Employment Specialist

Employment Specialist

Location: Ottawa, KS. Will also cover Osage City, KS; Burlington, KS

$16.00 per hour

Full Time, Days, but hours will flex with the IDD clients schedule including evenings and weekend.

Job Summary:

The Employment Specialist will work directly with individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilites (IDD) to

provide guidance, skill development, and on-the-job support. The goal is to help participants

secure and retain employment in the community, fostering independence and personal growth.

This role requires patience, creativity, and a passion for making a difference. Additionally, the

position includes administrative responsibilities such as reporting, billing, and maintaining

accurate documentation to ensure the smooth operation of the program. The role also requires

flexibility in scheduling, as well as travel between three counties: Coffey, Osage, and Franklin

counties.

Responsibilities:

Job Coaching and Support:

• Assist individuals in identifying job interests and skills, and match them to potential employment opportunities.
• Provide hands-on job coaching and support for participants at their work sites, including teaching job tasks, reinforcing appropriate workplace behavior, and supporting social interactions.
• Collaborate with employers to develop strategies for successful job placement, training, and ongoing support.
• Conduct regular check-ins with participants and employers to ensure job satisfaction and address any challenges.
• Develop individualized employment plans, set goals, and monitor progress.
• Advocate for participants’ needs and rights in the workplace.

Administrative Duties:

• Maintain accurate records of participant progress and job coaching activities.
• Complete and submit timely reports regarding job coaching activities, participant progress, and any issues encountered.
• Assist with billing, ensuring that services provided are properly documented for invoicing and funding purposes.
• Monitor and track service hours for participants, ensuring compliance with program guidelines.
• Maintain up-to-date documentation of all communications with participants, employers, and team members. Employment Services Support:
• Assist participants with creating resumes, preparing for interviews, and developing job search skills.
• Work with a multidisciplinary team, including family members, caregivers, and other support professionals, to provide comprehensive support.
• Develop strategies and goals to help participants maintain and succeed in their employment.
• Ensure that all program documentation and paperwork is completed accurately and on time.

Qualifications:

• Experience working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, ideally in an employment or coaching setting is preferred.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build relationships with participants, employers, and team members.
• Patience, empathy, and problem-solving abilities to support individuals in overcoming challenges.
• Knowledge of community resources and local employers is preferred.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Basic computer skills.
• High school diploma or equivalent; additional training or certifications in disability support, human services, or related fields is a plus.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation for travel between Ottawa, Osage City, and Burlington, KS.

Preferred:

• Experience in vocational counseling, job coaching, or supported employment.
• Familiarity with disability rights, inclusion, and workplace accommodations.