An Employment Specialist assures the needs of the people supported are met by coordinating services and advocating for their dreams/goals in a vocational setting. The position also includes managerial duties, supervision of staff and scheduling. Managers must be flexible with their available hours to meet the needs of those they are responsible for.
SPECIFIC JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
- Supports, enriches and transforms the lives of people we support by empowering them to achieve their goals and dreams, live their lives the way they choose, and assist them in becoming as independent as possible
- Attends program training with the QIDP and accurately implements all OSP/PCSP programs, learning objectives, and supports. Attends team meetings and completes assessments as requested
- Documents in an accurate and timely manner in all applicable records, charts and files of people supported
INTEGRATION AND COMMUNITY SUPPORT
- Learns about people’s vocational, community and social interests through experience and exposure
- Assists people to remain connected to their natural supports (family, close friends, boyfriend, girlfriend, etc.)
- Supports people to be active members of the community (i.e., employment, volunteer work, belonging to clubs/organizations, participating in church activities, etc.) by emphasizing choices and options
- Maintains a valid driver’s license, vehicle insurance, and has access to a vehicle
HEALTH, SAFETY AND WELFARE OF THE PERSON SUPPORTED
- Learns about the best possible health needs (including physical and mental health) for the person you are supporting, including knowledge of medications taken by the person and the effects of the medications
- Supports people to become involved in their personal health needs, accompanies people to medical appointments, provides support during medical procedures, and completes follow-up recommendations as needed
- Administers medications and completes treatments according to the Medication Administration Record
- Maintains current First Aid and CPR certification
- Assists and supports people to have a safe and clean environment in which to live and work
- Supports people to look their best by providing assistance in areas of hygiene, grooming, and attire
FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT OF DEPARTMENT
- Monitors and reviews monthly budgets and stays within approved budget amounts
- Approves expenditures according to department guidelines
- Oversees financial expenditures/budgets for people supported
- Manages department’s procurement (P) card
- Ensures people’s employment income is reported/recorded accurately including self-employment businesses
SYSTEM ADVOCACY
- Serve as a personal advocate for people and teach members of the community to treat people we support with dignity and respect through respectful communication and interactions
- Advocate with employers, community members, families and other stakeholders to develop needed supports and services
- Assists and supports people to learn about their rights, due process, and fair treatment
- Ensures people we support are free of abuse, neglect, mistreatment, and exploitation
ONGOING EDUCATION AND TRAINING
- Attends orientation, mandatory trainings and departmental meetings as scheduled
- Successfully completes modules and Pathways training as required
ADDITIONAL DUTIES
- Participates in reviews for accreditation and licensure as requested
- Participates in organizational surveys, culture and wellness activities
