want to refrain from taking advantage of the flexible schedule so please ensure the importance of last-minute changes. We know and understand emergencies cannot be prevented.

• The employment specialist must maintain full coverage vehicle insurance while employed with Warren County Pathfinders.
• The employment specialist is familiar with the agency policy and procedures along with a chain of command and follows as directed.
• The employment specialist promotes and maintains a positive environment and relationships with co-workers, community support, and those we support. Qualifications
• Required to pass a drug test; Potential employees must pass a pre-employment drug screening at the site chosen by Warren County Pathfinders
• Required to pass the class E drivers test within 30 days after employment; Potential Employees must have a driving record completed and approved before employment is offered.
• Required to pass certifications through Warren County Pathfinders within 180 days after employment.
• Required to pass background check; No individual will be hired before his/her background and credentials have been verified.
• High School Diploma or equivalent is required after one year of employment.
• A flexible Schedule is Required.
• Reliable Transportation is Required.
• Ability to relate to and establish rapport with a wide range of individuals.
• Ability to bend, reach, lift, stand, for long periods of time, to provide support to program participants.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong commitment to customer service.
• Previous experience in rehabilitation, special education, or related field is preferred.
• Prior volunteer, internship, or work experience in providing employment services and/or support to individuals with significant disabilities (i.

e.: individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities and mental illness) is preferred.

Pay:

From $18.00 per hour Expected hours: No more than 30.0 per week

Benefits:

Flexible schedule Loan forgiveness Mileage reimbursement Military leave On-the-job training Paid time off Referral program

Work Location:

In person