Employment Specialist

Allied Community Care•Frederick, MD

About The Position

The Employment Specialist provides one-on-one support to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) as they navigate the employment process. The role includes assessing job readiness, developing individualized career plans, and connecting people with employment opportunities aligned with their skills, interests, and goals. It combines hands-on support and advocacy with personalized activities that promote learning, independence, and community integration. The position supports individuals through employment readiness, job development, skills preparation, on-the-job coaching, documentation, and collaboration with their support networks. Work takes place in virtual and community settings, including client homes and work sites, with frequent local travel. This is a part-time position with the possibility of full-time. Compensation is $20 per hour.

Requirements

At least an associate degree and 5 or more years of relevant experience in IDD services, case management, or housing support.
Experience or knowledge in workforce development, vocational rehabilitation, job placement, or career counseling.
Knowledge of local labor market trends and community employment resources.
Valid Maryland driver’s license with a clean driving record and reliable transportation.
Complete and pass required training, including ACRE and/or CESP certification, and renew training as required.

Nice To Haves

Background in on-site job coaching, workplace accommodations, and employment retention support.
ACRE (Association of Community Rehabilitation Educators) and/or CSEP (Certified Employment Support Professional) certification; the posting identifies CSEP as preferred.
Bilingual capabilities.
Background in disability advocacy or services.
Experience with assistive technology and communication devices.
Knowledge of evidence-based practices in skill development and community integration.
Frederick, MD.

Responsibilities

Maintain an active assignment list of individuals receiving services through DDA who are seeking competitive employment.
Assess each person’s strengths, needs, preferences, support systems, employment interests, readiness, barriers, and vocational goals.
Develop individualized employment plans and professional vocational profiles in collaboration with the people supported.
Identify and negotiate work experiences, including informational interviews, job shadows, situational assessments, and job tryouts.
Identify job openings that align with clients’ skills, interests, and career goals.
Build and maintain relationships with employers, community organizations, and workforce partners; attend community events, job fairs, and networking opportunities to promote the agency and expand employment opportunities.
Advocate for individuals with IDD and help negotiate job offers and accommodations when needed.
Support resume writing, job applications, and career exploration; conduct mock interviews, role-playing, and workplace etiquette training.
Provide travel training to support independence in commuting to and from work.
Deliver on-site and off-site job coaching; provide systematic instruction to teach job tasks, build workplace routines, and promote independence.
Collaborate with employers on support fade-out plans and support clients in developing positive workplace relationships with coworkers and supervisors.
Complete required documentation, including daily notes, attendance records, employment forms, and progress updates; track outcomes such as placements, retention, and skill development.
Prepare and submit reports for internal teams, DDA, and other stakeholders.
Participate in internal and external meetings, communicate with team members in each person’s support network, and complete required training and ongoing professional development.