Transition and Vocational Program Specialist

University of Iowa; Iowa City (IA); On-site; USD 53,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Iowa is seeking a Transition and Vocational Program Specialist to support youth with disabilities through individualized planning and instructional programming. This full-time role includes managing projects, teaching, and building employer partnerships, crucial for fostering student independence and successful transitions into post-secondary paths.

Benefits

Paid vacation

Sick leave

Health insurance options

Generous retirement contributions

Qualifications

• 1 year of experience working with youth and individuals with disabilities.
• Demonstrated leadership skills required.
• Proficiency with virtual learning platforms.

Responsibilities

• Lead curriculum development for programs.
• Coordinate housing logistics and staff training.
• Build employer partnerships for job opportunities.

Skills

Communication

Leadership

Organizational Skills

Adaptability

Education

Bachelor's degree in education, rehabilitation, social work, or a related field

Tools

Learning Management Systems

Microsoft Office

Job description

The Transition and Vocational Program Specialist supports UI REACH & youth with disabilities through individualized transition planning, career development, and instructional programming. This full-time, 12-month role coordinates initiatives like Project EXPLORE and the Bridge Summer Program and teaches in-person and virtual classes. The specialist also builds employer partnerships, facilitates onboarding, and provides case management. Strong communication, leadership, and organizational skills are essential. A valid driver’s license is required for travel related to camps and outreach. This position plays a key role in fostering student independence, engagement, and successful post-secondary transitions.

This is a 12- month full time specified term position. May be eligible for renewal.

Location: Iowa City, Iowa. Remote work is not available

Specific Job Duties and Tasks:

• Lead the creation and implementation of the Minors on Campus Handbook and Procedures, ensuring compliance with university policies and safety standards.
• Obtain institutional approval and launch the Project EXPLORE Minor on Campus Program, including curriculum development and lesson planning.
• Oversee housing logistics, staff recruitment, and training.
• Design and implement structured daily and evening programming.
• Provide individualized support for students transitioning out of the UI REACH program.
• Supervise Year 4 student internships and assist with career planning.
• Plan and facilitate monthly onboarding sessions for incoming students.
• Teach both in-person and virtual classes using learning management systems (e.g., ICON, Canvas).
• Build and maintain employer partnerships to create internship, job shadowing, and employment opportunities tailored to students’ and alumni’s career interests.
• Act as liaison from UI REACH to campus and community partners for youth and alumni initiatives.
• Support hiring and training of seasonal staff.
• Assist with logistical planning, including accommodations and meals.

To obtain the full job description including key areas of responsibility, technical competencies, and desirable qualifications, please contact [e-mail]

Education Requirement:

• A Bachelor's degree in education, rehabilitation, social work, or a related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Required Qualifications:

• Demonstrated experience working with youth and individuals with disabilities in educational or transitional settings. Typical experience minimum is 1 year.
• Demonstrated leadership skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Must be proficient in computer software applications.
• Ability to manage and organize multiple programs simultaneously and adapt to evolving needs.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and meet and maintain the UI Risk Management driving requirements.
• Proficiency with virtual learning platforms and student information systems.

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience job developing for persons with disabilities and maintaining effective relationships with employers.
• Teaching or informal instructional experience with students with autism spectrum disorders, developmental disabilities, and/or learning disabilities.

Application Details

In order to be considered for an interview, applicants must upload:

• Resume
• Cover Letter

Job openings are posted for a minimum of 14 calendar days. This job may be removed from posting and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended. Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check and credential/education verification.5 professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process.

For questions, contact Alex Schutman at [e-mail]

Benefits Highlights

• Regular salaried position. Pay Level 4A .Located in Iowa City, Iowa.
  Fringe benefit package including paid vacation; sick leave; health, dental, life and disability insurance options; and generous employer contributions into retirement plans.
  For more information about Why Iowa?Click here.

Additional Information

• Classification Title: Educ Supp Svcs Specialist
• Appointment Type: Professional and Scientific
• Schedule: Full-time
• Work Modality Options: On Campus

Compensation

• Pay Level: 4A
• Starting Salary Minimum: 53,000.00
• Starting Salary Maximum: Commensurate

Contact Information

• Organization: College of Education
• Contact Name: Alex Schutman
• Contact Email: [e-mail]