Advertising Summary: The Rehabilitation Research and Training Center at Virginia Commonwealth University is seeking a Supported Employment Specialist to join its team. The Supported Employment Specialist will assist individuals with disabilities in locating and maintaining competitive, integrated employment.Qualified applicants will meet with businesses to develop relationships and partnerships that encourage the promotion of employment of people with disabilities.

Supported Employment Specialists provide direct services and supports to individuals on job sites, with the goal of assisting the employee with a disability in achieving independence in their employment. Services and supports are individualized, and will, at times, be required to work on evenings, nights, and weekends to accommodate consumers’ schedules. This position is a field position and requires an organized self-starter who enjoys making connections in their community. Business Connections serves Richmond and the surrounding areas. Candidates may be required to cover internship-to-employment projects in Richmond, Hanover, Henrico, Chesterfield, Hampton, Petersburg, or Newport News.

Unit: School Of Education MBU

Department: SOE Spec Ed and DP RRTC

Department Summary: Established in 1983, the Virginia Commonwealth University Rehabilitation Research and Training Center (RRTC) provides resources for professionals, individuals with disabilities, and their representatives. Our team of nationally and internationally renowned researchers is committed to developing and advancing evidence-based practices to improve the lives of individuals with disabilities.

Duties & Responsibilities:

The chief purpose of this position is to assist individuals with significant disabilities in locating and maintaining competitive, integrated employment.

The Supported Employment Specialist will assist individuals with disabilities in locating and maintaining competitive, integrated employment.  Qualified applicants will meet with businesses to develop relationships and partnerships that encourage the promotion of employment of people with disabilities.  The Supported Employment Specialist will provide direct services and supports to individuals on job sites, with the goal of assisting the employee with a disability in achieving independence in their employment.  

Services and supports are individualized, and will, at times, be required to work on evenings, nights, and weekends to accommodate consumers’ schedules.  This position is a field position and requires an organized self-starter who enjoys making connections in their community.  Business Connections serves Richmond and the surrounding areas.  Candidates may be required to cover internship-to-employment projects in Richmond, Hanover, Henrico, Chesterfield, Hampton, Petersburg, or Newport News.  

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications

Demonstrated experience working in and fostering an environment of respect, professionalism and civility with a population of faculty, staff, and students from various backgrounds and experiences, or a commitment to do so as a staff member at VCU;

Demonstrated experience working with individuals with disabilities;

Employment Specialists often adjust schedules to meet employer and client needs, therefore the ability to work non-traditional hours, including weekends, holidays, nights is required;

Above average verbal and written communication skills;

Ability to build community partnerships;

Proven ability to carry out job duties in a professional manner, with a positive outlook and approach;

Ability to work with sensitive information and maintain confidentiality;

Computer proficiency in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint;

A valid driver's license and vehicle.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience working with individuals with disabilities in areas of community, integrated, and competitive employment;

Familiarity with Virginia businesses and community resources.

Salary Range: $53,000-$55,000

Benefits: All full-time university staff are eligible for VCU’s robust benefits package that includes comprehensive health benefits, paid annual and holiday leave, generous tuition benefits, retirement planning and savings options, tax-deferred annuity and cash match programs, employee discounts, well-being resources, abundant opportunities for career development and advancement, and more.

FLSA Exemption Status: Exempt

Hours per Week: 40

Restricted Position: Yes

ORP Eligible: Yes

Flexible Work Arrangement: Fully Onsite

University Job Title: 21211Y - Counselor HS 1

Contact Information:
Contact Name: Hannah Lenhart
Contact Email: lenharthe@vcu.edu