Purpose of the Position

The Customized Employment Specialist is responsible for delivering Customized Employment (CE) services in alignment with Maryland Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) waiver guidance. The CES supports individuals with disabilities by conducting Discovery, developing person-centered employment opportunities, and providing ongoing job coaching that promotes independence, community inclusion, and long-term employment success.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

1. Conduct Discovery Assessments

Implement the full Discovery process following DDA-approved guidelines and standards.
Gather information through interviews, observations, review of records, and community exploration.
Identify each participant’s strengths, interests, skills, support needs, and ideal conditions for employment.
Document the Discovery process thoroughly and professionally.

2. Develop Discovery Profiles & Visual Resumes

Create comprehensive Discovery Profiles summarizing the individual’s employment strengths and preferences.
Produce visually engaging Visual Resumes for use with potential employers.
Ensure all documentation meets DDA requirements and reflects person-centered principles.

3. Identify and Develop Customized Job Opportunities

Collaborate with participants, families, and support teams to determine preferred career paths.
Engage local businesses to explore unmet needs that can be matched with participant strengths.
Perform job carving, job creation, or negotiation of customized roles when appropriate.
Maintain professional relationships with employers and community partners.

4. Provide Job Coaching & Fading Supports

Offer individualized on‑the‑job support to promote skill development and workplace integration.
Implement systematic instruction and other evidence-based coaching strategies.
Develop fading plans to gradually reduce support as the participant gains independence.
Monitor employment stability and provide periodic check‑ins as needed.

5. Compliance & Documentation

Maintain accurate, timely, and compliant documentation per DDA regulations and agency policies.
Track service delivery, progress, employer communication, and outcomes.
Participate in team meetings and contribute to Person‑Centered Planning processes.
Uphold all confidentiality and ethical standards.

Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent.
Ability to meet DDA provider staff qualification requirements, including background checks, training mandates, and competency expectations.
Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in community-based settings.
Bachelor’s degree in human services, education, rehabilitation, psychology, or a related field.
Training or certification in Customized Employment, such as:
ACRE (Association of Community Rehabilitation Educators) Certification
CESP (Certified Employment Support Professional) credential
Experience working with individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities.
Knowledge of job development strategies and supported employment best practices.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

Community-based role requiring travel to businesses, participants’ homes, and other settings.
Must be able to support individuals in various workplace environments.
May involve flexible scheduling, including occasional evenings or weekends depending on participant needs.

Pay: $45,000.00 - $55,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person

Holy Trinity Care

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