Employment Specialist

EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST (FULL-TIME)

Able South Carolina (Able SC) is South Carolina’s premier organization promoting disability rights, independence, and equity for individuals with disabilities. Serving throughout the state, Able SC promotes individual leadership, creative teamwork, and cultivates a shared pride in the future of an inclusive state. 

Able SC offers a competitive salary with benefits including health, dental, vision, life, Employee Assistance Program, and contribution to a retirement plan. Paid leave includes vacation, sick leave, and 21 holidays annually.

Purpose of the Position: As an Employment Specialist, you will champion the rights and independence of individuals with disabilities by partnering with consumers to help them identify, set, and achieve employment and financial literacy goals. You will empower consumers to take the lead in gaining financial stability through competitive, integrated employment. This position is under the direct delegation of the Director of Community Integration.

TO APPLY: Please email your cover letter and resume to jobs@able-sc.org. No phone calls, please. People with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
Location:  Columbia, SC
Hours: Full-time, Flexible work week 34-40 hours per week.
Salary Range: $42,000 to $53,000
Status: Non-Exempt

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES (with or without accommodations):

• Provide peer mentoring and individual advocacy to assist individuals with all types of disabilities with leading their career plans and financial goals. 
• Assist consumers with adjusting to their disabilities and developing disability pride. 
• Assist consumers in developing Independent Living Plans (ILPs) and Individual Work Plans (IWPs) per Social Security guidelines and keep updated consumer progress notes.
• Provide employment and financial literacy training and adapt strategies based on consumer needs.
• Facilitate peer support groups and offer ongoing support for active cases.
• Conduct monthly reporting, database entry, and document program activities. 
• Connect consumers to other Able SC programs as relevant.
• Advocate for consumer choice and consumer-driven interests in all situations.
• Ensure consumer records remain compliant for relevant external programs (i.e. Ticket to Work, SNAP2Work, etc.)  
• Educate consumers and community members on Independent Living (IL) philosophy and disability rights. 
• Participate in disability and employment-focused committees and work groups. 

• Research and refer consumers to appropriate and accessible community resources.
• Maintain and update the agency’s resource database with new adequate resources. 
• Attend staff meetings and workgroups, and pursue professional training opportunities.

• Stay informed regarding disability rights, disability justice, and any new trends around disability employment and financial literacy. 
• Protect consumer and organization information by adhering to confidentiality standards.
• Travel onsite to meet consumers at their homes or in the community.
• Complete additional assignments from supervisors promptly.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: None.

QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Services or other related fields. An equivalent combination of education and personal experience with disabilities may be substituted for a college degree.
• At least two years of documented experience working with persons with disabilities or personal experience with a disability is required.
• Knowledge of disability rights and IL philosophy is required.
• Knowledge of the service system, benefits, entitlements, and supports utilized by people with disabilities.
• Experience with working in teams to accomplish goals
• Working knowledge of community resources available to people with disabilities. Specific working knowledge of employment services, rights, and supports preferred.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in written form
• Must have reliable transportation
• Must be able to operate a computer
• Knowledge of assistive technology and related resources 
• Must have cleared or be able to clear Social Security’s security screening requirements

COMPETENCIES:

• Consumer Advocate

• An embodiment of IL Philosophy

• Knowledge of community resources/systems

• Professionalism

• Ethical, Integrity, Honesty

• Emotional Intelligence

• Interpersonal skills

• Personal Accountability/Self-motivated

• Clarity in Communication

• Attentive to details, high accuracy

• Time management/skilled at prioritizing tasks

• Ability to remain calm under pressure

• Creates a positive work environment; good team player

• Works independently 

• Ability to Motivate Others

• Social/Field Intelligence

• Case Management

• Prudent/Sound Judgment

• Conflict Management/De-escalation

• Identifies and Manages Risks

• Results Driven

• Commitment to Growth/Excellence

• Problem Solving/Multi-dimensional Thinker/Analytical

• Expertise in relevant laws (ADA, Fair Housing Act, Educational Rights, State Disability Laws)

• Stamina/Ability to finish long-term projects

• Consumer Motivation

• Persuasive Communication/Commands Respect

• Cultural Competency

• Confident and Engaging

• Creativity/Innovation

• Partnership Building/Builds Trust

• Provides consumer-driven services
• Demonstrates proficiency with cross-disability

Able South Carolina is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, gender, age, disability, religion, or national origin. People with disabilities are encouraged to apply.