Occupational Communications Specialist (American Sign Language)

Riseorporated•Fairbault, MN

26d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Occupational Communications Specialist works for the Minnesota Employment Center for People who are Deaf, DeafBlind or Hard of Hearing, a program of Rise, Inc. The position provides pre-placement, job placement, training, and long-term employment support to Minnesotans with hearing loss who may also face other barriers to employment. Hiring is at level 1 or 2, depending on qualifications. The role offers a hybrid work option and requires reliable transportation and community travel for up to 75% of the time. The position maintains a caseload of 12–14 people and uses electronic case-management systems to track and document services and billing. Rise is a nonprofit providing employment, housing, and life-enrichment services. The organization describes its workplace as mission-driven, supportive of learning and growth, and focused on helping people achieve personal goals. Rise values person-centered services, diversity, and an inclusive workplace.

Requirements

Advanced American Sign Language communication skills, demonstrated by an SLPI score of Advanced Plus or willingness and ability to work toward that goal.
Knowledge and understanding of Deaf Culture.
Pass the Department of Human Services background check (Rule 11).
Valid driver's license.
Pass a Motor Vehicle Record background check.
Ability to travel daily to meet people served and address business needs using a personal vehicle; mileage is reimbursed.
Ability to provide virtual support as needed and have access to high-speed home internet.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of job-training practices for people who are Deaf, DeafBlind, or Hard of Hearing.
Familiarity with supporting individuals who face additional barriers to employment.
Degree in human services, vocational services, or social services.
Knowledge of supported-employment systems and community-based training program models.

Responsibilities

Support people served in obtaining and maintaining fulfilling, competitive jobs.
Provide individualized job-placement services, including regular meetings to develop job-seeking skills, prepare resumes and cover letters, and practice interviewing.
Cultivate competitive job opportunities with businesses and employers in the community.
Provide ongoing support to help individuals succeed in new jobs and build relationships with employers.
Adapt communication style to match the communication preferences of the person served.
Train individuals to meet employer expectations, including appropriate workplace behaviors and production standards.
Help people served manage symptoms at the work site.
Advocate with employers on behalf of individuals regarding job accommodations.
Maintain a caseload of 12–14 people and track and document services and billing through electronic case-management systems.
Partner with schools and transition programs to provide pre-employment instruction, career exploration, and job-readiness curriculum.
Become familiar with resources, services, tools, and technology that can help individuals and employers navigate communication and other social barriers.
Use person-centered thinking and motivational interviewing to engage people served.
Apply a trauma-informed approach to services.

Benefits

Medical insurance, with single-employee coverage costing less than $90 per month.
Dental insurance costing less than $17 per month.
Vision insurance.
401(k) with a 100% vested employer match.
Rise-sponsored basic life and AD&D insurance.
Voluntary life, short-term disability, and long-term disability insurance.
Flexible Spending Account (FSA).
Tuition reimbursement and Rise-sponsored training.
Employee Assistance Program.
Paid Time Off starting at 16 days in the first year, plus two floating holidays and 48 hours of ESST per year.
Employee resource groups, including DEI, LGBTQ+, and recognition groups.
Professional development and career-advancement opportunities.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness-eligible employer; qualified student loan balances may be forgiven after 120 covered payments.
Mileage reimbursement for use of a personal vehicle.