Employment Specialist Supported Employment & Customized (Individual) Employment

Encouraging Development Inc. (EDI) is a Colorado Program-Approved Service Agency serving adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities under the HCBS-DD and HCBS-SLS Medicaid waivers. We are expanding our employment services, and Customized Employment is our primary way of helping people find work that fits who they are. Our job development program includes hands-on training at Grace Farm & Gardens, an inclusive working farm in Jefferson County. The Employment Specialist partners one-on-one with job seekers to discover their strengths, interests, and conditions for success, then works with local employers to create or negotiate jobs that match. You will guide each person from Discovery through job placement, on-the-job coaching, and a planned fade to natural supports. • Lead the Discovery process: get to know each job seeker at home, in the community, and through informational interviews and work tryouts • Develop a vocational profile and an individualized employment plan with the job seeker, family or guardian, and support team • Build relationships with employers; negotiate customized job descriptions, job carving, and task restructuring • Provide on-site job coaching and systematic instruction, and create and follow a written fading plan from day one • Deliver Colorado DVR vendor services and document milestones; coordinate with DVR counselors and Case Management Agencies • Coordinate with benefits planners so job seekers understand how earnings affect their benefits • Support prevocational and job development activities, including certificate training sessions at Grace Farm & Gardens • Complete accurate, timely service notes and time sheets in Therap, and maintain the state Employment Profile Packet and related HCPF documentation • Transport job seekers to interviews, tryouts, and job sites as needed. Qualifications: Required: • At least one year of experience in supported employment, job coaching, job development, vocational rehabilitation, or direct support for people with disabilities • Valid Colorado driver's license, reliable insured vehicle, and a driving record that meets agency standards • Ability to pass a background check, and to complete required training • Strong communication skills with job seekers, families, and business owners; comfort with in-person employer outreach • Basic computer skills and willingness to learn Therap Preferred: • ACRE certificate in Customized Employment or Employment Services, or willingness to complete one within the first year • Experience with Colorado DVR vendor services, HCPF Supported Employment requirements, or the IDD waiver system • Associate's or bachelor's degree in human services, social work, rehabilitation, education, or a related field • Bilingual (English/Spanish) a plus