Lead Employment Specialist / Job Developer

Organization: The Nicholas Center, Ltd.

Location: Pleasantville, NY (On-site / In the field)

Pay Rate: $23.00 per hour

Schedule: Monday – Friday, 9:15 AM – 3:15 PM (Flexibility up to 5:00 PM as needed based on programmatic needs)

About Us

The Nicholas Center, Ltd. is a leading nonprofit agency dedicated to revolutionizing how Autistic adults learn, live, and work. We offer meaningful opportunities, training, and support services within an exciting and supportive workplace environment. Work at the #1 non-profit on Long Island, which expanded with a second location to Westchester in 2020. Join our growing team on-site in Pleasantville, NY!

Position Overview

The Lead Employment Specialist / Job Developer plays a key role in connecting Autistic adults with meaningful community employment. In this role, you will lead direct service delivery under Supported Employment (SEMP) and Pathways to Employment (PTE), balancing hands-on workplace coaching with active job development and employer outreach.

You will take ownership of the discovery and assessment process, identify participant strengths and ideal work conditions, and proactively build relationships with local businesses to cultivate new job and internship opportunities. Additionally, you will guide participants on-site to build workplace independence through structured coaching and support fading strategies.

Key Responsibilities

Job Development & Employer Outreach

• Proactively identify, target, and cultivate new employment and internship opportunities with local employers and community partners.
• Attend networking events and engage in community outreach to expand the organization’s hiring network.
• Educate and partner with local businesses to foster inclusive work environments and assist with implementing workplace accommodations.
• Serve as a professional representative of The Nicholas Center in the business community.

Participant Support & Job Coaching

• Provide individualized, on-site job coaching for participants in community work settings, supporting skill acquisition, task completion, and workplace integration.
• Implement structured support plans and gradual fading strategies to promote participant independence.
• Monitor job stability and performance, proactively addressing workplace challenges.

Assessment, Coordination & Compliance

• Lead comprehensive discovery and vocational assessment processes in accordance with NYS OPWDD guidelines to drive successful job matches.
• Translate assessment data and participant preferences into actionable career goals and structured employment plans.
• Complete all required service documentation accurately, thoroughly, and within required OPWDD and agency timelines.
• Participate actively in weekly SEMP team meetings, case reviews, and collaborative planning.
• Transport participants in your personal vehicle as needed, complying with organization safe-driving policies (time spent transporting and mileage are reimbursed).

Qualifications & Requirements

Required Experience: Prior direct experience in Supported Employment (SEMP), Pathways to Employment (PTE), or vocational rehabilitation services (OPWDD background strongly preferred).

Skills & Competencies:

• Proven ability to build business relationships and generate community employment leads.
• Strong working knowledge of OPWDD discovery, assessment, and documentation standards.
• Demonstrated skill in coaching, task analysis, and problem-solving with neurodivergent adults.
• Excellent organizational, time management, and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently in the field while managing multiple participant caseloads.

Vehicle & Driving Requirements:

• Valid driver’s license, reliable personal vehicle, and compliant auto liability insurance required for participant transport.
• Compliance with TNC safe-driving policies.

Pay: $23.00 per hour

Expected hours: No less than 30.0 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Mileage reimbursement
• On-the-job training
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Experience:

• Supported Employment: 1 year (Required)

Work Location: In person