Transition Specialist - Gateway Program

 Transition Specialist – Gateway Program

United Cerebral Palsy of Northwest Missouri
Full-time | Non-exempt | Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Make a Lasting Impact. Help Young Adults Thrive.

Are you passionate about supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities as they take the next steps into adulthood? Join United Cerebral Palsy of Northwest Missouri (UCP) as a Transition Specialist and help shape the future of our innovative Gateway Program—a bold new initiative designed to empower recent high school graduates in Buchanan County.

As a key member of our team, you'll help build a new model for post-secondary transition—one focused on life skills, career development, academic enrichment, and true community integration. If you're looking for meaningful work, growth opportunities, and the chance to truly make a difference, this role is for you.

Position Overview

Reporting to the Executive Director and Adult Program Director, the Transition Specialist will play a lead role in developing and implementing the Gateway Program, launching in Fall 2026. During the 2025–2026 school year, you'll guide the program through its development phase—including curriculum design, partnership-building, and student recruitment.

What is the Gateway Program?

An innovative two-year transition program located at Missouri Western State University (MWSU), designed for high school graduates with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Key Features:

• Two-year program      with academic year schedule
• 1:4 instructor-to-student ratio
• Focused on:
  • Academic enrichment
  • Career development
  • Life & social skills
  • Independent living
• Internship opportunities and person-centered planning
• Operates on MWSU’s academic calendar (Mon–Thurs, 9 AM–3      PM; Fridays for planning)
• Optional six-week summer session (9 AM–12 PM)

Key Responsibilities

Program Development (2025–2026):

• Design curriculum, lesson plans, and weekly schedules
• Build applied learning opportunities in partnership      with MWSU faculty
• Develop community-based internships
• Recruit high school seniors and their families

Program Implementation (2026–2027 and Beyond):

• Serve as the primary liaison between UCP and MWSU
• Support students through intake, orientation, and daily      instruction
• Customize lesson plans based on Individual Support      Plans (ISP)
• Facilitate internships and track student progress
• Maintain communication with students, families, and      service coordinators
• Document daily progress and submit monthly reports

Collaboration & Communication:

• Coordinate with MWSU professors and students
• Foster strong relationships with partners: Progressive      Community Services, Vocational Rehabilitation, and St. Joseph School      District
• Work closely with referral sources and participate in      eligibility review committees

Ongoing Responsibilities:

• Maintain accurate records and billing
• Ensure student files and documentation are up to date
• Conduct graduate follow-ups
• Attend staff meetings, trainings, and workshops
• Perform other duties as assigned

What You’ll Need to Succeed

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field preferred
• Experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities
• First Aid & CPR certified
• Valid Class E Driver’s License and auto insurance as required by state law

Skills & Competencies:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities
• Excellent organizational and documentation skills
• Commitment to person-centered planning
• Ability to collaborate effectively as part of a team
• Reliable transportation and clean driving record

Partnerships That Power the Program

The Gateway Initiative is funded by Progressive Community Services and supported through a unique partnership with Missouri Western State University. By integrating into a university setting, Gateway students gain greater access to community resources while also providing real-world learning experiences for MWSU students. Future collaborations with local businesses will offer hands-on internship opportunities, further preparing students for employment and independent living.

Equal Opportunity Employer

UCP of Northwest Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome all applicants, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, marital status, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic.

Apply Today. Help Build the Future.

Ready to be part of something transformative? Join us in building a brighter, more inclusive future—one student at a time.

 What You’ll Need to SucceedRequired Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field preferred
• Experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities
• First Aid & CPR certified
• Valid Class E Driver’s License and auto insurance as required by state law

Skills & Competencies:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities
• Excellent organizational and documentation skills
• Commitment to person-centered planning
• Ability to collaborate effectively as part of a team
• Reliable transportation and clean driving record