Vocational Support Specialist

Overview

Be Part of our Circle. We empower people to live their best life. This mutually shared sense of purpose drives our decisions and actions. Come as you are and achieve better lives as part of the St. Louis Arc family of individuals in this vital role. As a Vocational Support Specialist, you will provide direct support to help people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities identify and achieve their competitive integrated employment-related goals.

• Conduct interest and skills assessments and use gathered data to inform the development of a Positive Personal Profile and Career Plan.
• Expand, maintain, and assist with developing partnerships with area non-profit businesses at which to complete volunteer work, unpaid work experiences, and assessments. Work with these businesses to ensure a mutually beneficial relationship.
• Assist people supported to plan and complete diverse volunteer and educational opportunities that align with their identified employment goals and needs. This includes but is not limited to:
  • Community-based volunteering
  • Job Shadowing
  • Mock Interviewing
  • Job/Career Research
  • Peer Group Meetings/Classes
• Objectively evaluate a person’s knowledge, skills, and abilities for competitive integrated employment.
• Teach skills needed to obtain and/or maintain competitive integrated employment.
• Provide instructional training at volunteer/work sites, including developing and deploying adaptations to increase independence as needed.
• Support individuals with personal care and hygiene support as needed.
• Complete all documentation required according to Agency and funder timelines, including community events reports, medication administration records, progress notes, etc.
• Actively participate in Individual Support Plan meetings, training, and team meetings.
• Communicate professionally and manage relationships with person supported and their support team (family members, community business partners, other direct care staff, support coordinators, etc.).

• We’ll celebrate and empower your unique gifts and contributions.
• We’ll help you help others. You’ll be embraced and uplifted in our inclusive circle of support.
• You’ll have a voice and the autonomy to put into action your ideas for doing your job better—and serve others better.
• Hands-on leadership that empowers team member innovation.
• Opportunities to learn and grow, plus benefits to support your personal and professional well-being such as health insurance, retirement, and time off.
• STUDENT LOAN REPAYMENT ASSISTANCE
• Individuals in this role may be eligible for up to $250 per month paid directly to their student loan vendor. Ask your recruiter for details.

• Associate’s Degree or equivalent related experience required
• Bachelor’s Degree preferred
• Valid Driver’s license (in good standing)
• Current auto insurance
• One year of experience supporting individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities, or work in an educational field required
• Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills
• Strong ability to cultivate important relationships across multiple constituencies
• Knowledge of best practices in the field of supporting people with developmental disabilities and supported employment
• Proficient computer skills including the ability to use electronic health records systems and ability to learn new systems as necessary
• Ability to communicate effectively and professionally both verbally and in writing
• Ability to problem-solve and exercise good judgement
• Excellent time management and organizational skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently

Since 1950, people with disabilities and their families have been placing their trust with the St. Louis Arc. Today, our 400+ team members serve more than 4,500 children, teens, and adults with autism spectrum disorders, Down syndrome, intellectual and other developmental disabilities.