Vocational Training Specialist

About the Els for Autism Foundation

The Els for Autism® Vocational Training Specialist will develop, plan, implement, and assess vocational programs for adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and related developmental disabilities. The Vocational Training Specialist will teach specific curricula and courses that foster vocational skills in preparation for paid employment. Vocational training will take place at The Els Center of Excellence® campus in our state-of-the-art visually engineered vocational labs and across community-based settings.

Instructional Roles & Responsibilities:

• Develop, implement, and refine industry-specific curricula, ensuring accessibility and engagement for adults with ASD.
• Employ explicit and systematic instructional methods, including task breakdown, skill progression, and group activities.
• Utilize applied behavior analytic strategies such as reinforcement and data collection in instruction and behavior management.
• Implement systematic prompting for skill acquisition and fading strategies for skill maintenance.
• Establish support systems tailored to individual needs, including mentorship and one-on-one support.
• Create visual and communication aids and facilitate referrals for clinical services as required.
• Integrate self-determination activities as a core component of program support.

Administrative Roles & Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with Adult Services Team to develop program schedules for vocational training and education courses.
• Establish safe and conducive learning environments within classrooms, campuses, and communities.
• Review individual support plans for program participants.
• Conduct applicant screenings, interviews, and program orientations.
• Monitor and adjust instructional delivery to align with individualized goals outlined in the Person-Centered Plan (PCP).
• Administer assessments and collect data as required by regulatory agencies.
• Maintain accurate participant records and reports in accordance with regulatory standards.
• Attend scheduled support meetings for participants.
• Participate in meetings and training sessions provided by regulatory agencies.
• Engage in professional development and assigned training opportunities.
• Complete required training as a MedWaiver provider and additional assigned training.
• Ensure compliance with HIPAA standards in handling personal health information.
• Remain actively involved in participant support, modeling appropriate behaviors, and collaborating with community partners.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in education, Developmental Disabilities, Rehabilitation Counseling, Psychology, Social Work, or related field.
• Minimum 2 years of experience in teaching, coaching, and curriculum development for adults with autism and related developmental disabilities.
• Minimum of 2 years' experience in transition to adulthood, vocational training, and community-based instruction for individuals with autism and related developmental disabilities
• Valid Florida Driver's License.

Preferred:

• Training in Applied Behavior Analysis
• Professional Crisis Management (PCM) training certification
• Bilingual
• State of Florida Teaching Certificate

Additional Requirements and Work Environment

Employment and Post Hire Training Requirements:

• Successfully complete two Level 2 Background Clearances, reference check & Pre-employment paperwork
• Successfully complete Els for Autism Foundation New Staff Training Modules to include HIPAA Awareness and Medical Safety Trainings
• Successfully complete APD Basic and iConnect Required Trainings

Professionalism:

• Comply with Els for Autism Brand Standards.

• Display a high standard of integrity and conduct while serving as a representative and ambassador for Els for Autism, its mission, and the vision of the Els family.
• Dress code is comfortable business casual attire.

Work Environment:

• Work is normally performed in a typical classroom environment and visually engineered vocational labs, and in community-based locations.
• Responsible for transporting clients as needed to community-based locations using a company van.
• Required to sit, kneel, stand, or bend in support of clients' needs.

Els for Autism is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Els for Autism is committed to fostering a safe and inclusive workplace, where diversity is valued and all individuals, regardless of background, identity, or ability, are respected and provided equal opportunities for success. To learn more, please visit elsforautism.org.