Employment Development Specialist

Job Overview
We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Employment Development Specialist to join our team. The ideal candidate will play a crucial role in developing and supporting direct support professionals (DSPs), particularly those with developmental disabilities and autism, in their journey towards a safe, healthy and meaningful quality of life. This position requires a strong background in social work, workforce development, and mentoring to effectively assist clients in achieving their career goals. This is an on-site position which supports the DSPs in all areas where services are provided throughout Pennsylvania, therefore travel is required; the position is based in State College Pa.

Duties

• Fulfill the role of Skills of Central PA’s liaison with the National Alliance of Direct Support Professionals (NADSP), while managing the account for the NADSP E-badge academy.
• Organize and coordinate the Employee Development Program application process with Training Manager.
• Responsible for communicating the open application process for the E-badge academy throughout the organization through a variety of effective communication methods.
• Track each employee's status in the certification process, utilizing designated systems and software.
• Provide ongoing support and mentorship to employees throughout their certification process.
• Review all E-badge submissions prior to team members submitting to NADSP and identify any concerns that may need communicated to the applicant or others within the organization.
• Maintain accurate records of employee's progress and outcomes for reporting purposes.
• Develop, review and update training materials as needed, ensuring that all training materials are clear, concise and current.
• Provide assistance with orientation and training of employees in adult learning concepts, training methods and techniques.
• Stay informed about best practices in workforce development and training for employees supporting individuals with disabilities.
• Ensure a high level of dependability to include attendance at work and punctuality.

Experience
Candidates should possess the following skills and experience:

• Background (1-3 years) in human services or related field is preferred.
• Experience as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) or Frontline Supervisor is preferred.
• A knowledge of commonly used concepts of adult learning is required.
• Familiarity with working with individuals who have developmental and/or intellectual disabilities is highly desirable.
• Proven experience in mentoring and training development for diverse populations.
• The ability to develop curriculum, learning objectives, and/or course materials.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to educate employees effectively on learning objectives and topics.
• Must possess excellent organizational skills and attention to detail with strong analytical, problem-solving and creative skills.
• Must be a positive role-model for others and able to work on a team.
• Ability to function well in a high-paced and at times stressful environment.
• Proficient in the use of Microsoft 365 applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint etc.).

Educational Requirements:

• High School Diploma or GED is required.
• Bachelor’s Degree in Education, Communications and Media, Behavioral or Social Sciences, Human Resources, or other related field preferred.

Skills of Central PA prohibits hiring and employment discrimination on the basis of age, ancestry, race, color, disability, ethnic or national origin, gender, gender identity or expression, genetic information, HIV/AIDS status, military status, pregnancy, religion, sex, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, veteran status, or any other bases under the law. Skills is an equal opportunity service provider and employer.

Join us in making a difference by empowering employees to achieve their career aspirations!

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $54,000.00 - $66,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• On-the-job training
• Paid time off
• Referral program
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Evenings as needed
• Monday to Friday
• Nights as needed
• Weekends as needed

Application Question(s):

• Were you referred by a current Skills employee? If so, who?

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Required)

Experience:

• Working with people with developmental disabilities: 1 year (Preferred)

Language:

• English (Required)

License/Certification:

• Driver's License (Required)

Shift availability:

• Day Shift (Preferred)
• Night Shift (Preferred)
• Overnight Shift (Preferred)

Ability to Relocate:

• State College, PA 16801: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $54,000 - $66,000