Career Navigator (Job Coach)

Crossroads Rehabilitation Center - Indianapolis, IN

Full-time - Entry Level

Indianapolis, IN

Social Assistance

About the position

Career Navigator at Easterseals Crossroads is a pivotal role designed to support individuals with disabilities in achieving their career goals. As the primary point of contact for participants, the Career Navigator will serve as the main case manager, guiding participants through the program from initial assessment to job placement and retention. This position requires a compassionate and proactive approach to facilitate the necessary services that assist participants in overcoming barriers to employment. The Career Navigator will utilize various assessment tools, such as Wayfinders Life Mapping U and Indiana Career Explorer, to evaluate the strengths and needs of each participant, developing tailored career and employment plans that connect them with appropriate community support services. In addition to case management, the Career Navigator will take on the role of job coach, providing on-the-job training and support to ensure successful job placement and retention. This includes coordinating job search activities, assisting with resume preparation, and advocating for participants with potential employers. The role also involves conducting on-site job analyses and providing post-employment support to facilitate long-term success in the workplace. The Career Navigator will be responsible for maintaining accurate documentation for each participant and will teach workplace readiness skills using established curricula. Flexibility is essential, as the frequency of meetings and the nature of support will vary based on each participant's unique needs and program status.

Responsibilities

• Serve as primary case manager for assigned participants throughout the continuum of services.
• Use assessment tools to assess needs, develop a career/employment plan, and connect with appropriate support services.
• Coordinate referrals to local community centers to address basic needs.
• Coordinate referrals to additional services including benefits planning, assistive technology, and legal assistance.
• Coordinate job search activities including resume preparation, job opportunity identification, application submission, and interview assistance.
• Conduct on-site job analysis as appropriate and requested.
• Provide necessary on-the-job training with each assigned consumer, including advocacy and development of natural supports.
• Provide post-employment supports and advocacy as necessary to facilitate long-term success.
• Complete and submit all required documentation for each assigned participant throughout the continuum of services.
• Teach workplace readiness skills to individual participants or groups as needed using existing curriculum.
• Process requests for 'bridge' funds and present to Program Manager for approval.
• Assist participants with all steps of the application and enrollment process for postsecondary training.
• Encourage participation in Circles Indy and attend meetings as appropriate to support participants.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Vocational Rehabilitation, Psychology, Sociology, Social Work, Business, or related field.
• 3-5 years' experience working as an employment consultant, case manager, or related position.
• Prior experience working with individuals with disabilities highly preferred.
• A current, valid Indiana Driver's license and proof of auto insurance.
• Effective communication skills with diverse audiences including consumers, family members, referral agencies, and business representatives.
• Ability to write effectively in a clear and concise manner.
• Knowledge of disability funding systems including Vocational Rehabilitation Services, Bureau of Developmental Disabilities, and Indiana Medicaid Waiver preferred.
• Ability to prioritize competing demands and effectively organize assignments in a timely manner.
• Demonstrated initiative and ability to meet and exceed productivity goals.
• Ability to work well as a member of a team and demonstrate cooperation and respect to all team members and customers.
• Independence in managing and directing work with minimal supervision.
• Judgment in analyzing problems and making realistic decisions with minimal assistance.
• Professionalism in appearance, communication, and interaction with others.
• Teaching and training job search skills and specific job skills.
• Computer proficiency required including a working knowledge of Microsoft Office.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with assessment tools like Wayfinders Life Mapping U and Indiana Career Explorer.
• Familiarity with community resources for individuals with disabilities.

Benefits

• Disability insurance
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account
• On-the-job training
• Vision insurance
• 403(b)
• Life insurance
• Paid vacation
• Paid holidays (including four 'floating' holidays)