IDD Employment Coach & Independence Advocate

Allied Community Care; Frederick (MD); Hybrid; USD 23,000 - 32,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible daytime schedule

Job summary

Allied Community Care seeks an Employment Specialist to provide one-on-one support for adults with IDD, helping assess readiness, develop career plans, and connect them with local job opportunities. The role is part-time with potential to become full-time and involves virtual, community, and travel activities in Frederick, MD.

You will assist with resume writing, mock interviews, and travel training, while partnering with employers and service partners to promote inclusion and successful

Qualifications

• Minimum an Associate degree with 5+ years of relevant experience in IDD services, case management, or housing support
• Experience with knowledge of workforce development, vocational rehabilitation, job placement, or career counseling
• Valid Maryland driver’s license with a clean driving record and reliable transportation.
• ACRE and/or CSEP certification preferred

Responsibilities

• Maintain an active assignment list of individuals receiving services through DDA who are seeking competitive employment
• Conduct a comprehensive assessment to understand each person’s strengths, needs, preferences, support systems, and employment interests
• Complete intake assessments to determine employment readiness, barriers, and vocational goals
• Develop individualized employment plans in collaboration with each person supported
• Prepare professional vocational profiles to guide the job development process
• Visit and engage local community to identify and negotiate work experiences (informational interviews, job shadows, situational assessments, job tryouts)
• Identify job openings aligned with each client’s skills, interests, and career goals
• Build and maintain strong relationships with employers, community organizations, and workforce partners
• Attend community events, job fairs, and networking opportunities to promote the agency and expand employment opportunities
• Advocate for individuals with IDD and help negotiate job offers and accommodations when needed
• Provide support with resume writing, job application completion, and career exploration
• Conduct mock interviews, role‑playing, and workplace etiquette training to build confidence and increase job readiness
• Provide travel training to help individuals gain independence in commuting to and from work
• Deliver on-site and off-site job coaching to ensure successful integration and retention
• Provide systematic instruction to teach job tasks, build workplace routines, and promote independence
• Collaborate with employers to develop support fade-out plans and ensure long‑term success.
• Support clients in developing positive workplace relationships with coworkers and supervisors.
• Complete all required documentation including daily notes, attendance records, employment forms, and progress updates.
• Track measurable outcomes such as employment placements, retention, and skill development.
• Prepare and submit reports for internal teams, DDA, and other stakeholders.
• Participate in internal and external meetings to support client success and program growth.
• Maintain strong communication with all team members involved in a person’s support network.
• Complete and pass all required training, including ACRE and/or the CESP certification, and renew training as required.
• Engage in ongoing learning and professional development opportunities.

Education

Associate degree

5+ years of relevant experience (IDD services, case management, or housing support)

Job description

Allied Community Care seeks an Employment Specialist to provide one-on-one support for adults with IDD, helping assess readiness, develop career plans, and connect them with local job opportunities. The role is part-time with potential to become full-time and involves virtual, community, and travel activities in Frederick, MD.

You will assist with resume writing, mock interviews, and travel training, while partnering with employers and service partners to promote inclusion and successful