Supported Employment Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title

SUPPORTED EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST

Reports to

EMPLOYMENT SERVICES MANAGER

Direct Reports

NONE

FLSA Status : NON EXEMPT

DSP Status : YES

Full time

To explore the full range of benefits please visit our website www.jmmurray.com

$20.09-$24.41 / hour - Placement in the range will be determined based on experience and other factors allowed by law.

This job description is intended to describe the nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this position. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required of the job incumbents.

GENERAL SUMMARY

Promotes and develops community employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities and provides job coaching in order to increase their independence. Ensures all accommodations are in place in order to promote success.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Maintains regular attendance and punctuality in order to provide quality direct support and service to individuals served. This position performs all hours onsite and / or at all assigned locations of service.
• Follows all safety rules and regulations; wears and / or uses required protective equipment while working; immediately reports any safety concerns or unsafe working conditions to Employment Services management.
• Conducts all aspects of direct support to individuals served in compliance with the JM Murray mission statement, policies and procedures, professional standards, and applicable governmental laws, regulations, rules and standards.
• Maintains caseload of individuals comprised of individuals who are engaged in intensive and / or extended “stages” of pursuing / obtaining employment. Initiates and / or participates in meetings or case conferences at least annually [more often if required by funding source] for all assigned individuals. Attends shared case meetings as scheduled to provide input and support regarding individuals and placements.
• Develops, and implements, monitors and revises employment plans for assigned individuals per service requirements (OPWDD, OMH, ACCES-VR) and ensures necessary documentation as per funding source that meet compliance requirements.
• Based on individual needs and interests, independently provides employment services that further assist individuals in their employment goals and independence. Activities and supports could include job development, observations, job shadowing, situational assessments, career exploration, discovery, job coaching and career advancement.
• Maintains ongoing communication with work sites and supervisors to ensure individual’s continued employment success. Obtains feedback regarding individual’s work performance and provides job coaching support as needed.
• Completes appropriate and timely documentation of services through the use of the JM Murray Electronic Medical Record, and the use of equipment which includes but is not limited to a computer, laptop, and / or a tablet. Documentation includes field notes, monthly reports, etc.
• Acts as a liaison between the individual, the employer, family members / advocate, Care Coordinator / Care Manager, and other involved service agencies and providers.
• Works cooperatively with other involved agencies to obtain or provide necessary supports and services such as case management support, personal presentation / appearance, independent living, housing, budgeting, transportation, childcare, and benefit management.
• Develops rapport and partnerships with local businesses in order to explore and create employment opportunities for individuals. May be required to use equipment at work sites to demonstrate proficient use to individuals served. This includes but is not limited to broom, mop, rake, small hand tools, kitchen utensils, dishwasher, oven, etc.
• Provides safe transportation and on site supervision to support individuals at community sites, as needed by each individual assigned. If using a company vehicle, ensures it is left clean inside and free of debris, it has gas in it, and that first aid kits are on hand. Immediately reports any mechanical, safety or other needs for repair and maintenance. Ensures their personal vehicles are clean inside and free of excess debris.
• Performs clerical duties necessary to maintain accurate records and service operations including but not limited to filing, copying, computer entry, etc.
• Attends all required and requested training and meetings, and maintains certifications for required training including but not limited to CPR, First Aid and AED. Completion of required services training according to current regulatory requirements (OPWDD, ACCESS-VR, OMH-HCBS).
• Conducts self in a manner as to always contribute to maximum individual growth and in accordance with all regulations, the DSP Code of Ethics and Company policy and procedures. Represents JM Murray and the JM Murray mission in a positive manner, treating people with respect and dignity.
• Performs additional duties and responsibilities, as assigned.

COLLABORATION

INTERNAL

Employment Services staff, Vocational Services staff

EXTERNAL

Care Coordinators

Employers / Work Sites

Community Services Providers

ACCES-VR counselors

CWCC / OTDA staff

EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE

Bachelor’s Degree in psychology, education or human services

Two years of experience providing educational, habilitative, vocational and / or employment services to adults with disabilities.

KNOWLEDGE and SKILLS

Ability to work independently and use sound independent decision making skills and judgment.

Flexibility to adjust to changes in schedules, assignments and needs of individuals served

Problem solving and trouble shooting skills

Good written communication skills and efficient use of technology.

Strong interpersonal and communication skills in working with a variety of people and positions, and to make and maintain connections with local businesses and employers.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

Requires a valid NYS Driver’s License that meets Company standards; requires proof of NYS minimum insurance coverage.

Requires clearance through a Background Check process that will include, but is not limited to, clearance through the NYS Justice Center, the Office of People with Development Disabilities (OPWDD), the Office of Mental Health (OMH (as required)), the NYS Department of Motor Vehicles, and the NYS Office of Child and Family Services.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Job assignments may take place indoors and outdoors and require travel to various community locations, in various environmental conditions including rain, snow and cold weather.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Job-related physical abilities an individual must possess in order to perform the job in a satisfactory manner. In some cases accommodations may be made in accordance with JM Murray policy and with our mission.

0-24 %

25 -49 %

50 -74 %

75 –100 %

Standing / Walking / Mobility : Must be able to stand to operate equipment; mobility to embark and disembark from equipment.

Environmental Conditions : Must be able to work in an environment that includes, but is not limited to noise, cold, heat and odors.

External Conditions : Must be able to work in a position requiring exposure to the weather conditions.

Lifting : Must be able to lift unaided, at least 10lbs

Must be able to lift unaided, from 11-30lbs

Must be able to lift unaided, from 31-70lbs

Must be able to lift unaided, from 71-100lbs

Must be able to lift unaided, over 100lbs

Manipulating / Grasping / Feeling : Must be able to write, type, and use office and / or other equipment and handle materials.

I have reviewed this job description and I am able to perform the essential functions as outlined. I have discussed any questions I may have about this job description prior to signing this document.

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PRINT NAME

___________________________________ ___________________

SIGNATURE DATE

Supported Employment Specialist V2019.12.30