The Employment Specialist/DSP position is responsible for assisting individuals with disabilities in obtaining competitive, integrated employment. Successful DSP, Employment Specialists have a strong foundation in job development techniques, as well as an in-depth understanding of customized employment. The DSP, Employment Specialist, must use a person-centered approach when working with job seekers, establishing rapport and assisting them in discovering individual interests, talents, and support needs. OBI’s team of DSP, Employment Specialists, are expected to maintain a working knowledge of appropriate workplace accommodations, as well as resources that employers can access such as tax credits and free or low-cost tools. This role is responsible for advocating for employment of individuals with disabilities and must be comfortable discussing the importance of hiring individuals with disabilities to employers. This is a remote position that is expected to spend significant time in the community building partnerships with local businesses.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities

• Provide high quality discovery and job development services that result in competitive, integrated employment opportunities for the individuals we support.
• Utilize a person-centered approach to develop an individualized Job Development Plan for each job seeker.
• Using a variety of methods, assist individuals with disabilities in discovering career interests, talents/strengths, areas in need of further development, and support needs.
• Assist individuals in achieving employment goals, documenting all activities and progress as required (i.e., iCare logs for DDA-funded individuals; monthly DORS reports, etc.).
• Develop job placement, business engagement and referral source opportunities in Anne Arundel and surrounding counties.
• Maintain ongoing, up-to-date records of all business contacts to assist in expanding OBI’s network of employer partners.
• Establish relationships with other appropriate community nonprofits and service providers, to collaborate and share resources.
• Establish and maintain working relationships with the business community, local DORS offices and Coordinators of Community Services (CCS) to generate referrals and opportunities.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of community needs, employment trends, and best practices and emerging practices in the field of job development and placement for individuals with disabilities.
• Assist with the development and implementation of work readiness and other skills-based training programs offered by OBI.
• Maintain compliance with all OBI, DDA, OHCQ, and DORS policies and regulations at all times.
• Actively participate in regular meetings with the Employment Services team.
• Assist participants in developing professional resumes and cover letters, tailored to the types of job they are seeking.
• Professionally represent OBI during all business interactions, including at business/networking events, individual employer visits, PCP meetings, internal and external trainings, and within the broader community.
• Provide transportation to individuals as needed (i.e., taking individuals to interviews, discovery, community exploration, etc.)
• Driving your own personal vehicle and/or an agency vehicle to provide community and/or employment transportation to the participants.

Non-Essential Duties

• Attend external meetings, conferences and trainings as requested by supervisor.
• Additional responsibilities as assigned by the Manager, Workforce Development Services.
• Daily adherence to OBI’s core values:

                       o Communication & Collaboration

                       o Integrity

                       o Creativity

                       o Diversity & Inclusion

                       o Compassion & Respect

Qualifications

• Minimum of 1 year of successful experience working in a vocational setting with individuals who have disabilities; experience may include but is not limited to: vocational rehabilitation, work readiness instruction, marketing/staffing/business relations, apprenticeships leading to employment, etc.
• High school diploma or equivalent required; bachelor’s degree in a related field preferred.
• Strong written communication to support tasks such as resume writing and employer communication.
• Valid Driver’s license, clean driving record and 3+ years driving experience.
• Must possess a vehicle that will pass OBI’s transportation safety check as well as proper insurance coverage of vehicle.
• Ability to perform and meet job and physical requirements.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and a broad understanding of (or ability to learn about) technology that supports workforce development and/or virtual service delivery, including apps such as ICare, Zoom and Google Voice.

• Must take and pass the Certified Employment Services Professional (CESP) exam and maintain CESP certification.

                    o This is required by the DDA; therefore, the ability to serve in this position is contingent on         receiving and maintaining this certification.

Physical Requirements
The basic physical requirements described here are representative of those that may be required as needed in the position of a DSP, Employment Specialist.

• Lifting/transferring approximately 50 to 100 pounds (usually with assistance).
• Pushing/pulling (i.e. wheelchair) 100 pounds.
• Frequent standing; walking; sitting; squatting; bending; reaching; fine motor skills.