Job Development Specialist

All Star; Norwalk (CT); On-site; USD 35,000 - 37,000; Full time

Job summary

STAR, Inc. in Norwalk, CT is seeking a motivated Job Development Specialist to help individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities explore meaningful employment. You will build relationships with local employers, identify opportunities, and connect candidates with roles aligned to their strengths and goals.

This full-time position offers a collaborative, community-focused environment. Join a team dedicated to inclusion and independence, and help expand opportunities for people to

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required.
• Experience in job development, employment services, or job placement.
• Experience with customized employment practices is a plus.
• Commitment to inclusive employment and belief that individuals with IDD can succeed.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building with employers and partners.

Responsibilities

• Creating individualized job development plans based on each person's interests and goals.
• Establishing and maintaining partnerships with area businesses to identify openings.
• Conducting employer outreach through cold calls, in-person visits, referrals, and networking.
• Collaborating with individuals and support teams throughout the employment search process.
• Identifying opportunities that promote independence, inclusion, and meaningful participation.
• Advocating for inclusive employment practices with employers.

Skills

Relationship-building

Employer outreach

Communication

Community partnerships

Project planning

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

Pay Rate: $25.75-26.75/hour STAR, Inc. is seeking a motivated and relationship-oriented Job Development Specialist to help individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities explore meaningful employment opportunities. The ideal candidate enjoys building community partnerships, identifying employer needs, and connecting people with jobs that align with their individual strengths, interests, and goals.

About STAR, Inc.

For more than 70 years, STAR, Inc. has provided services and support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families in the Norwalk, CT area and beyond. As a nonprofit organization, we are committed to helping the individuals we support lead fulfilling lives, pursue their goals, and participate fully in their communities. Our work is rooted in the values of inclusion, independence, and freedom of choice.

What You'll Do as a Job Development Specialist

In this role, you will collaborate with individuals and their support teams to identify employment goals and develop pathways toward successful, rewarding careers. You'll build relationships with local employers, learn about available opportunities, and match candidates with positions that reflect their abilities and aspirations.

Responsibilities Include

• Getting to know each individual's interests, talents, skills, and employment goals to create an individualized job development plan.
• Establishing and maintaining partnerships with area businesses to identify potential job openings and employment opportunities.
• Conducting employer outreach through cold calls, in-person visits, referrals, community networking, and other creative approaches.
• Working collaboratively with individuals and their support teams throughout the employment search process.
• Identifying opportunities that promote independence, inclusion, and meaningful participation in the workforce.
• Advocating for inclusive employment practices and helping employers recognize the value and potential of a diverse workforce.

This is an opportunity to make a lasting impact by helping individuals achieve greater independence, build confidence, and experience the pride that comes with meaningful employment. The successful candidate will share STAR's belief that everyone who wants to work deserves the opportunity to explore employment that is right for them.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required.
• Previous experience in job development, employment services, or job placement.
• Experience with customized employment practices is a plus.
• A strong commitment to inclusive employment and the belief that individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities can succeed in the workplace.
• Excellent communication and relationship‑building skills, with the ability to connect with employers and community partners.

Schedule

Full-time position, 35 hours per week, Monday through Friday, with a one-half-hour unpaid lunch break.

Interested in Making a Difference?

Join a team that is passionate about expanding opportunities and helping individuals reach their employment goals. If you enjoy connecting people, building community relationships, and creating opportunities for others to succeed, the application process takes approximately five minutes.

STAR, Inc. is an Affir