Career Program Specialist

UIOWA•Iowa City, IA

12h•Onsite

About The Position

The Career Program Specialist will assist in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of the career development and work-based learning experiences for students participating in the UI REACH (Realizing Educational and Career Hopes) Program. This includes career development activities and assessments, job coaching, and career education instruction. A primary focus of this position will be supporting students in work-based learning experiences through job coaching, employer communication and training, and person-centered career development. The position is a specified term appointment at 100% effort during the school year, approximately August 1 – May 31, with unpaid leave in June and July. Health and Dental benefits continue during leave. The term may be eligible for renewal. The position requires evening and weekend work schedules as assigned and participation in an on-call duty rotation. The location is Lindquist Center, Iowa City, Iowa.

Requirements

A Bachelor's degree in fields such as education, therapeutic recreation, rehabilitation counseling, and mental health or the equivalent combination of education and relevant work experience.
Six months to one year of typical experience.
Demonstrated successful experience working in a team environment by exhibiting effective teamwork and contributing to an overall positive and productive work/team environment.
Ability to work with and build effective relationships with a variety of individuals and groups in a constructive and civil manner while appreciating the unique contributions of individuals.
Ability to effectively communicate (written and verbally); able to communicate effectively with internal and external constituents.
CESP or ACRE certification (must have or acquire within 1 year of employment).
Proficiency in computer software applications.
Demonstrated experience working with individuals with intellectual or development disabilities.
Valid driver's license and ability to meet UI Fleet Safety Standards.

Nice To Haves

Experience with career education instruction, and/or transition planning (e.g., advising, connecting with services, and making referrals).
Experience connecting persons with disabilities with work experiences and supporting students at a job site or work experience.

Responsibilities

Utilize a person-centered approach in career development and internship placements.
Provide individualized job coaching and assessments to support students in the workplace, including task analysis, workplace skills assessments, situational assessments, assistive technology, and accommodations.
Prepare students for entry into the job market through interview practice, resume writing, job search tools, and identifying credentials or certificates to increase marketability.
Assist in the implementation of Career curriculum and courses.
Utilize strength-based and positive behavior supports to create a positive climate in all settings.
Serve on the Student Support Team for assigned students in determining individualized strategies for student success.
Mentor and support UI REACH students, one-to-one and in career areas.
Monitor student progress: communicate progress and/or concerns and issues to the UI REACH administrative team and families.
Communicate regularly with UI REACH parents and/or guardians.
Utilize program approved systems such as Teams, SharePoint, and Salesforce for documentation, data collection, assessments and student reports.
Employ CARF and NCC standards related to employment services and requirements associated with a Comprehensive Transition Program to ensure accreditation conformance and best practices.
Assist students in conflict resolution, problem-solving, and responding to emergencies.
Assist in the admissions process, enrollment, and orientation of UI REACH students.
Participate in professional development and training opportunities to ensure best practices are being implemented.
Assist students in identifying and connecting with employment resources on campus and in the community, or other employment-related student support services or organizations.
Assist in the supervision of student staff as assigned.
Maintain effective working relationships with faculty, staff, students, families, alumni, and the public including campus and community partners, adult service agencies, and other organizations.
Participate in the collection of program and program component outcome data.