Vocational Training Specialist

Job Title: Vocational Training Specialist Position: Full-time

Reports to: Assistant Manager of Employment Programs FLSA: Exempt

The Els for Autism® Vocational Training Specialist will work with the Assistant Manager of Employment Programs to develop, plan, implement, and assess vocational programs for adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and related developmental disabilities. The Vocational Training Specialist will teach specific curriculum and courses that foster vocational skills in preparation for paid employment. Vocational training will take place at The Els Center of Excellence® campus in our state-of-the-art visually engineered vocational labs and across community-based settings.

Instructional Roles & Responsibilities:

Utilize explicit and systematic instruction methods (i.e., preview, breaking down tasks, building on skills, group activities, review as appropriate).
Utilize applied behavior analytic strategies such as reinforcement, de-escalation techniques and data collection methods within instructional and behavior management procedures.
Utilize a system of systematic prompting from most to least for new skills and least to most for learned skills and fading strategies during skill acquisition, practice, and maintenance.
Create groupings and natural support systems to fit the needs of each participant (i.e. employee mentors, pairs, one-on-one)
Develop visual and communication supports for program participants and complete a referral for clinical services (e.g., applied behavior analysis, speech language therapy, mental health counseling) and support as needed.
Develop, implement, and refine curriculum materials for industries being taught; ensuring content is accessible, engaging, and tailored to the learning needs and targeted outcomes of adults with ASD.
Ensure self-determination activities are embedded as a foundation for services and supports within programs.
Administrative Roles & Responsibilities:
Create spaces and procedures in the classroom, on the campus, or in the community that ensures the safety of participants
Collaborate with Assistant Manager of Employment Programs to review individual support plans for each program participant.
Perform document reviews and review the Person-Centered Plan (PCP) for each participant frequently to ensure delivery of instruction matches individualized goals.
Administer assessments and collect data, as required by the Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD).
Maintain accurate, timely, and organized participant notes, attendance records and reports within each participant’s electronic medical record and in accordance with requirements set forth by APD, or other funding and regulatory agencies.
Attend support meetings for participants as scheduled by the Assistant Manager of Employment Programs.
Attend meetings and training offered by APD as assigned by the Assistant Manager of Employment Programs.
Participate in professional development and training opportunities as assigned.
Complete training required/offered by APD as a MedWaiver provider and additional training, as assigned.
Adhere to HIPAA standards while collecting, storing, and sharing electronic personal health information
Remain actively engaged supporting participants directly, modeling appropriate behaviors, and collaborating with community partners.

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in education, Developmental Disabilities, Rehabilitation Counseling, Psychology, Social Work, or related field.
Minimum 2 years of experience in curriculum development for adults with autism and related developmental disabilities.
Minimum of 2 years’ experience in community-based instruction for individuals with autism and related developmental disabilities
Valid Florida Driver’s License.

Preferred:

Training in Applied Behavior Analysis.
PCM Trained
Bilingual

Additional Requirements and Work Environment

Employment and Post Hire Training Requirements:

Successfully complete two Level 2 Background Clearances, reference check & Pre-employment paperwork
Successfully complete Els for Autism Foundation New Staff Training Modules to include HIPAA Awareness and Medical Safety Trainings

Professionalism:

Dress code is comfortable business casual attire.
Adherence to a high level of professional and ethical standards in accordance with ASHA
Comply with Els for Autism and Els Design Group Brand Standards
Display a high standard of integrity and conduct while serving as a representative and ambassador for the Els for Autism, its mission, and the vision of the Els family.

Work Environment:

Work is normally performed in a typical classroom environment, on-campus, visually engineered vocational labs, and community-based locations.
Responsible for transporting clients as needed to community-based locations.
Required to sit, kneel, stand, or bend in support of clients’ needs.