Lead, Employment Consultant

Best Buddies International • Miramar, FL

117d • $46,000 - $48,000

About The Position

The primary responsibility of the Lead, Employment Consultant is to function as a coach, mentor, and vocational support professional working one-to-one with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). This includes supporting participants through the job seeking process, onboarding and ongoing training while managing essential documentation, compliance requirements, and employer relationships to foster successful and sustainable employment. The Lead, Employment Consultant empowers individuals to achieve meaningful employment by providing personalized guidance, skill development, and advocacy. This position supports individuals with IDD as they navigate barriers, maximize their potential, and secure opportunities that enhance their independence and overall quality of life. In addition, the Lead, Employment Consultant steers expansion plans for their office's Jobs program- identifying new funding opportunities, serving as the main point of contact for funding agencies, national employer partners (if applicable), and building out long-term plans for growth and staffing.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree and minimum 2 years of professional experience, OR minimum 5 years relevant experience.
• Ability to engage comfortably with individuals with IDD.
• Strong interpersonal skills to engage and support multiple relationships.
• Basic skills in public speaking, group facilitation, and delivering engaging presentations.
• Familiarity with Office 365 and basic understanding of social media platforms.
• Strong writing ability, attention to detail, and proficiency in project and time management.
• Capable of working autonomously while collaborating effectively.
• Willingness to travel frequently within the local area.
• Access to an automobile with applicable insurance or reliable transportation.
• Employment is contingent upon state accreditation and federal suitability clearance.

Nice To Haves

• Best Buddies program experience.

Responsibilities

• Utilize a person-centered approach supporting individuals in job searching efforts in industries and opportunities that match their skills and interests.
• Provide support during orientation, onboarding and throughout the early stages of training for job placements.
• Develop and maintain positive relationships with individuals, guardians, families, Vocational Rehabilitation counselors, advocates, and employers.
• Identify natural supports within the individual’s workplace to provide additional support.
• Encourage and educate individuals, parents, and guardians about career opportunities and benefits of programs like Ticket to Work.
• Guide participants and families in navigating Social Security issues and offer referrals to local Work Incentives and Planning and Assistance.
• Maintain regular communication with employers advocating for participants' rights to equal treatment and fair wages.
• Maintain detailed and timely documentation of participant interactions, progress, and outcomes.
• Provide individuals with travel training and assistance with public transportation.
• Understand and educate participants on workplace safety guidelines.
• Encourage participants to explore other Best Buddies programs.
• Participate in various initiatives with the National Jobs team to highlight the Jobs Program.
• Collaborate with the Jobs team to expand employment opportunities.
• Represent the organization at local networking events.
• Facilitate connections between development staff and potential funding opportunities.
• Assume full responsibility for a caseload of successfully employed job participants.
• Complete required paperwork in a timely and organized manner.
• Attend regular staff meetings to discuss referrals and updates.
• Engage in professional development opportunities.

Benefits

• Comprehensive and generous benefits program including financial security, health and wellness, and time off.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Industry: Religious, Grantmaking, Civic, Professional, and Similar Organizations
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree