Community Employment Specialist

Community Employment Specialist

Black Water Acres- The Arc Erie County NY

Alden, NY (and surrounding area)

$20.50 per hour / Monday – Friday

Black Water Acres is launching an innovative agricultural operation featuringhydroponic container farming, field crops, flowers, and beekeeping – and we’re looking for someone who is passionate about empowering others, building community partnerships, and helping people reach their fullest potential.

As ourCommunity Employment Specialist, you’ll help individuals with developmental disabilities achieve their employment and life goals. In this rewarding role, you will serve as a mentor, coach, advocate, and role model while supporting individuals in exploring career opportunities, developing workplace skills, and achieving successful community employment outcomes.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Will work to provide all aspects of employment services including job readiness, job development, job coaching and job retention services
• Develop career exploration opportunities, job shadows, work-based learning experiences, paid or unpaid internships, and pre-post-employment service planning Lead farm activities and provide hands on training for program participants
• Works with individuals on defined vocational goals and objectives, and assess progress monthly, or more frequently as directed by individual’s Community Employment Manager, progress to be documented in progress notes, signed, titled and dated

What We’re Looking For

• Associate’s Degree in Human Services, Business Administration or a closely related fieldPLUS one year of full-time paid direct service experience with people with developmental disabilities. Prior vocational or pre-vocational experience preferred.

OR

• High school or equivalent diplomaPLUS three years full-time paid direct service experience with people with developmental disabilities. Prior vocational or pre-vocational experience preferred.

                                                   PLUS

• A valid New York State Driver’s License, approved driving record and reliable transportation. Will be required to travel to worksites throughout the WNY area.
• Must be flexible in schedule to accommodate a variety of work placements.

If you love agriculture, innovation and building something meaningful this role is for you!  Grow something meaningful with us, apply today!