Employment Specialist II

Job Description

Qualifications:

A master’s degree in vocational rehabilitation counseling or evaluation or related area such as personnel, counseling and guidance, and enrollment in a short-term specialized course approved by the agency; or

A bachelor’s degree, enrollment in a specialized course, and enrollment in a master’s degree program in vocational rehabilitation or related areas; or

A combination of education and experience which, in the judgment of the agency, is substantially equivalent to the standards of this subdivision.

Knowledge of ACCES- VR and OPWDD regulations relating to Vocational guidelines.

Ability to work with employers, individuals and families/collaterals to develop appropriate

programming for individuals in Vocational Services.

Must be able to demonstrate tasks or model behaviors associated with appropriate workplace behaviors.

Must be able to provide services on job-sites to workers as required.

Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Able to work independently and as part of a team.

Excellent problem-solving abilities and patience.

Must have automobile, good driving record and approved to drive for DDI.

Responsibilities:

Evaluating individuals through comprehensive work assessments (Community based and Diagnostic) and developing individualized employment plans based on assessment outcomes.

Interview friends, family members and others in the consumer’s support system to help build a Vocational profile to determine the best way to support the consumer.

Collaborate with clients, families, and support teams to set realistic and achievable employment objectives.

Employment training services and training/work site supervision in individual and group settings.

Develop vocational training sites, assist with job development and work assessments and/or evaluations.

Development of strategies and training programs that includes the transition to other intensive or extended vocational services.

Complete all required trainings/certifications and professional development requirements, in accordance with OPWDD and/or ACCES-VR, and recertification trainings as required.

Participate in team meetings as scheduled and staff meetings.

Obtain AMAP certification and administer medications under the supervision of assigned nursing staff if required.

Provide accurate and timely data collection – goal, protocols, outings, behavioral data, progress notes, trip logs and case files for assigned individuals.

Complete incident reports as per 624 Regulations and SCIP-R reports as necessary.

Provide accurate implementation of Emergency Procedures.

Demonstrated knowledge of all OPWDD/ACCES-VR and DDI policies and procedures as they pertain to individuals supported, and documentation of such.

Provide protective oversight and advocacy.

Employees working in program 0240 will be required to obtain AMAP certification within the first 90 days in the position. They will also be required to keep their certification current while they are in this position. Employment Specialists in program 0167 will not be required to obtain AMAP certification. Employment Specialists in program 0129 may be required to obtain AMAP certification, this determination will be made by program management.