Employment Specialist
About The Position
Vista Autism Services is hiring an Employment Specialist to help adults with autism and other intellectual and developmental disabilities find and maintain meaningful jobs in the community. The role supports people in pursuing work that reflects their strengths, interests, and personal goals, and is part of Vista’s Adult Employment Services team. The Employment Specialist helps job seekers prepare for interviews, complete applications, learn job tasks, and build confidence and independence through coaching at job sites. The role also develops relationships with local businesses, identifies suitable job opportunities, matches people with workplaces, and supports employers during onboarding and as needs arise. Regular follow-up helps ensure each placement remains a good fit. The position includes documenting progress and services, coordinating schedules, transportation, and communication with families and team members, and safeguarding the safety and dignity of individuals in all settings. It is a community-based role with travel throughout the service region. Vista provides paid training, including support toward ACRE certification. The schedule is full-time, 40 hours per week, primarily Monday through Friday during daytime hours.
Requirements
- High school diploma or GED.
- Valid Pennsylvania driver’s license and reliable transportation.
- Ability to travel within the service region.
- Basic computer skills for documentation.
- Ability to complete required training provided by Vista.
- Ability to meet the physical demands of a community-based role.
- Successful completion of required background checks and health screenings.
- Compassion, patience, and respect for others.
- Belief in dignity and person-centered support.
- Comfort communicating with job seekers and business leaders.
- Calm, solution-focused approach when challenges arise.
- Organization and ability to manage multiple schedules and needs.
- Energy and comfort working in the community rather than behind a desk.
Nice To Haves
- Experience supporting individuals with disabilities.
- Familiarity with local employers.
- Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
- ACRE or CESP training or certification; Vista provides training toward ACRE certification.
- Experience in education, customer service, hospitality, retail, coaching, human services, or caregiving.
Responsibilities
- Learn each job seeker’s strengths, interests, and employment goals.
- Help job seekers prepare for interviews, complete applications, and learn job tasks.
- Provide coaching and encouragement at job sites to build confidence and independence.
- Recognize achievements and support each person’s growth at their own pace.
- Build relationships with local businesses and identify suitable job opportunities.
- Match job seekers with workplaces where they can thrive.
- Guide employers as they onboard employees and provide problem-solving support as needed.
- Check in regularly to ensure employment remains a good fit for the employee and the business.
- Keep clear, timely notes on progress and services provided.
- Coordinate schedules, transportation, and communication with families and team members.
- Ensure individuals’ safety, dignity, and success in all settings.
Benefits
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
- Generous paid time off and paid holidays.
- Retirement plan with employer contribution.
- Paid travel time and mileage reimbursement.
- Paid training and professional development.
- Supportive, mission-driven workplace.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
