Employment Support Specialist

The Opportunity Tree Mission and Vision

To provide quality individualized services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in dynamic and innovative environments. The Opportunity Tree is committed to promoting the development of a society that fully embraces individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through inclusion, advocacy, and opportunities.

Employment Support Specialist Position

The Employment Support Specialist provides supported employment services to adults with developmental and other disabilities through various state contracts. This is a new position with The Opportunity Tree (TOT) that will require the person to be passionate and flexible. The Employment Support Specialist will develop, implement and deliver supported employment services and provide general information/outreach/education about supported employment services/resources by fulfilling TOT’s mission, vision, and values.

Services Summary

Supported Employment Services delivers employment services to adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities through multiple contracts in Phoenix, Maricopa, Avondale, and Casa Grande. Supported Employment services include Transition to Employment, Pre-Employment Transition Services (PreETS), Career Preparation Readiness, Job Development & Retention, Individual Supported Employment, and Employment Supports. Essentially, services assist individuals to obtain and maintain competitive integrated employment.

Essential Job Functions

• Collaborate with diverse members, respecting individual identities, to secure inclusive community job placements.
• Provide equitable support tailored to each member’s unique abilities and employment aspirations.
• Develop positive work-related skills and habits tailored to individual employment needs.
• Conduct assessments to identify member strengths and capabilities.
• Develop and implement individualized training agreements in line with members' goals.
• Maintain records with a focus on equitable service delivery and outcomes.
• Build employer relationships, advocating for inclusive hiring practices and diverse workplaces to create job matches aligning with members' goals and strengths.
• Engage with community networks, including schools, agencies, and families.
• Deliver services that are culturally relevant, accessible, and respectful of all identities.
• Champion the rights and inclusion of members in the workforce, with a focus on creating accessible and equitable competitive integrated employment opportunities.

Minimum Qualifications

• Minimum age of 18 years with a GED/high school diploma.
• Valid driver's license and proof of insurance.
• Ability to obtain a Level 1 Fingerprint Clearance Card.
• At least one year of paid experience working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in mentoring, teaching, or coaching roles is preferred, demonstrating a capacity for leadership and skill development in others.
• Experience supporting individuals obtain and maintain competitive integrated employment.
• Experience navigating state agencies and providing state-funded services.

Comprehensive training will be provided in disability awareness, employment strategies for individuals with disabilities, and work readiness skills. This training will enhance understanding of various disabilities and develop skills to support successful, long-term employment outcomes for our Members.

Benefits for Full-Time Employees

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Referral program
• Vision insurance

Work Environment:

• Lift/carry/transfer minimum of 40 pounds.
• Bend, kneel, and stoop.
• Pushing or pulling of wheelchairs.
• Reach/ reach overhead.
• Walk/stand for extended periods.
• Sit for extended periods.
• Finger/hand/wrist dexterity to eye.
• This position is considered a “safety sensitive” position.