Employment Consultant

Best Buddies International; Milwaukee (WI); On-site; USD 40,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

Best Buddies International in Milwaukee, WI seeks an Employment Consultant to coach individuals with IDD through the job-seeking process, onboarding, training, and employer relations to foster sustainable employment.

You will apply a person-centered approach, develop skills, and provide advocacy to help participants gain independence and meaningful work opportunities within the community.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or 2+ years of professional experience, Best Buddies program experience a plus

Responsibilities

• Support individuals in job searching efforts matching their skills and transportation options

Skills

Public speaking

Group facilitation

Interpersonal skills

Writing skills

Time management

Autonomy

Empathy with IDD

Relationship management

Education

Bachelor’s degree

2+ years experience

Best Buddies program experience

Tools

Office 365

Social media

Job description

JOB REQUIREMENTS: Number of Openings: 1 Job Title: Employment Consultant

Occupational Category: Please choose the most appropriate choice based on the Job Title and Description. Duties and Responsibilties of Job:

Best Buddies International is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to establishing a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, inclusive living, and family support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Best Buddies is the largest organization dedicated to ending the social, physical and economic isolation of the 200 million people worldwide with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Our programs empower people with IDD to form meaningful friendships with their peers, secure jobs, improve communication and advocacy skills, and live independently, while also offering support for their families.

Job Title: Employment Consultant Department: State Operations and Programs Reports to: Program Supervisor, Jobs Salary Range: $40,000-$44,000 Position Overview: The primary responsibility of the Employment Consultant is to function as a coach, mentor, and vocational support professional working one-to-one with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). This includes supporting participants through the job seeking process, onboarding and ongoing training while managing essential documentation, compliance requirements, and employer relationships to foster successful and sustainable employment. The Employment Consultant empowers individuals to achieve meaningful employment by providing personalized guidance, skill development, and advocacy. This position supports individuals with IDD as they navigate barriers, maximize their potential, and secure opportunities that enhance their independence and overall quality of life.

Job Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree or 2+ years of professional experience, Best Buddies program experience a plus
• Ability to engage comfortably with individuals with IDD, addressing sensitive topics with empathy and professionalism
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to engage, support, balance and steward multiple relationships while guiding individuals toward success
• Basic skills in public speaking, group facilitation, and delivering engaging presentations
• Familiarity with Office 365 and a basic understanding of social media platforms
• Strong writing ability, attention to detail and proficiency in project and time management
• Capable of working autonomously while also collaborating effectively in a dynamic fast-paced environment
• Willingness to travel frequently within the local area and use a personal cell phone for work-related communication
• Fundraising events are a core part of the organization's success and require full staff participation, therefore, occasional weekend work may be necessary to support events and other initiatives throughout the year
• Access to an automobile with applicable insurance or other reliable transportation
• Employment is contingent upon state accreditation and the ability to obtain federal suitability clearance for the Ticket to Work Program

Job Duties include, but are not limited to: Programs

• Utilize a person-centered approach supporting individuals in job searching efforts in industries and opportunities that match their skills and interests, within their communities and based on transportation options available
• Upon job placement, the Employment Consultant provides the individual with support during orientation, onboarding and throughout the early stages of training with the goal of fostering an independent work environment and eventually fading support to quarterly contact
• Develop and maintain positive relationships with the individual, guardian when applicable, families, Vocational Rehabilitation counselors, ad ocates, and employers
• Identify natural suppor