Career Development Specialist
The Career Development Specialist is responsible for assisting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in obtaining and maintaining meaningful, competitive employment opportunities within their communities. This position provides career assessment, job development, job coaching, employer engagement, advocacy, and ongoing employment supports to ensure successful job placement and long-term employment retention.
The Career Development Specialist works collaboratively with individuals served, families, employers, community partners, and service providers to remove barriers to employment, foster workplace inclusion, and promote independence, self-sufficiency, and career success. This role serves as an ambassador for inclusive employment practices and supports the mission of empowering individuals to achieve their vocational goals and highest level of independence.
Direct Duties
Career Assessment & Planning
- Assesses the interests, abilities, strengths, skills, and vocational goals of individuals served.
- Identifies employment opportunities that align with participant skills, abilities, and career interests.
- Assists individuals in exploring career pathways and employment options.
- Conducts vocational assessments and employment readiness activities.
- Participates in the development and implementation of Individual Habilitation Plans (IHPs) and employment goals.
- Attends and participates in annual IHP meetings and other person-centered planning activities.
Job Development & Employment Services
- Develops and maintains a network of employment opportunities within the business community.
- Cultivates relationships with employers and community organizations to expand employment opportunities.
- Matches individuals to competitive employment opportunities based on individual strengths and preferences.
- Coordinates job placement activities and employment onboarding processes.
- Arranges worksite tours, employer introductions, and informational interviews.
- Assists individuals throughout the job application and interview process.
- Supports completion of all required employment-related documentation prior to job placement.
- Conducts employer outreach and presentations to promote inclusive hiring practices.
Job Coaching & Employment Retention
- Provides on-the-job training and coaching as needed.
- Assists individuals in developing workplace skills, professionalism, and job retention strategies.
- Monitors employment progress and workplace performance.
- Provides follow-up support, retraining, and workplace accommodations when necessary.
- Assists with job retention and career advancement strategies.
- Identifies and resolves workplace barriers that may impact employment success.
- Coordinates re-placement efforts if employment goals or situations change.
Advocacy & Community Integration
- Serves as an advocate for individuals with employers, supervisors, coworkers, and community partners.
- Promotes workplace inclusion and disability awareness.
- Educates employers regarding accommodations, support strategies, and inclusive employment practices.
- Supports individuals in developing workplace communication and self-advocacy skills.
- Strengthens natural workplace supports and community connections.
- Acts as a liaison between individuals served, employers, families, and service providers.
Transportation & Community Support
- Evaluates transportation needs related to employment and community participation.
- Coordinates transportation resources and services.
- Provides travel training and community navigation instruction when necessary.
- Assists individuals in developing independent transportation skills.
Documentation & Reporting
- Maintains accurate participant records and employment documentation.
- Completes reports, case notes, service documentation, and required data collection activities.
- Tracks employment outcomes, progress, and performance measures.
- Maintains compliance with organizational, funding, and regulatory requirements.
- Completes timesheets, expense reports, and required personnel documentation.
- Documents time worked accurately.
Other Responsibilities
- Represents the organization professionally at employer, community, and stakeholder meetings.
- Maintains positive working relationships with individuals served, families, employers, community providers, and referral sources.
- Promotes the mission, values, and goals of Advancing Opportunities and Apis Services.
- Supports program growth and community outreach initiatives.
- Assists with special projects and departmental initiatives.
- Functions as a liaison to other organizational programs and services.
- Demonstrates professionalism, ethical conduct, and sound judgment.
- Performs other duties as assigned by management.
Job Qualifications
Education and Experience
Required
- Bachelor's Degree in Human Services, Rehabilitation Counseling, Social Work, Psychology, Special Education, Vocational Rehabilitation, Business, or a related field.
Preferred
- Experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
- Experience in vocational rehabilitation, job coaching, supported employment, workforce development, or disability services.
- Experience working directly with employers and community organizations.
Licenses & Certifications
- Valid non-provisional driver's license required.
- Reliable personal vehicle with state-required liability insurance.
- Ability to meet employment screening and background clearance requirements, including FBI clearance if applicable.
- CPR and First Aid certification preferred or required based on program needs.
Required Skills
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Excellent customer service abilities.
- Strong organizational and time management skills.
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
- Strong advocacy and relationship-building abilities.
- Ability to communicate effectively with individuals with disabilities, families, employers, and community partners.
- Strong problem-solving and conflict-resolution skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and electronic documentation systems.
- Basic computer, internet, email, and data entry skills.
- Strong attention to detail and documentation accuracy.
Job Competencies
Employment Development & Job Placement
Develops employment opportunities that align with individual strengths, abilities, and career interests.
Advocacy & Relationship Building
Advocates for individuals and develops productive relationships with employers, families, and community stakeholders.
Effective Communication
Communicates professionally and effectively with individuals served, families, employers, coworkers, and community partners.
Person-Centered Planning
Supports individual employment goals through person-centered planning and individualized services.
Organizational & Time Management
Balances multiple responsibilities, maintains documentation, and meets established deadlines.
Cultural Humility
Demonstrates respect for diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives while promoting inclusion and equity.
Problem Solving & Conflict Resolution
Uses solution-focused approaches to address challenges and remove barriers to employment success.
Independence & Initiative
Works independently, proactively identifies needs, and takes appropriate action to support positive outcomes.
Documentation & Compliance
Maintains accurate and timely documentation while ensuring compliance with organizational and regulatory standards.
Technical Proficiency
Utilizes technology, reporting tools, and software applications effectively to support service delivery and documentation.
Network Functions
Vehicle Requirements
- Current driver's license with acceptable driving record.
- Current vehicle registration and insurance.
- Reliable personal transportation for travel throughout the service area.
Equipment/Machines
Equipment Operations
- Telephone
- Cellular phone