Youth Services Specialist- Career Pathway Navigator

ABOUT THIS JOB: Are you looking to make a difference in the world? Do you enjoy helping others? Here at New Horizons, we believe in empowering people of all abilities to reach their full potential. Our clients (we call them Members) are folks with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD). We believe they can and should lead healthy, productive lives and contribute to the community in which they live. We know that they might need a bit of support to do this, and that’s where you come in.

JOB DESCRIPTION: A Youth Services Specialist- Career Pathway Navigator is someone who advocates for people with IDD. In your role, you’ll empower young people by teaching them the sorts of skills that will help put them on the path to competitive, integrated employment.

SUMMARY: The Primary role for the Youth Services Specialist- Career Pathway Navigator (YSS-CPN) is to help young people (typically 16-21) develop a Person-Centered Career Plan. You'll support each Member as they transition from school based support to the world of adult IDD services and competitive integrated employment. You might also support New Horizons’ youth program in the schools, creating a welcoming, active and outcome-oriented experience for young adults with disabilities. Supports and serves as back-up for other Youth Services department activities.  

RATE: $21.00 - $24.00 Hourly

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following:

1. Work with assigned Members to develop a Person-Centered Career Plan (PCCP).

2. Support assigned Members in identifying potential career options, navigating regional center and generic services, and tracking and reporting progress against the PCCP.

3. Must work with Member and their circle of support to build an awareness of their lifestyle, background, interests, and family and network of support.

4. Over the course of 18-24 months, the YSS-CPN will work to support their assigned Members in:

• career exploration

• community awareness, engagement, and integration

• postsecondary education, vocational training

• internships and or other work experiences (volunteering, temporary work, part time paid work)

• supported employment (job preparation, search, placement, coaching)

• customized employment

• technology assistance

• self-employment or microbusiness launch

• benefits education and analysis (SSI, food assistance, housing)

• transportation

• financial empowerment and savings

5. Tracks all clients receiving services, and provides an update to the SVP of SG, as well as the data management team, to track attendance, “graduation” from the program, and generalized outcomes.

6. Supports promoting the New Horizons agency so that graduates from high school know about NH, and potential programs and services in the community.

7. Develops and maintains strong partnerships with teaching staff and administration at local high schools and colleges. Creates and maintains excellent communication with the individuals at the referenced educational centers.

8.  Ensures that assessments and curriculum are individualized to the clients’ needs by utilizing best practice and evidence-based principles.

9.  Works closely with the other NH departments to coordinate services as needed.  

OTHER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following:

1.  Attends meetings as directed/required.

2.  Supports the Agency’s mission and partners with others to accomplish the mission.

3.  Maintains the highest professional and ethical standards at all times.

4.  Maintains proficiency in computer applications and databases as required for this position.

5.  Performs other duties as assigned.

• Must speak English
• Bachelors' Degree or equivalent
• ACRE Certified in Customized Employment (New Horizons will train if applicant does not have)
• Experience with special needs / developmental disabilities (preferred)
• Driver's License for 3+ years required. Must be at least 21 years of age.
• Authorized to work in the United States.

Our Great Benefits Include:

• Medical Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vacation
• Paid sick leave
• Differential rates for Holidays
• All paid trainings including CPR/First Aide
• Discounts Program
• Referral Program
• FSA
• And more...