An Employment Training Specialist (ETS) under NY OPWDD (Office for People With Developmental Disabilities) who works for ACHIEVE, a Chapter of NYSRAC, provides vocational services to individuals with disabilities, facilitating job development, skill training, and on-site job coaching. They work to help people secure and retain competitive community employment, complete required documentation, and coordinate with teams. 

 Key Responsibilities

• Job Development & Placement: Assists individuals in choosing career paths, conducting situational assessments, and securing jobs in the community.
• Job Coaching: Provides on-site training to teach specific job duties, social skills, and travel training to ensure success.
• Documentation: Maintains contemporaneous records, including monthly summaries, progress reports, and individualized service plans.
• Advocacy & Support: Acts as a liaison between the individual, family, employer, and team members to ensure a successful work environment.
• Employment Training Program (ETP): Focuses on helping participants in the ETP program transition from paid internships to permanent employment.

 Requirements & Qualifications

• Education: High school diploma or GED is usually the minimum, with an Associate's or Bachelor’s degree often preferred.
• Experience: Typically requires 1-2 years of experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities or in vocational rehabilitation.
• Licensure: A valid NY State Driver's License is usually required for traveling to job sites.
• Training: Often requires completion of specialized training, such as that provided by Relias. 

Common Salary & Benefits

• Salary: Generally ranges from roughly $17.50 to $18.75 per hour, depending on the agency and location.
• Benefits: Often include paid time off, health/dental/vision insurance, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities. 

QUALIFICATIONS:

High School Graduate with some knowledge of or experience working with developmentally disabled preferred.

-Or-

A combination of education and experience that in the opinion of the reviewing agency, exceeds the above standards of the program

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

Possess good interpersonal, written, oral, and communication abilities and effective time management/organizational skills

Must be able to work scheduled hours that may include weekend and/or holiday timeframes and maintain an acceptable work attendance as defined in the agency’s personnel policy manual and handbook.

Be computer literate with knowledge in agency operating systems and applicable software required for department needs.

Have regular access to a computer with internet capability

Demonstrate sound judgment in normal work and emergency situations

Must physically be able to perform required certifications and lift 50 pounds 

Possess a valid driver’s license acceptable to the agency’s insurance carrier 

Must have reliable vehicle and automobile insurance. May be required to transport people supportedin personal vehicle when an agency vehicle is unavailable.