Pre-ETS Site Developer

Agency Description:
DAWN Center for Independent Living (DAWNcil) is a grassroots consumer-driven and consumer controlled nonprofit organization promoting self-direction in order to create expand and implement equal access opportunities for people with disabilities. DAWNcil seeks a highly motivated enthusiastic outgoing self-starter to work within that mission to provide care management Information and Referral and Advocacy services to individuals with disabilities residing in Northern NJ.

Job Description:

Pre-ETS Site Developer:
The Pre- Employment Transition Services Site Developer is a member of the Pre-Employment Transition (Pre-ETS) and Independent Living (IL) collaboration with team members the Pre-ETS Site Developer is responsible for assisting in the identification and engagement of internship sites to support students with disabilities. This includes exploring various opportunities to engage in meaningful internship experiences which will facilitate a successful transition from high school to additional education training or competitive integrated employment opportunities. DAWNs Pre- ETS Services are designed to motivate students in grades 9-12 to pursue careers based on their skills and interests. The Pre-ETS Site Developer is also responsible for delivering life skills training and Independent Living (IL) services primarily but not exclusively to youth and young adults with disabilities residing in Morris Sussex and Warren counties. He/she will assist consumers to access the full scope of services offered by DAWN Center for Independent Living and assist in developing and promoting these programs and services.

Essential Duties:
Develop Internship sites for youth served under Pre-ETS programming based on appraisals of aptitude interests personality and other relevant vocational factors
Support youth and employers while on site at internships
Assess barriers/modifications at internship sites; educate employers on reasonable accommodations
Engage in the evaluation of the student while on their internship site and use the data to determine if changes are necessary
Participate in pre-employment transition sessions to learn more about each students interests and skills
Work collaboratively with Pre-ETS Site Coordinators to understand each students individualized educational/career plans based on the appraisals of aptitude interests personality and other relevant vocational factors determined during sessions.
Assist in the development coordination and implementation of activities including orientations workshops job shadowing site visits internship placements student seminars and career exploration trips in accordance with WIOA Guidelines and Guideposts
Gather information from the Site Coordinator about the students progress in identifying or establishing their career paths resume building job search interviewing techniques appropriate work habits and interpersonal skills necessary for success on a work site.
Work closely with local DVR offices (Division of Vocational Rehabilitation) to coordinate referrals assessments and additional services as needed Maintain positive constructive relationships with consumers educational systems referring agencies funding sources business community families and the community at large
Maintain detailed and accurate service records of all consumer contacts as per contractual obligations
Write compile and submit reports evaluations progress notes and other required documents in a timely manner
Facilitate workshops and public forums relating to services provided
Keep abreast of all local state and national policies initiatives programs and services relating to IL life skills and transition for people with disabilities (including employment policies/programs/initiatives) through relevant multi-media research and by participating in relevant activities and events
Produce content for newsletters and other publications or correspondence using current technologies and multi-media communications platforms
Assist with the completion of applications related to the transition process including but not limited to SSI Medicaid DDD Applications job and college applications.
Collaborate with agency staff in other program areas to ensure seamless support for consumers receiving other services in addition to Independent Living
Facilitate distribution of consumer/education/and employment satisfaction surveys
Assist with advocacy efforts pertinent to consumer base
Complete all required webinars and trainings
Attend all staff meetings in-services agency-wide events and trainings as required

Non-Essential Duties:
Conduct outreach efforts to create an awareness of Independent Living Transition and Employment readiness topics best practices and challenges relative to youth in transition and individuals with disabilities.
Provide statistical and other input for the development of annual and long-range plans.
Performance of other non-essential assigned duties and tasks

Required Knowledge/Skills/Attributes:
Knowledge of and support for the Independent Living Philosophy;
Ability to successfully relate to and communicate with people with disabilities their families other organizations agencies volunteers and consumers
Possess strong and effective spoken and written communication skills to promote this program to potential employers community members families and schools
Knowledge of programs and services benefits entitlements and supports available to persons with disabilities as needed;
Experience using Windows editions 8-10 including expertise in utilizing: Outlook; Skype; Microsoft Word/ Excel PowerPoint Publisher
Strong team player willing to take direction initiate business activities and work with management staff and peers;
Self-starter able to work with minimal supervision/direction;
Professional demeanor and presentation;
Creative thinker using sound judgment in workload coordination and in technical matters;
Ability to organize work effectively and establish priorities
Ability to meet or exceed deadlines;
Ability to make decisions and implement activities impacting the organizations well being
Ability to manage moderate to high levels of stress.

Education and Experience:
Bachelors Degree in Education or a Social Services field - and a minimum of one year of experience providing supported employment or employment readiness services to youth with disabilities.
Previous experience working with individuals with disabilities required.

Benefits/Comments:
Full time position Monday through Friday. Mileage reimbursement is provided. Professional development and continued learning opportunities offered. Benefits include employer sponsored health benefits paid time off sick days and paid holidays. Employee access to group rates for optional vision dental and life insurance benefits and 401K retirement plan. Job contingent upon proof of a valid driver license and proof of auto insurance coverage limits of at least $100000 / $300000.
Compensation: $47000 to $53000 annually

DAWN Center for Independent Living is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Detailed cover letter and resume required for application to be complete. Resumes must be emailed to or via fax to . No phone calls.