Youth Employment Specialist – Dane County

Employment Resources, Inc., a Madison-based nonprofit agency that advances the employment, health and financial security of people with disabilities, is seeking a Youth Employment Specialist to work in Dane County with youth ages 14-21 with intellectual or developmental disabilities and their families as they begin to think about employment and during the transition from high school to community integrated employment.

The Youth Employment Specialist must be able to travel throughout Dane County. Office work can be completed at ERI’s office in Madison, WI with flexibility for some remote work. ERI provides all necessary computer, printer and telephone equipment and other essential work tools.

ERI welcomes individuals from all backgrounds, cultures, and experiences to apply for this opportunity. We believe that a diverse and inclusive workforce fosters creativity, innovation, and a stronger sense of community. Join us in our commitment to creating a workplace that values and respects the unique perspectives and contributions of every team member.

Essential Functions

Provide Employment Counseling and Transition Coordination Services

• Discuss employment goals with youth and their caregivers and explore the services and support needed to reach these goals.
• Assist with job search activities including skill, interest and ability identification, resume creation including visual resumes, job search activities, communication with employers, and starting a job.
• Coordinate with transition teams to assist in obtaining appropriate supports and services needed for the youth to be successful on the job and in their community.
• Outreach to potential employers and work collaboratively with teams to support client success.
• Coordinate with schools and transition teams, as well as long-term care agencies to ensure effective transitions to community integrated employment and support services for young adults exiting high school transition programs.
• Create documentation and write reports to inform teams and other professionals about the individual to aid in finding employment and facilitate a smooth transition to the adult services support team.

Administrative Duties:

• Attend internal and external team meetings to discuss clients’ progress and identify solutions to any barriers
  identified.
• Attend trainings and outreach events.
• Document client and collateral contacts, and other program administration, as requested.

Other Duties as Assigned

• Perform other duties as requested by supervisor or management.
• Adhere to all confidentiality, security, and privacy protocols to ensure reasonable efforts to prevent loss, theft, or unintended disclosure of personal health information or other confidential or sensitive information.

Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Bachelor's or Master’s degree in social work, human services, vocational rehabilitation, special education, or related field;
• Demonstrated commitment that everyone has the skills to work in integrated community settings;
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, as well as other computer and software skills;
• Understand and apply confidentiality and privacy practices as they relate to HIPAA to maintain confidentiality of both client and staff information;
• Strong communication, service coordination and interpersonal skills;
• Ability to work independently with limited supervision;
• Ability to team with co-workers and community partners;
• Ability to prioritize and continually meet numerous deadlines for high-volume tasks, while adapting strategies to meet deadlines and address problems that may arise in a calm manner;
• Ability to work with a diverse group of youth, families and professionals, and to change communication styles accordingly;
• Two or more years of experience with individuals with developmental disabilities and community-based, integrated supports;
• Ability to pass and maintain clearance related to criminal, caregiver and sex offender background check requirements; and
• Must possess a valid Wisconsin driver’s license and proof of personal auto liability insurance meeting Wisconsin’s minimum requirements and be able to travel throughout Dane County.

Job Type: 60-75%* time, which can be negotiated with the successful candidate.

*Benefits are available at 75% level or above.