Goodwill - Chicago, IL
posted 4 months ago
The Job Coach Deaf and Hard of Hearing is responsible for providing retention services, on-the-job training, and support to Goodwill's Deaf and/or Hard of Hearing (DH/H) customers who are in search of or have been placed in employment. This role is crucial in helping clients develop the necessary skills and confidence to succeed in the workplace. The job coach will provide support during new hire orientation, focusing on acceptable work habits, life skills, teamwork, realistic work expectations, problem-solving, communication, job-seeking, and job retention skills. The position requires a deep understanding of the policies, procedures, and programs that govern the work environment. The job coach typically works on projects and tasks that span from one day to three months, ensuring that clients receive the support they need throughout their employment journey. The role involves providing professional employment skills training, customer service, and retail training to Deaf/HOH clients, covering essential topics such as basic computer skills, interviewing skills, and resume development. Additionally, the job coach will arrange one-week internships for clients with employers to equip them with the necessary tools to secure gainful employment. Acting as a liaison, the job coach will maintain excellent working relationships and communication with employers, unions, public and private employment agencies, and other Goodwill staff to develop job opportunities and modification services that align with both business and job seekers' needs. The job coach will also develop, implement, and monitor Individual Service Plans, establishing appropriate goals and objectives for each individual consumer, and provide documented follow-up to ensure attendance and analyze progress. Through job coaching, the job coach will assist customers in acclimating to their new work environment and assess any potential job challenges at their work sites. They will provide job retention instruction as needed, focusing on areas such as attitude, job skills, appearance, punctuality, work ethic, conflict resolution, and time management. Workshops and presentations will be developed and conducted to meet the specific needs of employers and employed customers at various work sites. The job coach will utilize the Case Worthy system to maintain and provide regular updates on customer progress and issues, ensuring timely processing of all necessary records, including Monthly Progress Reports and case notes. Effective project and change management skills are essential, as the job coach must reliably complete routine job responsibilities and special assignments while adapting to change. Problem-solving skills are also critical, as the job coach will work under general supervision, with their work regularly reviewed by a manager or senior coworker. Practical, working knowledge of tasks, responsibilities, policies, and procedures is necessary for success in this role.