Employment First Specialist (HCT III) - Grand Junction Regional Center Western Slope

State of Colorado•Grand Junction, CO

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Employment First Specialist is responsible for providing individualized employment support services to residents with developmental disabilities, with the goal of securing and sustaining competitive, integrated employment. This role includes job coaching, skills training, and collaboration with interdisciplinary teams to develop and implement vocational plans tailored to each individual’s strengths and interests. The specialist ensures a safe, supportive work environment while promoting independence, dignity, and community inclusion. Additionally, as an Employment First Specialist, you can expect to: Deliver individualized job coaching and skills training to residents with developmental disabilities at community-based work sites Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to assess residents’ vocational interests, strengths, and support needs Develop and implement formal and informal employment plans aligned with each resident’s Service Plan (SP) Modify job tasks and environments as needed to promote independence and job success Track and document all service hours, support activities, and progress using designated data systems (e.g., Therap) Maintain ongoing communication with employers to ensure satisfaction and address any concerns related to resident performance Promote gradual worker independence by reducing on-site support as appropriate Provide transportation or support in learning transportation skills as needed for job access Assist with behavior management, medication administration, and personal care during job support hours when necessary Uphold safety, dignity, and rights of all residents at job sites, intervening when necessary to prevent harm

Requirements

High school diploma or General Education Diploma (GED)
Two (2) years of experience in an occupational field related to working to the work assigned, such as working with a population with intellectual and developmental disabilities
Must possess a valid, in-good-standing LPT (Licensed Psychiatric Technician) license OR must possess and/or obtain Qualified Medication Administration Person (QMAP) within three months of hire date.
State of Colorado residency at the time of application (unless otherwise identified in the posting), and residency within the state throughout the duration of employment in this position.
Valid, non-restricted Colorado Driver’s License or a non-restricted U.S. Driver's License for positions within 30 miles of the CO state border. Out-of-State Driver’s License holders must obtain a valid, non-restricted Colorado Driver’s License within 30 days of employment start date.
Must be 18 years or older.

Nice To Haves

Dependable, adaptable, and responsible
Relevant years of state service experience.

Responsibilities

Deliver individualized job coaching and skills training to residents with developmental disabilities at community-based work sites
Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to assess residents’ vocational interests, strengths, and support needs
Develop and implement formal and informal employment plans aligned with each resident’s Service Plan (SP)
Modify job tasks and environments as needed to promote independence and job success
Track and document all service hours, support activities, and progress using designated data systems (e.g., Therap)
Maintain ongoing communication with employers to ensure satisfaction and address any concerns related to resident performance
Promote gradual worker independence by reducing on-site support as appropriate
Provide transportation or support in learning transportation skills as needed for job access
Assist with behavior management, medication administration, and personal care during job support hours when necessary
Uphold safety, dignity, and rights of all residents at job sites, intervening when necessary to prevent harm

Benefits

PERA Defined Benefit Plan or PERA Defined Contribution Plan plus 401(k) and 457 plans
Medical and dental health plans
Employer-supplemented Health Savings Account
Paid life insurance
Short- and long-term disability coverage
11 paid holidays per year, plus vacation and sick leave
State of Colorado Employee BenefitHub Resource Center
Employee Wellness program
Excellent work-life programs, such as flexible schedules, training and more
Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.