Vocational Specialist | Western Psychiatric Hospital

UPMC • Pittsburgh, PA

5h

About The Position

The Center of Autism and Developmental Disorders (CADD) Inpatient Program follows a holistic and multidisciplinary approach to the diagnosis and treatment of individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities and co-occurring mental health conditions.
The Vocational Specialist is responsible for the development, implementation, and documentation of educational, vocational, and adaptive behavior skill training activities to support consumers in the acquisition of skills necessary to increase their level of independent functioning in the community, and to provide intervention as necessary to support individuals capable and interested in advancing to a more independent work setting.

Requirements

• High School diploma/GED required.
• Good writing and communication skills.
• Effective interpersonal skills are essential, as position requires frequent interaction with private sector employers on behalf of the consumers being served.
• Candidate must be able to work independently, maintain flexible hours and provide own transportation to job sites (for Supported Employment duties).
• No one under the age of 18 will be employed.
• If transporting consumers, a valid Driver's License is expected.
• Basic computer literacy.
• Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
• Comprehensive Crisis Management (CCMC)
• Act 31 Child Abuse Reporting with renewal
• Act 33 with renewal
• Act 34 with renewal
• Act 73 FBI Clearance with renewal

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor's degree, preferably in Special Education, Vocational Rehabilitation, Psychology, or other human service field preferred.
• Prior experience in an applied setting working with individuals with Intellectual Disabilities is preferred.
• Experience with individuals with a dual (MH/ID) diagnosis is highly desirable.
• Prior experience in the design, implementation, and evaluation of behaviorally oriented treatment programs, and/or in job development, assessment, training and follow-up services is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Client Planning & Support
• Develop individualized goals and service plans; assess clients and provide guidance.
• Track progress, update plans, and submit required documentation.
• Assist with basic self‑care needs when necessary.
• Job Development & Coaching
• Conduct job analyses and match clients to suitable roles.
• Provide job development, training, and on‑site coaching to ensure successful performance.
• Support career exploration, prepare clients for interviews, and monitor placements.
• Program Operations
• Coordinate transportation and daily schedules.
• Assist with paid work assignments and group coverage as needed.
• Follow all regulatory, program, and supervisory directives.
• Collaboration & Communication
• Maintain communication with families, staff, residential providers, and employers.
• Support Program Specialists with IPPs and quarterly updates.
• Share information and coordinate with all support staff.
• Skill Building & Advancement
• Deliver training to address performance or behavior issues.
• Prepare clients for more independent vocational settings.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED