at Pathway Services Unlimited, Inc. in Jacksonville, Illinois, United States
Job Description
Job Summary
The role of the Employment Specialist is to secure a variety of employment opportunities for the people supported. This includes both contractual/micro-business opportunities, as well as community-integrated employment. This position reports directly to the Vocational Qualified Intellectual Disabilities Professional (QIDP).
Responsibilities and Duties
- Explores community integrated employment opportunities in Jacksonville and the surrounding area for people supported.
- Develops relationships and partnerships with community members and local businesses in order to obtain employment for people supported.
- Educates employers, community members and local businesses about the benefits and opportunities available to them by employing people with disabilities.
- Works with employers, community members and local businesses in establishing Pathway as a potential vendor for sale of products created and manufactured by people supported.
- Regularly inspects the state procurement website for possible State Use contract opportunities for people supported.
- Works directly with the Job Coach and Job Trainer in ensuring a smooth transition from securing a paid work opportunity to actively working at a job site.
- Monitors market trends, measures partnership engagement and reports on program success metrics.
- Serves as the main point of contact for employers should issues arise with the employment of a person supported or further training is required.
- Responsible to employers, community members and local businesses as the liaison for all employment opportunities.
- Maintains all product and sales certifications.
- Attends community service group meetings, Chamber of Commerce and local events in order to obtain employment or connect with potential employers or retailers.
- Must have excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to build professional relationships with community members and employers.
- Actively promotes Pathway Services, the Supported Employment Program, the people supported by Pathway and the products they produce in the Jacksonville area and surrounding communities.
- Maintains proper driver eligibility, background clearance, and required DSP Certification.
- May be required to assist during emergency situations.
- Performs all other duties as assigned.
