Overview

Description: Empower potential. Build pathways. Drive real employment outcomes. PLEASE NOTE: This role will be based in Lake County. About AspireSince 1960, Aspire has been creating boundless opportunities for people with disabilities. We believe in working together to pursue greater possibilities, foster meaningful connections, and build communities where everyone belongs. Every member of our team plays a role in advancing this mission!The Role At Aspire, we believe meaningful employment changes lives. As an Employment Specialist, you'll support adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in achieving and retaining competitive, community-based employment while helping individuals build confidence, independence, and meaningful careers.Working collaboratively with an integrated training and employment team, you'll prepare individuals for job placement, provide individualized support that promotes long-term retention, and assist with employment consulting engagements. You'll also partner with employers to help create welcoming workplaces where individuals can thrive and feel a sense of belonging.This is more than a job coaching role-it's a chance to open doors, build meaningful connections, and make a lasting impact in the lives of individuals and the communities they are part of.What You'll DoSupport Individuals on Their Employment JourneySupport individuals by following individualized plans for seeking employment, including: developing resumes and cover letters, building job search networks (including online networking), conducting job searches, identifying job leads, completing and submitting applications, practicing interview skills, and supporting job-related communications. Conduct assessments, when necessary, to determine an individual's skills and abilities to assist in the job matching process Develop and execute an Individual Placement Plan with each individual Assist individuals in securing community employment by screening employer requirements and individual skills to create successful job matches Conduct job analyses with attention to job details and environmental and social factors Create adaptive supports as needed, including but not limited to checklists, social stories, visual prompts, and other aids Create support fade-out plans Provide transportation training (e.g., how to use public transportation and/or rideshare) and provide transportation as neededProvide Job Coaching & Ongoing Employment SupportProvide ongoing job support to ensure successful placements while developing natural supports at each community-based work location Serve as a liaison between employers and individuals at the worksite Provide transitional job coaching and continued coaching as needed Provide job retention support as neededManage Caseloads & DocumentationManage a caseload of job seekers and maintain/update case files per requirements Document participant progress and activities through case notes, job coaching reports, staffing reports, and progress reports Attend team meetings and staffings per Illinois Department of Human Services Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) requirements Complete reporting and service requirements of the DRS contractBuild Employer & Community PartnershipsMaintain awareness of the local job market and employment opportunities across various industries Market Aspire's employment services with employers and referral sources Execute components of inclusive employment consulting engagementsSupport Organizational ExcellenceCooperate with compliance and quality improvement initiatives and protocols Perform other duties deemed necessary and within the scope of the position as assignedWho You AreEffective oral and written communication skills with the ability to write reports Able to maintain confidential information Able to deal tactfully, engagingly, and courteously with individuals, employees at all levels, families, and the general public Demonstrates adaptability, flexibility, and accountabi