Employment Support Professional (ESP)

Employment Support Professionals (ESPs) on PCL's Job Launch team assist people with intellectual and developmental disabilities who need support to lead self-directed lives through meaningful employment based on their strengths and interests. This department and position stemmed from Oregon’s Employment First Initiative with the belief that people with I/DD can and should have jobs in their communities, earn competitive wages, and enjoy the same benefits and opportunities as others. An ESP is responsible for discovering the unique attributes, abilities, strengths, skills, and interests of each job seeker and to find employment that fits their lifestyle. They provide employment services, supports, and personal care necessary to help people achieve their individual employment goals. ESPs will also be a great community partner by making connections with local businesses to offer diverse employment options.

Starting Wage & Benefits: $19.50/hour. Once ACRE certification is completed, generally after 6 months, wage goes up to $20.50/hour.

• We are also offering a $1,000 sign on bonus that is paid out in increments at set milestones of your employment!
• We offer Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Supplemental Insurance and FSA for full-time employees, 401(K), Gym discounts and reimbursements, and other lifestyle discounts available to all employees.

Position Type: 30-40 Hours Weekly, Full-Time

• Hours may include days, evenings, and weekends as needed. Working locations may vary in Marion & Polk counties at various PCL and community locations.

Skills and Qualifications: 

• Education Requirements: High school diploma/GED required.
• Experience Requirements: No experience required. Preference will be given to those with Employment Support experience and/or those who are bilingual in Spanish and English. 
• Must be at least 18 years of age when starting employment.
• Must have and show basic computer skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Well-organized and attentive to detail.
• Cooperative and willing to learn.
• Ability to interpret various instructions.
• Enhanced math skills – must be able to accurately balance a budget and basic math transactions.
• Professional, clear, and positive oral and written communication skills both expressive and receptive.
• Must be able to read, write, and speak English.
• PCL’s Team members must have dependable, reliable, and regular work attendance, and must adhere to attendance policies.
• Maintain professional appearance standards. Business or business casual will be the daily expectation.
• Understand the concept of self-advocacy, as you will partner with people as they build the lives they desire while providing the unique supports needed.
• Believe that every person belongs in their community and has the ability to become connected through employment.
• Demonstrate excellent critical thinking skills.

Employment Support Professional Job Duties:

Job Preparation & Acquisition:

• Develop relationships with current and potential employers to identify opportunities for assessments, exploration activities, and employment for the people you support.
• Identify and conduct a variety of assessments/work experiences as requested by the person receiving services, the VR counselor, and their support team.
• Analyze, plan, and implement services for the people you support, including identifying skills, potential employment opportunities, any behavior management interventions, job accommodations, or the coordination of transportation needs.
• Provide assistance with resumes, interviews, communication, personal goals, and skill development.
• Maintain a file on each person receiving employment services.

Job Coaching:

• Provide orientation and training in chosen employment locations.
• Assist with schedule design and ensure people supported are accurately tracking their time worked.
• Provide systematic instruction with the intention of promoting independence while working.
• Provide assistance to ensure the work a person does meets the requirements of the job.
• Facilitate ongoing communication between the person you support, their employer, and coworkers, including any changes to the schedule.
• Partner with residential team to ensure adequate staffing and supports.
• Provide exemplary documentation for progress and data tracking for County, Brokerage, and VR billing processes.
• Identify where changes are needed, problem solve and address issues that may result between employers, residential providers, and people receiving services.

Physical Requirements: 

• Must be able to lift and transfer 25 pounds minimum.
• Appropriately and efficiently responding to emergencies and/or crises.

Certifications and Training: 

• Must pass required DHS background check and Protective Service Investigations.
• This position requires a valid driver’s license and to be eligible to drive agency vehicles.
• Must be able to pass a drug screening for illegal substances in the state of Oregon.
• Complete and maintain all certifications as required by the position, PCL, and other governing agencies.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain certification to a satisfactory level in Oregon Intervention System (training provided if hired).
• Must be able to obtain and maintain certification in CPR (training provided if hired).
• Complete all duties related to being a Mandatory Abuse Reporter.
• New hire orientation and on-site training must be completed within 60 days of hire.
• Obtain certification in and maintain Association of Community Rehabilitation Educators Certification (ACRE) within 1 year of employment. (training provided if hired.)

Provides support services for people with developmental disabilities.