Job Coach

Helen Keller Services•Sands Point, NY

15h•Onsite

About The Position

Helen Keller Services (HKS) is seeking a Job Coach to support its Summer Youth Vocational Program (SYVP). This role is crucial for assisting transition-age youth (16-24) who are DeafBlind. The Job Coach will provide individualized guidance and hands-on support to help participants gain work experience, develop workplace readiness skills, and build confidence for competitive integrated employment. The program runs from July 6th to July 31st, Monday through Friday, from 8:00 AM to 3:45 PM.

Requirements

Minimum of an Associate’s degree required; Bachelor’s degree preferred in Special Education or in the education of individuals who are DeafBlind, blind, deaf or have intellectual disabilities or related field, or active enrollment in an accredited program, with experience working with individuals who are Deafblind or with combined hearing and vision loss.
Must have strong interpersonal and communication skills; ability to adapt to diverse communication methods (ASL, tactile sign, spoken language, etc.).
Basic knowledge of vocational rehabilitation principles and Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) under WIOA.
Must demonstrate patience, flexibility, and creative problem-solving, with a strong commitment to empowering youth through hands-on, experiential learning.
Knowledge of MS Office and Internet required.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with individuals who are DeafBlind or with combined vision and hearing loss preferred.
ASL proficiency preferred.
Familiarity with assistive technology and accessibility tools to support inclusive participation highly preferred.

Responsibilities

Supervise and mentor participants at assigned work sites.
Provide on-the-job training, modeling, and feedback to reinforce workplace expectations.
Assist participants in practicing job tasks, problem-solving, and adapting to workplace culture.
Support participants in developing time management, punctuality, and professional behavior.
Facilitate communication strategies, including assistive technology and accommodations.
Encourage self-advocacy by guiding participants to express needs and request accommodations.
Participate in daily planning sessions, activity debriefs, and group classes.
Reinforce learning from STEAM projects, adaptive sports, and advocacy workshops.
Promote independence by coaching participants in executive functioning skills (e.g., organizing schedules, planning meals).
Work closely with HKNC staff, vocational rehabilitation counselors, and employers.
Document participant progress, challenges, and successes for program reports.
Communicate effectively with team members to ensure individualized support plans are implemented.
Responsible for other duties as may be assigned or requested by his/her immediate supervisor and/or the Director of the Department.