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Advertising Summary: 

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.  

Unit: School Of Education MBU

Department: SOE Spec Ed and DP RRTC

Department Summary:

VCU's Rehabilitation Research and Training Center (RRTC), housed within the School of Education, is a nationally recognized leader in advancing employment and inclusion for individuals with disabilities, and is currently accepting accepting applications for a Supported Employment Specialist!

Established in 1983, the RRTC brings together a team of nationally and internationally renowned researchers and practitioners dedicated to developing and implementing evidence-based practices that improve quality of life and employment outcomes.

Through its Business Connections Program, the RRTC provides person-centered, customer-directed supported employment services that help individuals with all types of disabilities obtain and retain competitive, community-based employment. With a strong focus on collaboration, innovation, and job retention, the department offers a mission-driven and impactful environment for professionals committed to inclusive employment.

Duties & Responsibilities:

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.

Minimum Qualifications:

Demonstrated ability to work in and foster an environment of respect, professionalism and civility with a population of faculty, staff, and students from all 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