What are the responsibilities and job description for the Skills Development & Career Specialist position at Makom?
Empowering People, Building a Culture of Inclusion
At Makom, we are dedicated to supporting and empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) to achieve the quality of life they aspire to live. If you are a passionate professional eager to make a meaningful difference in the IDD community, we want to meet you!
For over 40 years, we have been leaders in delivering compassionate and innovative services to individuals and families in the IDD community across Maryland and Virginia. Our team of over 450 professionals is united by a shared commitment to fostering a workplace culture that celebrates diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. At Makom, you will have the chance to be part of a transformative mission while working in a community that values your individuality, expertise, and aspirations.
The Role:
The principal function of the Skills Development & Career Specialist for Programs is to utilize adult learning principles in the design of life learning objectives to create pathways to post-secondary, career, non-career, career exit, and/or other areas of transition for a person’s right to pursue their dreams with self-determination principles and support where needed. This is a highly collaborative role in that the Career Specialist will also be a mentor to people with IDD and people who support people with IDD to create significant life connections that may lead to successful life transitions and Individual driven life path trajectories.
Responsibilities:
- Collaborate with Individuals requesting support to realize and plan potential gap year, post-secondary education, career, or retirement goals.
- Create customizable post-secondary educational/career life/gap year learning trajectories to help Individuals supported transition toward life goals.
- Create education/career curriculum(s) based on the Individual supported customized life plan.
- Collaborate with Individual supported, Business Developer, and/or Education Internship/Apprenticeship Specialist to create resumes, cover letters, college application essays, and other pre-entry level requirements.
- Collaborate with Program Director and/or Business Developer to determine career development and value-added employment opportunities based on the aspirations and career readiness of the Individual supported.
- Collaborate with the Program Director and Education Internship/Apprenticeship Specialist to create post-secondary education plan.
- Participate in the development of Person-Centered Plans (PCP)/Individual Supports Plans (ISP) as requested.
- Connect and resource PM(s) and DSPs to training and professional development resources, and more generally the skills and knowledge necessary to deliver outcomes-focused support.
- Mentor and coach PMs and DSPs, as may be necessary or required to ensure successful implementation of Individual’s supported career/life plan.
- Evaluate all transition implementation aspects to ensure the highest quality of support and services are provided effectively, efficiently.
- Readjust trajectory and career/life path plans to align with evidence-based, metric-driven outcomes.
- Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
- A minimum of bachelor’s degree in education, special education, or human services related field or equivalent experience preferred.
- Demonstrated ability to understand the complexities of adult learning for people with IDD.
- Exceptional communication skills, problem solving; excellent customer service; ability to communicate effectively with people receiving Makom’s support, as well as agency leadership, peers, families, advocates, and external constituencies.
- Proficiency with Microsoft applications & computer skills
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects and deadlines.
- Business/financial acumen; critical thinking; organizational and innovative skills with strong eye for detail and quality required.
- Ability to maintain a professional demeanor and relationships with all people with whom they interact, and work required.
- Must have a valid MD, VA, or DC driver’s license; ability to pass drug screenings, background checks, reference checks, and required training.
- CESP required.
Our Culture:
At Makom, we champion a culture rooted in integrity, inclusion, excellence, and self-determination. We celebrate the unique contributions of every team member and strive to build a community where everyone feels valued and empowered to excel. Makom is a place of belonging. A place of support. A place of connection. A place where every individual can continue to grow. We will continuously push the boundaries of what it means for individuals to live meaningful self-determined lives.
What We Offer:
- Competitive Pay: $65,000-$75,000, based on experience and qualifications.
- Benefits: Comprehensive benefits package for full-time eligible employees, including health insurance, paid time off, and holiday pay.
- Growth Opportunities: Professional development, paid trainings during orientation, career growth programs to help you succeed in your role. Unlock your potential!
- Supportive Work Environment: Work alongside a passionate, mission-driven team.
At Makom, you will have the chance to be part of a transformative mission while working in a community that values your individuality, expertise, and aspirations. Together, we create meaningful change. We pride ourselves on championing a culture of mutual accountability, innovation, entrepreneurialism, and self-determination while attracting and retaining the best people to serve our mission.
Join Us: If you are ready to bring your passion, skills, and dedication to an organization committed to making a difference, we invite you to apply and become part of the Makom family. Together, we will continue to innovate, empower, and inspire.
Let us build a brighter future—one life at a time.
Commitment to EEO:
We offer excellent benefits to eligible employees, competitive wages and that celebrates diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetic information.
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Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible schedule
Schedule:
- 8 hour shift
- Day shift
Work Location: In person
Salary : $65,000 - $75,000
