Assistive Communication Specialist

Washington County Mental Health Services Inc; Barre Town (VT); On-site; USD 35,000 - 38,000; Full time

Job summary

Washington County Mental Health Services is seeking an Assistive Communication Specialist to empower individuals with significant communication needs. You will design and implement AAC strategies, provide hands-on training, and advocate for access to communication tools in diverse settings.

Coordinate services, assess AAC and supported typing options, train staff and families, collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, and collect data to monitor progress.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in related field preferred.
• Experience with AAC, supported typing, and assistive technology.
• Experience with AAC methods across settings.
• Strong teaching, facilitation, organizational, and time-management skills.
• Ability to deliver services and complete treatment notes in English.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and deliver communication services for individuals with significant communication needs.
• Conduct assessments to determine AAC and support typing strategies and tools.
• Provide direct support and coaching to individuals using AAC systems and assistive technology.
• Train staff, families, and employees in effective communication strategies and best practices.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to integrate communication support into broader service plans.
• Collect, analyze, and document data to monitor progress and inform program development.
• Participate in professional learning communities and initiatives such as the Vermont Communication Task Force.

Skills

AAC

Supported typing

Assistive technology

Communication coaching

Documentation

Education

Bachelor’s degree in related field

Tools

AAC devices

Assistive tech

Job description

Assistive Communication SpecialistWCMHS is seeking an Assistive Communication Specialist to empower individuals to be heard, understood, and fully included. The Assistive Communication Specialist plays a vital role in supporting individuals with significant communication needs to express themselves, build relationships, and achieve their social, behavioral, and employment goals.By specializing in augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) and supported typing, this role helps remove barriers to participation and independence. Working collaboratively with individuals, families, support teams, and employers, the Specialist designs and implements effective communication strategies, provides hands-on training, and advocates for access to the tools and supports that make meaningful communication possible.Summary of DutiesCoordinate and deliver communication services for individuals with significant communication needsConduct assessments to determine appropriate AAC and support typing strategies and toolsProvide direct support and coaching to individuals using AAC systems and assistive technologyTrain staff, families, and employees in effective communication strategies and best practicesCollaborate with interdisciplinary teams to integrate communication support into broader service plansCollect, analyze, and document data to monitor progress and inform program developmentParticipate in professional learning communities and initiatives such as the Vermont Communication Task ForceCompensation and BenefitsWCMHS provides a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, retirement, and a generous paid time off package including flexible holidays and 12 vacation days in year one.The starting pay range for this position is $25.59 - $27.64 per hourSummary of QualificationsBachelor’s degree in communication sciences, education, psychology, human services, or a related field preferredRelevant experience with AAC, supported typing, and assistive technology may be considered in lieu of formal educationDemonstrated experience with augmentative and alternative communication methods, including supported typing and assistive technologyExperience working with individuals who require communication support across a range of settingsStrong teaching, facilitation, organizational, and time-management skillsThe ability to deliver services and complete treatment notes in EnglishWorkplace ConditionsWork occurs in varied community settings, including homes, offices, and public locations, transporting clients in one’s own vehicle, flexible scheduling, including evenings and weekends, may be needed to meet program demands, safety and crisis response protocols apply, ability to lift up to 50lbs, and frequent computer use and reliable attendance are essential for documentation and team communication.About the AgencyFor more than 50 years, Washington County Mental Health Services (WCMHS) has served the Washington County community and the Orange County towns of Orange, Washington, and Williamstown. WCMHS provides education, support, and treatment to individuals and families living with mental health challenges, substance use issues, and developmental and intellectual disabilities. Providing accessible, high-quality services in the community, schools, and health care settings, we work toward positive outcomes for wellness with collaborative, inclusive, and compassionate care. Washington County Mental Health Services is “Where Hope and Support Come Together.”#CCM