Job Coach/Employment Specialist

Description:

Job Function:

Els for Autism Foundation based in Jupiter Florida envisions a world of limitless possibilities for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families.

This full time salaried exempt position will collaborate with highly skilled professionals and highly experienced staff to develop, plan, implement, and assess programs for transition aged youth and adults with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities.

Responsibilities:

Instruction:

• Create groupings and natural support systems to fit the needs of each participant (i.e., employee mentors, pairs, one-on-one)
• Utilize explicit and systematic instruction (i.e., preview, breaking down tasks, building on skills, review)
• Utilize strategies based on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) within instructional and behavior management procedures
• Develop visual and communication supports for program participants and complete a referral for clinical services (BCBA, SLP, MHC) and support as needed
• Utilize a system of least prompts and fading strategies during skill acquisition, practice, and maintenance

Planning:

• Conduct an environmental assessment of worksite and develop visual supports for participants prior to their first day of employment
• Collaborate with supervisor and other professionals as needed to conduct applicant interviews, situational assessments, and orientation

Collaboration:

• Collaborate with host worksite staff and management to ensure program fidelity
• Provide sensitivity training to employer partners and staff to ensure they learn effective strategies in supporting employees with autism and related developmental disabilities prior to client start
• Work with employers and worksite staff to ensure they take responsibility for onboarding, supervision, provision of accommodations, and ongoing communication with client/employee
• Serve as a liaison between participants, their families, Els for Autism staff, and host worksite

Job Placement:

• Actively assist in acquiring paid employment leads in the community
• Actively assist in matching participants to available positions in the community, as driven by their employment goal stated in their Individualized Plan for Employment
• Assist participants in resume writing, completing job applications, interviews, orientation, and on-the-job support.

Requirements:

Qualifications:

• Associate's Degree in Education, Rehabilitation, Applied Behavior Analysis or related field
• Minimum 2 years of experience teaching/coaching individuals with ASD and other developmental disabilities
• Valid Florida Driver's License and reliable transportation
• Experience securing paid employment opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities

Professionalism:

• Dress code is comfortable business casual attire.
• Display a high standard of integrity and conduct while serving as a representative and ambassador for Els for Autism, its mission, and the vision of the Els family.

Work Environment:

• This job is Monday-Friday with an occasional need for evening and weekend work in support of clients.
• Includes commuting between worksite locations in support of clients.
• Office work is completed on campus and may include shared office space.
• May be responsible for transporting clients as needed to community-based locations using a company van.

Els for Autism is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Els for Autism is committed to fostering a safe and inclusive workplace, where diversity is valued and all individuals, regardless of background, identity, or ability, are respected and provided equal opportunities for success. To learn more, please visit elsforautism.org.