Employment Specialist

The Employment Specialist is responsible for facilitating integrated, competitive employment services for the agency, working closely with day program personnel and employers. 

Schedule:

• 8 am - 5 pm on Monday through Friday with flexibility to attend evening and weekend events, as needed
  

Brief Overview of Responsibilities:

• Develop a rapport and knowledge of the local businesses within our community via employer outreach, participating in networking activities and then use this information to develop and maintain a resource map for each county identifying potential sources of volunteer work, internship opportunities, and work opportunities.


• Be familiar with work incentives available to protect access to public benefits for individuals seeking and engaged in  integrated competitive employment.


• Educate local businesses/employers on the benefits of hiring individuals with disabilities.


• Understand and stay up-to-date on legislation and regulations related to employment policies and services including, but not limited to, Illinois employment first policy, American with Disabilities Act, Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), Rehabilitation Act, Fair Labor Standards Act, Illinois labor laws/regulations, Olmstead, HCBS Settings, the Illinois Dignity in Pay Act, Illinois Rule 119 and 116, and other applicable rules/regulations.


• Work with agency QIDPs to initiate and complete the discovery and assessment process in order to develop a vocational profile and career development strategy for every individual served in Community Day Services (CDS).


• Develop an understanding of the difference between Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), and the impact of wages on SSI, SSDI, state and local benefits (i.e. SNAP, TANF, Housing), Medicaid, and Medicare. 


• Follow proper procedures and maintain appropriate records to ensure that the placement program is in total compliance with the Division of Rehabilitation Services.


• Monitor individuals placed in competitive positions to ensure a smooth transition and provide support to individual and communication with the employer.

Requirements:

• A Bachelor's Degree in a human services or business-related field is preferred.
  


• Experience in sales or a business-related field is preferred. 


• Experience working with individuals with disabilities is preferred.


• Must complete training to become ACRE certified within the first year of employment.


• Must possess a valid driver's license.


• Must pass a criminal background check, as required by the Healthcare Worker Background Check Act (225 ILCS 46), and a DCFS CANTS background check.


• Experience using software including Microsoft Office programs, such as Excel and Word.
  

Earning Potential:

$50,000 per year

Pay Schedule:

• Every two weeks with direct deposit available upon request

Benefits:

• Paid Time Off


• Paid Holidays


• Health, Disability, and Life Insurance


• Dental and Vision Insurance (optional)


• Flexible Spending Account (optional)


• Profit-Sharing


• Employee Assistance Program


• 403 (b) Investment Plan (option)


• Direct Deposit

Questions? Contact us at (217) 348-0127 ext. 607 or text  (501) 203-9636

Visit Us at ccarindustries.org  or facebook.com/ccarindustries