Transition Specialist - Vocational Services

Socket.dev; Brick Township (NJ); On-site; USD 28,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

The Arc of Ocean County seeks a Transition Services Specialist to help adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities develop practical skills, explore employment possibilities, and become more confident navigating their communities. This hands-on role focuses on individualized instruction, coaching, and real-world practice in collaboration with families, employers, and community partners.

You'll work to support participants through community-based experiences, transportation needs, and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Psychology, Social Work, Rehabilitation Services, Special Education, or a closely related field.

Responsibilities

• Provide individualized instruction in employment preparation, communication, independent living, and interpersonal skills.
• Develop activities and learning opportunities that encourage confidence, responsibility, accountability, and achievement.
• Adapt teaching methods and instruction to accommodate each participant's abilities, learning style, and individual support needs.
• Encourage individuals to advocate for themselves, make personal choices, and take greater responsibility for their own goals and independence.

Skills

Instruction

Coaching

Interpersonal skills

Communication

Community outreach

Education

Bachelor's degree in Human Services

Job description

Help People Build Skills for Work, Independence, and Community Life

The Arc of Ocean County is seeking a Transition Services Specialist to support adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities as they develop practical skills, explore employment possibilities, and become more confident navigating their communities.

This is a hands-on, community-focused role. You'll provide individualized instruction and coaching, help participants practice skills in real-world settings, and connect them with opportunities to explore work and community involvement. You'll also work with employers, families, coworkers, and community partners to create experiences that support each individual's goals.

Position at a Glance

Location: Brick, New Jersey
Department: Vocational
Employment Type: Full-Time
Schedule: Monday-Friday | 8:00 AM-4:00 PM
Starting Pay: $21.50 per hour
Paid On-the-Job Training Provided

Where You'll Make an ImpactTeach Skills That Support Independence

• Provide individualized instruction in employment preparation, communication, independent living, and interpersonal skills.
• Develop activities and learning opportunities that encourage confidence, responsibility, accountability, and achievement.
• Adapt teaching methods and instruction to accommodate each participant's abilities, learning style, and individual support needs.
• Encourage individuals to advocate for themselves, make personal choices, and take greater responsibility for their own goals and independence.

Create Real-World Learning Experiences

• Support participants as they take part in volunteer opportunities, career exploration, and other community-based learning activities.
• Help individuals practice workplace expectations, professional conduct, and effective communication in actual community and employment environments.
• Develop positive working relationships with employers, businesses, and community organizations to support meaningful opportunities.
• Safely transport participants in agency vehicles to program locations and community activities.

Keep Individual Goals at the Center

• Support participants in working toward objectives identified in their Individual Service Plans (ISPs).
• Participate in interdisciplinary team meetings and provide observations and updates regarding participant progress.
• Complete daily service records, progress notes, medication administration records, incident reports, and other required documentation accurately and within established timelines.
• Use positive behavior support strategies and respond appropriately as individual needs and circumstances change.

Provide Safe, Respectful Support

• Administer medications in accordance with agency policies and applicable regulations.
• Follow individualized health, behavioral, nutritional, and adaptive support plans.
• Promote dignity, respect, inclusion, and personal choice in all interactions and services.
• Follow agency expectations, safety procedures, and program requirements.

Why This Role Matters

Progress can happen in many forms-learning how to communicate in a workplace, practicing a new independent-living skill, successfully navigating a community activity, or taking the first step toward employment.

As a Transition Services Specialist, you'll have the opportunity to be part of those moments. Your coaching, encouragement, and consistency can help participants build practical skills and experience that carry into their everyday lives.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Psychology, Social Work, Rehabilitation Services, Special Education, or a closely related field.

Professional Requirements

• Valid New Jersey driver's license with a satisfactory driving record (five points or fewer).
• Excellent communication, organizational, and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with coworkers, families, employers, and community partners.
• Flexibility to participate in community-based programming throughout Ocean County.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry at least 25 pounds when necessary.
• Ability to assist individuals with mobility-related needs.
• Ability to travel throughout the community and actively participate in off-site programming.

Training, Support & Career Development

You'll receive support to help you become successful in the role, including:

• Comprehensive onboarding and paid training
• Professional development in vocational supports, person-centered planning, and behavioral strategies
• Opportunities for advancement throughout Vocational, Community, and Residential Services
• Supportive leadership and collaborative team environment

The Arc of Ocean County offers:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Low Deductible Health Plans with $0 Copay Options
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with Agency Matching
• Paid Time Off and Holiday Pay
• Paid On-the-Job Training
• Tuition Reimbursement Opportunities
• Employee Referral Bonus Program
• Supplemental Benefit Options

Your Next Step Could Make a Difference

If you're looking for a position where you can combine teaching, coaching, community involvement, and employment support, consider bringing your skills to The Arc of Ocean County. Help participants build confidence, develop practical skills, and work toward greater independence- one experience at a time.