Supported Employment - Employment Specialist

IKUS Life Enrichment Services; Grand Rapids (MI); Hybrid; USD 22,000 - 28,000; Part time

Job summary

IKUS Life Enrichment Services seeks a passionate Supported Employment Job Coach to help adults with disabilities find and excel in meaningful jobs. The role blends office, remote, and field work, with a caseload-driven schedule and direct collaboration with employers and families.

Responsibilities include personalized career planning, PCP participation, and ongoing documentation, while promoting independence, inclusion, and rights in the workplace.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Rehabilitation, Psychology preferred, but equivalent experience is also considered.
• Strong empathy and patience with individuals who may face workplace challenges.
• Excellent written and verbal communication; ability to motivate diverse individuals.
• Excellent time management and organizational abilities to handle multiple clients.

Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of 15+ individuals and adapt scheduling to client needs.
• Assist with Personalized Career Planning to align opportunities with strengths and goals.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with employers to support inclusive workplaces.
• Attend referral and intake meetings, PCP sessions, and related planning meetings.
• Document progress, goals, and accommodations; ensure HIPAA compliance and organizational procedures.
• Maintain regular communication with individuals, families, educators, and Supports Coordinators.
• Advocate for rights and needs of individuals in the workplace and promote inclusion.
• Take on additional duties as assigned by the Supported Employment Manager.

Skills

Empathy

Patience

Communication

Organization

Independence

Driver's license

Education

Bachelor’s degree or related field

Equivalent experience considered

Job description

Flexible Scheduling

Hybrid – Office, Remote, and Field/Community

Part Time and Full Time Opportunities

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of adults with disabilities? As a Supported Employment Job Coach, you will play a crucial role in helping individuals with disabilities find, secure, and excel in meaningful employment. Your support will empower them to achieve greater independence, build confidence, and contribute to their communities.

Key Responsibilities

• Scheduling: Adapt to the needs of your clients, managing a caseload of 15+ individuals
• Personalized Career Planning: Work closely with individuals to understand their strengths, interests, and goals. Assist them in identifying suitable job opportunities that align with their skills and aspirations.
• Employer Collaboration: Build and maintain positive relationships with employers, acting as a liaison to ensure a supportive and accommodating work environment for individuals with disabilities.
• Collaborative Meetings: Participate in referral and intake meetings, Person-Centered Planning (PCP) sessions, and other relevant meetings.
• Documentation and Reporting: Participate in the Person-Centered Planning (PCP) process and maintain accurate records of progress, goals, and any accommodations needed. Ensure compliance with organizational procedures, HIPAA, and Recipient Rights.
• Comprehensive Communication: Maintain regular communication with individuals, their families, educators, and Supports Coordinators.
• Advocacy and Empowerment: Advocate for the rights and needs of individuals with disabilities in the workplace, promoting inclusivity and understanding among employers and colleagues.
• Additional Duties: Take on other responsibilities as assigned by the Supported Employment Manager.

Qualifications

• Empathy and Patience: A compassionate and patient approach to working with individuals who may face unique challenges in the workplace.
• Education: A Bachelor’s degree in a related field (e.g., Social Work, Rehabilitation, Psychology) is preferred, but equivalent experience in job coaching or working with individuals with disabilities is also considered.
• Supervisory: Experience as a supervisor is a plus but not required.
• Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively support and motivate individuals with diverse needs.
• Organizational Skills: Excellent time management and organizational abilities to manage multiple clients and tasks simultaneously.
• Experience: Prior experience in supported employment, vocational counseling, or working with adults with disabilities is highly desirable.
• Independence: Ability to work autonomously with minimal supervision while maintaining a collaborative mindset.
• Valid Driver’s License: Must hold a valid driver’s license with a good driving record as per organizational policy.

Position Information

Job Type: Part-time with potential for growth to full-time

Schedule: Flexibility to include hours employers and employees are available.

Pay: $16.50 with additional Direct Care Wage bump of $3.40 when working directly with the individuals.

Reports to: Supported Employment Manager

For more information about our company, visit ikuslife.org. EOE