EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST

Job DetailsJob Location: Main Office - Dothan, AL 36303Position Type: Full TimeSalary Range: $19.23 - $19.23 HourlyJob Shift: DayThe Employment Specialist is responsible for developing employment opportunities for job-ready consumers and supporting individuals with disabilities in obtaining and maintaining competitive employment. This position works closely with employers, consumers, and referral sources to provide job development, placement, coaching, and follow-up services in support of WRC’s mission. Regular and dependable attendance is an essential function of this position. Basic Task List: Develop and secure job opportunities with local businesses for job-ready consumers. Build and maintain positive working relationships with employers to support job placements.  Interview, evaluate, and assess consumers for employment readiness. Provide job coaching and follow-up services to support successful job retention. Instruct consumers in resume writing, application completion, job search strategies, interview skills, and appropriate workplace behavior. Prepare, maintain, and submit accurate consumer case files, progress reports, and documentation. Serve as an active member of the rehabilitation team by communicating consumer progress to staff and referral sources. Follow up with employers and consumers to ensure job placements are stable and successful. Secondary Duties:   Participate in civic, business, and community organizations to promote awareness of individuals with disabilities and WRC services. Attend and participate in in-service training and continuing education activities. Develop and conduct training sessions for consumers, employers, staff, and community partners as assigned. Maintain assigned equipment in accordance with WRC policies and procedures.  Protect confidential client information in accordance with applicable laws and WRC policies. Assist or substitute in other program areas as assigned QualificationsEducation/Training Bachelor’s Degree in rehabilitation, education, human services, or related field preferred Career goal of pursuing a master’s degree in a related field is desirable. Work Experience A minimum of two years’ experience in a vocation rehabilitation environment is preferred but not required Experience in working with the public required Experience working with individuals with disabilities preferred Knowledge/Skills/Abilities Knowledge of local and regional labor markets and employment opportunities Knowledge of job development, job readiness, job placement, job coaching and job retention strategies Knowledge of marketing and employer outreach strategies Knowledge of behavioral change techniques and vocational rehabilitation principles Knowledge of functional limitations and impact on employment expectations Ability to conduct employer outreach, including sales calls and cold calls Ability to establish and maintain professional relationships with employers, businesses, government agencies, referral sources, and consumers Ability to conduct job searches, job analyses, and workplace assessments Ability to instruct, coach, and lead individuals with disabilities Ability to observe, document, and report consumer behavior and progress Strong verbal and written communication skills Strong organizational and time management skills Ability to coordinate consumer schedules, staffing needs, and required documentation within established timelines Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and manage work performed offsite Temperaments/Aptitudes Ability to conduct sales calls, cold calls, and work closely with employers to create opportunities for clients. Ability to develop contacts with local business, state, and regional governments Ability to develop positive relationships with consumers, referral sources, businesses, and industries Ability to perform job searches Ability to perform job analysis. Ability to implement change techniques Ability to observe and record behavior Ability to instruct and lead individuals with disabilities Ability to present ideas clearly, orally and in writing Ability to organize and utilize time effectively. Ability to coordinate consumer schedules, staffing, and written reports within an established time frame. Ability to demonstrate self-motivation and time management skills to work independent of facility resources and direct supervision. Other Requirements  Must possess a valid driver’s license and be approved to driver for WRC purposes Must be able to pass a background check as applicable to work with minors, individuals with cognitive impairments.  Must be able to maintain effort and professionalism in challenging or high-pressure situations Must adhere to and follow the WRC Code of Ethical Conduct in all interactions with consumers, staff, employees and the public. Must be knowledgeable of emergency procedures, accident reporting and proper techniques for assisting individuals with disabilities. Must maintain confidentiality and comply with all privacy and data protection requirements. Location of Work This position primarily works in the community, engaging businesses and employers to identify job opportunities. Limited work may occur at WRC facilities as required.