Employment Specialist (Deaf Supports)

Job Summary

The Employment Specialist in WCI’s Deaf Services division supports Deaf, Deafblind, and hard of hearing individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in employment settings. This role focuses on teaching job skills, supporting independence, and maintaining positive relationships with employers while ensuring communication access through American Sign Language (ASL).

 Responsibilities

• Support the individuals in their daily schedule, including work, community, and recreational activities.
• Provides transportation to and from jobs as directed by the Employment Coordinator.
• Coach Individuals while on job assignments to increase the likelihood of successful placement and employer satisfaction.
• Notify supervisor of any necessary modifications needed for the job or environment.
• Ensure Individuals are in compliance with policies, procedures, and standards at the work site.
• Implement instructional programs, such as task analyses, skill acquisition programs, social/behavioral plans, and personal hygiene routines, including data collection and data summary.
• Implement all formal/informal, social/behavioral approaches including monitoring (role modeling) and documentation; all ISP (Individual Support Plan) related duties.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, and move for extended periods throughout the day, including stairs. Must be able to physically complete the evacuation plan whilesupporting Individuals.
• Frequently lift, carry, push, or pull up to 25 lbs (e.g., files, supplies, groceries)
• Occasionally lift or move up to 50 lbs (e.g., assisting with transfers, repositioning individuals, crisis prevention, pushing individuals in wheelchairs, using Hoyer lifts)
• Ability to provide hands-on support for personal care as needed per individual support plans (e.g., showering, toileting, assistance with eating)
• Ability to perform basic household tasks related to program operations (e.g., meal preparation, laundry, routine household cleaning, snow shoveling)
• Ability to operate or ride in a vehicle; driving is a requirement for most positions and includes driving agency vans, including wheelchair vans, or personal vehicles
• Ability to secure wheelchairs and assistive devices as needed

Qualifications

• Fluent ASL communication required;experience with Deaf culture and DeafBlind communication preferred.
• Associate degree preferred with at least one year of experience; or high school diploma with two or more years’ experience in human services.
• Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record required.
• First Aid/CPR, PABC certifications required.
• Job coach experience preferred.