Team Employment Specialist

Do you have a passion for helping individuals build brighter futures through meaningful employment? Easterseals Iowa is looking for compassionate and energetic Employment Specialists to join our team in collaboration with Des Moines Public School District. 

In this role, you will work directly with students and their families, guiding them on their path toward career readiness and independence. As an Employment Specialist, you will collaborate with a wide range of partners, including Des Moines Public Schools, Iowa Vocational Rehabilitation, and local businesses, to create impactful employment opportunities. Our current opening is for Ruby Van Meter, a specialized public school within the Des Moines Community School District, serving students ages 12–21 with significant intellectual disabilities and high support needs through personalized instruction and support.   

What You'll Do:

• Empower Students: Teach employability and career readiness skills through engaging activities and curriculum, ensuring students are equipped with the tools to succeed in the workplace.
• Hands-On Job Support: Assist students with everything from job applications and résumé building to interview preparation, drug testing, and workplace behavior, offering personalized guidance every step of the way.
• Coordinate Career Development: Organize and support job shadows, informational interviews, internships, and job placements, building strong partnerships with local businesses to create meaningful work experiences for students.
• Transportation Training: Provide essential transportation training, helping students navigate public transportation, understand routes, bus fares, and practice transportation safety.
• Ongoing Advocacy & Support: Monitor participants' progress in the workplace, provide continuous support, and ensure they meet their career goals while reinforcing workplace culture, safety, and best practices.
• Collaborate with the Team: Work closely with parents, school coordinators, vocational counselors, and other team members to ensure a seamless support system for each student. You may also attend and provide input during student progress meetings.
• Prepare for Post-Secondary Success: Assist students in planning their educational futures, from enrolling in classes and applying for financial aid to requesting accommodations.

What You'll Bring:

• Excellent Communication Skills: Ability to effectively engage with students, families, businesses, and team members in both written and verbal formats.
• A Team Player Attitude: Ability to collaborate within a team environment while managing multiple responsibilities independently.
• Knowledge of Job Market Trends and a passion for helping students navigate the evolving world of work.
• Self-motivation: Experience in business development, including making cold calls and establishing strong community connections, is a plus.

Why Work with Us?

Easterseals Iowa is committed to fostering an inclusive, supportive, and empowering environment for both our staff and the individuals we serve. By joining our team, you will be making a direct impact on the lives of students, helping them to build confidence, develop essential life skills, and realize their full potential in the workforce! You will also be eligible for our full time benefits package including:

• Medical, dental, vision, employer paid life insurance/accidental death and dismemberment/long term disability insurance, and a 403(b) Tax Deferred Retirement Plan offered to all full-time employees
• 20 days of PTO in the first year, increasing to 25 days of PTO in the second year, that we not only let you take, but expect you to take off!
• A culture that promotes from within for advancement opportunities
• A supportive and flexible team working environment

Join Us in Making a Difference!

At Easterseals Iowa, we strive to empower individuals with disabilities and other challenges to achieve independence and live fulfilling lives. As an Employment Specialist, you'll be part of a mission-driven team working to remove barriers and create opportunities for everyone.

Application process consists of 1st phone interview with Recruitment & Talent Development Coordinator before scheduling a 2nd Team Leader interview.

Reliable transportation for work-related travel. (Mileage reimbursement is offered)

Ability to work flexible hours, including some evenings and weekends.

Insurability under Easterseals vehicle policy and access to a telephone for support needs.

A bachelor's degree in human services, sociology, psychology, education, or a related field, or equivalent experience preferred but not required.