Employment Specialist
Allied Community Care, Baltimore, MD, United States
The
Employment Specialist
is a highly engaged and mission-driven role that provides one‑on‑one support services to navigate employment process for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). This position is ideal for someone who thrives on meaningful connection and purposeful structure—providing hands‑on support and advocacy while also developing personalized, goal‑driven activities that foster learning, independence, and community integration.
Overview The Employment Specialist role involves working directly with clients to assess job readiness, develop career plans, and connect them with employment opportunities that align with their skills and goals.
Employment Readiness & Client Assessment
Maintain an active assignment list of individuals receiving services through DDA who are seeking competitive employment
Conduct a comprehensive assessment to understand each person’s strengths, needs, preferences, support systems, and employment interests
Complete intake assessments to determine employment readiness, barriers, and vocational goals
Develop individualized employment plans in collaboration with each person supported
Prepare professional vocational profiles to guide the job development process
Job Development & Community Engagement
Visit and engage local community to identify and negotiate work experiences (informational interviews, job shadows, situational assessments, job tryouts)
Identify job openings aligned with each client’s skills, interests, and career goals
Build and maintain strong relationships with employers, community organizations, and workforce partners
Attend community events, job fairs, and networking opportunities to promote the agency and expand employment opportunities
Advocate for individuals with IDD and help negotiate job offers and accommodations when needed
Skill Development & Employment Preparation
Provide support with resume writing, job application completion, and career exploration
Conduct mock interviews, role‑playing, and workplace etiquette training to build confidence and increase job readiness
Provide travel training to help individuals gain independence in commuting to and from work
On‑the‑Job Support & Coaching
Deliver on‑site and off‑site job coaching to ensure successful integration and retention
Provide systematic instruction to teach job tasks, build workplace routines, and promote independence
Collaborate with employers to develop support fade‑out plans and ensure long‑term success
Support clients in developing positive workplace relationships with coworkers and supervisors
Documentation, Reporting & Communication
Complete all required documentation including daily notes, attendance records, employment forms, and progress updates
Track measurable outcomes such as employment placements, retention, and skill development
Prepare and submit reports for internal teams, DDA, and other stakeholders
Collaboration & Professional Development
Participate in internal and external meetings to support client success and program growth
Maintain strong communication with all team members involved in a person’s support network
Complete and pass all required training, including ACRE and/or the CESP certification, and renew training as required
Engage in ongoing learning and professional development opportunities
Education
Minimum associate degree with 5+ years of relevant experience in IDD services, case management, or housing support
Experience
Experience with knowledge of workforce development, vocational rehabilitation, job placement, or career counseling
Knowledge of local labor market trends and community employment resources
Background in providing on‑site job coaching, workplace accommodations, and employment retention support is preferred
Certifications & Licenses
Valid Maryland driver’s license with a clean driving record and reliable transportation
Must have the ACRE (Association of Community Rehabilitation Educators) or CESP (Certified Employment Support Professional)
Working Conditions
Work occurs in virtual and community settings, including client homes and/or work sites
Frequent local travel required; must have reliable transportation
Flexible daytime schedule to accommodate evening/weekend commitments
Administrative duties include documentation, reporting, and meetings using standard computer equipment
Collaborative, fast‑paced environment focused on inclusion and client support
Compensation & Core Benefits
Annual Salary: $60,000 – 70,000
Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
Retirement plan
Paid time off and holiday pay
Mileage Reimbursement
Flexible scheduling to balance housing services responsibilities
Preferred Additional Qualifications
Bilingual capabilities
Background in disability advocacy or services
Experience with assistive technology and communication devices
Knowledge of evidence‑based practices in skill development and community integration
Allied Community Care Inc.
is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and individuals served.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Employment Specialist
is a highly engaged and mission-driven role that provides one‑on‑one support services to navigate employment process for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). This position is ideal for someone who thrives on meaningful connection and purposeful structure—providing hands‑on support and advocacy while also developing personalized, goal‑driven activities that foster learning, independence, and community integration.
Overview The Employment Specialist role involves working directly with clients to assess job readiness, develop career plans, and connect them with employment opportunities that align with their skills and goals.
Employment Readiness & Client Assessment
Maintain an active assignment list of individuals receiving services through DDA who are seeking competitive employment
Conduct a comprehensive assessment to understand each person’s strengths, needs, preferences, support systems, and employment interests
Complete intake assessments to determine employment readiness, barriers, and vocational goals
Develop individualized employment plans in collaboration with each person supported
Prepare professional vocational profiles to guide the job development process
Job Development & Community Engagement
Visit and engage local community to identify and negotiate work experiences (informational interviews, job shadows, situational assessments, job tryouts)
Identify job openings aligned with each client’s skills, interests, and career goals
Build and maintain strong relationships with employers, community organizations, and workforce partners
Attend community events, job fairs, and networking opportunities to promote the agency and expand employment opportunities
Advocate for individuals with IDD and help negotiate job offers and accommodations when needed
Skill Development & Employment Preparation
Provide support with resume writing, job application completion, and career exploration
Conduct mock interviews, role‑playing, and workplace etiquette training to build confidence and increase job readiness
Provide travel training to help individuals gain independence in commuting to and from work
On‑the‑Job Support & Coaching
Deliver on‑site and off‑site job coaching to ensure successful integration and retention
Provide systematic instruction to teach job tasks, build workplace routines, and promote independence
Collaborate with employers to develop support fade‑out plans and ensure long‑term success
Support clients in developing positive workplace relationships with coworkers and supervisors
Documentation, Reporting & Communication
Complete all required documentation including daily notes, attendance records, employment forms, and progress updates
Track measurable outcomes such as employment placements, retention, and skill development
Prepare and submit reports for internal teams, DDA, and other stakeholders
Collaboration & Professional Development
Participate in internal and external meetings to support client success and program growth
Maintain strong communication with all team members involved in a person’s support network
Complete and pass all required training, including ACRE and/or the CESP certification, and renew training as required
Engage in ongoing learning and professional development opportunities
Education
Minimum associate degree with 5+ years of relevant experience in IDD services, case management, or housing support
Experience
Experience with knowledge of workforce development, vocational rehabilitation, job placement, or career counseling
Knowledge of local labor market trends and community employment resources
Background in providing on‑site job coaching, workplace accommodations, and employment retention support is preferred
Certifications & Licenses
Valid Maryland driver’s license with a clean driving record and reliable transportation
Must have the ACRE (Association of Community Rehabilitation Educators) or CESP (Certified Employment Support Professional)
Working Conditions
Work occurs in virtual and community settings, including client homes and/or work sites
Frequent local travel required; must have reliable transportation
Flexible daytime schedule to accommodate evening/weekend commitments
Administrative duties include documentation, reporting, and meetings using standard computer equipment
Collaborative, fast‑paced environment focused on inclusion and client support
Compensation & Core Benefits
Annual Salary: $60,000 – 70,000
Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
Retirement plan
Paid time off and holiday pay
Mileage Reimbursement
Flexible scheduling to balance housing services responsibilities
Preferred Additional Qualifications
Bilingual capabilities
Background in disability advocacy or services
Experience with assistive technology and communication devices
Knowledge of evidence‑based practices in skill development and community integration
Allied Community Care Inc.
is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and individuals served.
#J-18808-Ljbffr