Employment Specialist III

didlakecareers; Fairfax (VA); On-site; USD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health coverage

Dental/ Vision plans

Life Insurance/AD&D

401(k) with company match

Paid time off

Employee development program

Paid holidays

Job summary

Didlake, Inc. in Virginia is seeking an Employment Specialist III to empower individuals with disabilities toward meaningful, competitive employment and independence.

You will deliver direct services, job development, and coaching across Virginia, Maryland, and DC, using person-centered strategies and coordination with community partners. A strong emphasis on documentation and outcomes is required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree (education, rehab, social work, business) with at least 2 years of relevant experience; OR
• High school diploma with minimum 5 years of experience in supported employment or transition services.
• Experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in employment or residential settings.
• Experience with person-centered planning and individualized support strategies.

Responsibilities

• Provide in-person employment services including job development, placement, training, and follow-along support.
• Conduct vocational evaluations in real work settings (commercial or government environments).
• Support individuals through the full employment lifecycle: resume development, applications, interviews, job placement, and retention.
• Deliver one-on-one job coaching and facilitate natural supports in the workplace.
• Provide ongoing follow-along services to monitor performance, employer satisfaction, and support needs.

Skills

Travel daily

Strong communication

Interpersonal skills

Disability awareness

Education

Bachelor’s degree

High school diploma with 5+ years

Tools

Microsoft Office

Case management systems

Job description

$1,000.00 SIGN ON BONUS. Paid in increments of $250.00 each quarter (3,6,9 and 12 months of employment)

Didlake, Inc. is a non-profit rehabilitation services organization. At Didlake, creating opportunities that enrich the lives of people with disabilities is our mission. Since 1965, Didlake has served thousands of people with significant disabilities by providing training, job placement, employment opportunities, and day support services. We provide rewarding and purposeful work.

Why This Role Matters

The Employment Specialist III plays a critical role in empowering individuals with disabilities to achieve meaningful, competitive employment and greater independence. By providing individualized, community-based employment services, this role helps individuals build skills, confidence, and long-term connections that support full participation in their communities.

What You Will Do

Direct Service Delivery

• Provide in-person services including situational assessments, job development, placement, training, and follow-along support.
• Conduct vocational evaluations in real work settings (commercial or government environments).
• Support individuals through the full employment lifecycle: resume development, applications, interviews, job placement, and retention.
• Deliver one-on-one job coaching and facilitate natural supports in the workplace.
• Provide ongoing follow-along services to monitor performance, employer satisfaction, and support needs.
• Implement person-centered strategies to promote independence, self-advocacy, and long-term success.
• Provide travel training and coordinate transportation resources as needed.
• Deliver on-site job orientation and workplace readiness training.
• Utilize assistive technology and recommend environmental modifications.
• Provide crisis intervention when necessary.

Case Management & Documentation

• Manage an independent caseload, adjusting schedules to meet consumer needs.
• Develop, track, and maintain all required service plans, progress notes, and documentation.
• Monitor progress toward individualized goals through observation, data collection, and collaboration with stakeholders.
• Coordinate with Vocational Rehabilitation counselors, Community Services Boards, and other referral sources.
• Ensure compliance with CARF standards and regulations from DARS, DMAS, DBHDS, and SSA/Ticket to Work.
• Obtain and manage service authorizations prior to implementation.
• Complete intake and maintain ongoing communication with consumers and support systems.

Pre-Employment Transition Services

• Support students with disabilities through Work Readiness Training (WRT) and Work-Based Learning Experiences (WBLE).
• Assess individual strengths, interests, and career goals to guide employment pathways.

Administrative Responsibilities

• Accurately track billable and non-billable time.
• Submit timely and accurate documentation and billing in accordance with organizational procedures.
• Maintain compliance with all internal, accreditation, and regulatory requirements.
• Participate in team meetings and complete required training.

Marketing & Employer Engagement

• Build and maintain relationships with referral sources to generate new opportunities.
• Conduct outreach to employers across Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, DC.
• Develop job opportunities and coordinate interviews for consumers.
• Educate employers and coworkers on disability awareness and workplace inclusion.
• Represent the organization at job fairs, community events, and professional forums.
• Conduct employer satisfaction surveys and support continuous program improvement.

What You Bring

You bring experience providing employment services, job coaching, vocational assessments, and case management for individuals with disabilities. You have the ability to manage an independent caseload, build relationships with employers and community partners, and maintain accurate documentation while supporting individuals throughout the employment process.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in education, vocational rehabilitation, social work, business, or a related field with at least 2 years of relevant experience; OR
• High school diploma with a minimum of 5 years of experience in supported employment or transition services.
• Experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in employment or residential settings.
• Experience with person-centered planning and individualized support strategies.

Skills & Abilities

• Ability to travel daily within an assigned service area to provide in-person support for assigned cases.
• Have a valid driver's license and be insurable under Didlake's automobile policy. Requirements include - but are not limited to - a minimum of 3 years of licensed driving experience and be at least 21 years of age.
• Must have the ability to use a personal vehicle for travel; eligible for mileage reimbursement.
• Strong time management skills with the ability to independently manage a caseload of up to 40 individuals.
• Effective communication and relationship-building skills with diverse stakeholders.
• Knowledge of job development, coaching, and workplace accommodations.
• Ability to use positive, proactive behavior support techniques.
• Experience with marketing, outreach, and employer engagement.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and case management systems.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development (e.g., career counseling, autism support, assistive technology).
• Eligible for QDDP designation.

Benefits

• Health coverage for you and your family through Medical, Dental, Vision plans
• Life Insurance/AD&D
• Disability Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work and personal support
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match
• Paid time off and sick leave that begins accruing upon hire
• Employee Development Program (EDP)
• Paid holidays
• Direct deposit

Compensation will be determined based on skills, experience, and internal equity.