Transition Specialist (School To Adult)

PA Connecting Communities • Pittsburgh, PA

3d

About The Position

PA Connecting Communities (PACC) is seeking compassionate and dedicated Transition Specialists to support students with intellectual disabilities as they move from school to adult life. The position generally provides services Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., working individually with students in school and community settings. The role supports young adults ages 14–21 in developing daily living, social, vocational, and independent living skills identified in their IEPs.

The Transition Specialist develops individualized transition plans and helps students prepare for successful post-secondary adult life. This includes supporting community-based instruction and school-to-work experiences, and providing guidance and resources related to post-secondary education, vocational training, and employment opportunities. The role also works with families, educators, administrators, employers, and agency representatives to support student transitions and outcomes.

PACC’s mission is to empower individuals with special needs and/or needing accommodations through information and opportunities that improve quality of life. Its programs promote friendship, the arts, community participation, inclusion, and competitive employment. Its vision includes vocational training, social and cultural activities, recreational and fitness opportunities, and remedial or academic classes for the disability community. PACC follows the principle of “Everyday Lives.”

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Education, Psychology, Social Work, or a related field with relevant experience; or an associate’s degree in these fields plus at least five years of supervisory or management experience in Transition Services.
• At least one year of recent successful teaching experience at the secondary level.
• Background in special education and secondary-level transition practices.
• At least 18 years of age.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Reliable vehicle available for daily use to transport individuals into the community.
• Current vehicle registration, insurance, and inspection.
• Outstanding organizational and communication skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with diverse groups and individuals.
• Thorough knowledge of IDEA, transition planning, community-based programs, and agency linkages.
• Smartphone and computer literacy.
• Ability to pass a Pennsylvania criminal background check, Child Abuse Clearance, and FBI check.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement individualized transition plans aligned with each student’s IEP goals.
• Provide direct instruction and support in daily living, social, vocational, and independent living skills.
• Collaborate with families, educators, administrators, employers, and agency representatives to support successful transitions.
• Facilitate student participation in community-based instruction and school-to-work experiences.
• Provide guidance and resources related to post-secondary education, vocational training, and employment opportunities.
• Monitor student progress, collect data, and adjust transition plans as needed.
• Communicate regularly with parents, school personnel, and adult service providers regarding student goals and outcomes.
• Ensure compliance with IDEA regulations and best practices in secondary transition planning.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time