Job Coach/Employment Specialist

Description

Job Summary 

Job Coaches assist people with autism in residential and community settings, modeling and teaching skills, participating in situational assessments, providing transportation, supporting people on jobs, and helping people achieve personal outcomes. Job coaches are part of a professional team responsible for assisting each individual to live a safe, enjoyable life in their community with opportunities to learn and to exercise increasing independence in employment and volunteering. 

General Responsibilities (These may vary based on assignment.) 

Supervision of persons supported. 

· Assists supervisor in training persons supported using job development activities, work related skill activities, and appropriate behavior activities in preparation for employment placement. 

· Documentation of services. 

· Transportation. 

· Crisis Intervention as applicable. 

· Implementation of specialized plans of care. 

· Treat all individuals with dignity and respect. 

· Support individuals to take control of their lives and to make wise decisions that enhance their ability to reach their goals. 

· Support each individual’s existing relationships and increase their networks of friends and acquaintances. 

· Ensure that all individuals are supported to explore and express their interest in community membership. 

· Oversight of health and welfare of the person supported. To ensure that the health and well-being of individuals are met by administering medications (or supporting them to self-medicate) in accordance with policy, providing a well-balanced diet prepared to meet individual needs (when applicable), following all instructions given by health professionals. 

· Complete agency training program in a timely manner and participate in other professional development as required by supervisor. 

· Implement the Independent Support Plan (ISP) action steps and staff instructions as written and at the frequency stated in the plan. 

· Demonstrate accurate data collection procedures and consistent use of described support strategies that promote success. 

· Acts as a professional liaison between employment agencies and Breakthrough and maintains a consistent, cooperative, and working relationship with these agencies and businesses. 

· Maintain all required certifications such as medication administration, vocational rehabilitation training, CPR / First Aid, etc. 

· Attend and participate actively in staff meetings.

· Exhibits self-confidence, a professional appearance, and a team member perspective. 

· Facilitate teamwork between all team members via open communication, sharing of responsibilities and a positive, constructive attitude. 

· Follow all agency policies. 

· Perform additional duties as required or directed. 

· Carry out all responsibilities professionally and efficiently. 

· Work in close harmony with all agency staff in a team environment as well as staff of outside entities. 

· Assisting with Project Development of new initiatives.

· Primary Job Coach for Walgreens REDI (Retail Employees with Disabilities Initiative).

Autism Breakthrough of Knoxville considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or status as a protected veteran. 

Autism Breakthrough of Knoxville is a drug-free workplace and utilizes E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility.

Requirements

College degree preferred. High School Diploma or GED accepted with relevant experience (paid or volunteer). Prior experience should include working with adults and/or children in a training or supportive capacity. 

Job Coaches must: meet all requirements of licensing, regulatory and accrediting entities; possess a valid driver’s license with a good driving record; have a safe vehicle with adequate vehicle insurance; be able to read, write and follow verbal and written instructions; present an objective outlook at all times; present an acceptable and morally upstanding character; be alert and observant during duty hours; be emotionally stable; have a proven record of conscience, responsible behavior (work, volunteer or school history); have no restriction in areas of occasional lifting (50lbs), bending or prolonged standing; possess varied interests and personal connections in the local community; demonstrate a commitment to assisting people with developmental disabilities to participate fully in the life of their community.