<span>Employment Specialist III – Direct Support Professional</span>

Didlake • Norfolk, VA

390d • $50,960 - $50,960

About The Position

The Employment Specialist III (ES3) plays a crucial role in supporting individuals with disabilities by providing guidance and assistance to enhance their employment skills and community engagement. This position focuses on generating job opportunities, conducting situational assessments, and offering individualized employment services to secure stable employment for clients with significant disabilities. The ES3 also coordinates with various stakeholders, including state Vocational Rehabilitation counselors and local Community Services board Case Managers, to facilitate job placements and provide ongoing support.

Requirements

• BA/BS degree in education, vocational rehabilitation, social work, business, or related field and two years of related experience in employment services and/or supporting individuals with disabilities; or HS diploma and at least 5 years experience in transition or supported employment services.
• Valid driver's license and insurable under Didlake's automobile policy with a minimum of 5 years of licensed driving experience.
• Experience with person-centered planning and providing individualized training and support to individuals with Intellectual and Developmental disabilities.
• Time management skills to independently manage a caseload of up to 40 consumers.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and other computer-based case management systems.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with marketing/public relations.
• Continued professional development in career counseling, positive behavior supports, autism, systematic instruction, and assistive technology.
• Eligibility for QDDP certification.

Responsibilities

• Conduct in-person situational assessments, job development, placement/training, and follow-along support for individuals with significant disabilities.
• Support consumers in obtaining employment through resume writing, application processes, interviewing, and follow-up with potential employers.
• Provide structured, one-to-one support to assist consumers in learning their job and developing natural supports necessary for job stability.
• Monitor and record the progress of consumers toward established goals and objectives through various assessment methods.
• Provide training and guidance to empower consumers to be self-advocates and develop strong natural support on the job.
• Coordinate transportation resources and provide travel training to maximize consumer safety and mobility.
• Conduct job orientation on-site at commercial or government worksites.
• Implement assistive technologies and identify necessary environmental modifications.
• Manage a direct services caseload independently, ensuring varied hours to meet consumer needs.
• Maintain communication with rehabilitative counselors and other referral sources regarding case progression and authorizations.
• Market the Supported Employment Program to generate referrals and identify job opportunities for consumers.

Benefits

• Competitive hourly wage starting at $24.50/hr.
• Opportunities for professional development and training.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Industry: Social Assistance
• Education Level: High school or GED