POSITION SUMMARY/PURPOSE

Easterseals’ mission is to change the way the world defines and views disabilities by making profound, positive differences in people’s lives every day—Easterseals endeavors to offer services and programs that assist and empower those with disability related needs.  We serve children and adults with disabilities as well as their families and caregivers.  Our staff work with individuals to help them overcome challenges, achieve personal goals, and live to their fullest potential.

Under the supervision of the department Manager, Community Inclusion Specialists are primary implementers of our organization’s services, working on the front lines in our communities.  As our professional representatives in the field, we view their roles as particularly critical to the overall success of the programs we provide.  The Community Inclusion Specialist provides comprehensive direct supports that empower individuals to be as independent and successful as possible in achieving their vocational goals and/or life skills.  The Community Inclusion Specialist provides hands-on support in the instruction and development of vocational and daily living skills based on the individual’s needs.  The Community Inclusion Specialist may be assigned at any time to any department within Employment and Community Services, i.e., Day Services Program (DSO), Group Supported Employment (GSE), or Transitional Services. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Works directly with the individuals in a variety of employment settings and/or program models designed to address their program needs and life goals.
• Assumes responsibility for the input and implementation of individualized treatment plan goals, Behavior Support Plan, medical/health protocols, teaching strategies, and reporting assignments by participating as a member of each individual’s interdisciplinary treatment teams.
• Provides on-site employment and life skills training.  Provides on-site support to individuals and serves as a liaison in the community.
• Assists individuals in making personal choices and accessing community activities.
• Develops and expands community relationships to provide opportunities for increased independence.
• Provides transportation as assigned.
• Assists with personal care such as eating, toileting, and dressing as prescribed.
• completes all professional development and training requirements as identified by the vocational program and Easterseals.
• Teaches and enforces safety practices.
• Completes all required documentation, i.e., Therap, binders, and emails.
• Provides janitorial duties as needed (in fulfillment of contractual requirements), i.e., vacuuming, trash removal, bathroom cleaning, mopping, dusting, etc.
• Attends all required agency, department, state, and accreditation trainings and meetings as assigned. 
• Performs other related duties as required.

JOB KNOWLEDGE

This position may be authorized to have access to Protected Health Information (PHI) to perform specific job duties.  

SKILL REQUIREMENTS

• 21 years of age with a clear driving record
• Valid driver’s license
• Certification of CPR & First Aid, PMT, and all other required state trainings within the required timeframe. 
• Eligible to obtain PSL based upon program needs.
• Eligible to obtain DDS medication certification based upon program needs. 
• Clear and effective communication skills.
• Excellent problem-solving skills.
• Self-directed who can prioritize workload
• Knowledge of Microsoft Suite, i.e., Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Yammer, and Email.

DESIRED ATTRIBUTES

• Displays and upholds Easterseals core values of collaboration, respect, caring, excellence and accountability.  Consistently demonstrates caring for the community we serve, for one another, and for the organization they are part of, and contributes to building trust, pride, and camaraderie.

• Establishes, develops, and maintains respectful relationships and boundaries with the individuals served.

EDUCATION

High School Diploma or equivalent required.  Associate's Degree strongly preferred.  

EXPERIENCE

One (1) year of relevant work experience strongly preferred.

*Easterseals is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.

*Easterseals does not offer sponsorship for applicants for a work visa.