Professional Employment Specialist - San Fernando Valley (MASTER'S REQUIRED)
Institute for Applied Behavior Analysis
Summary
IABA's STEP (Supported Transition to Employment Program) is a community-based behavioral day program that supports adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in building the skills needed for greater independence, community inclusion, and employment.
Job description
About the Program
IABA's STEP (Supported Transition to Employment Program) is a community-based behavioral day program that supports adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in building the skills needed for greater independence, community inclusion, and employment.
Using Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), positive behavior supports, and person-centered practices, STEP helps individuals develop social, communication, vocational, and independent living skills. As a Professional Employment Specialist, you'll provide direct support in community settings, helping individuals participate in volunteer opportunities, develop workplace readiness, build confidence, and progress toward meaningful employment and greater independence.
Position Overview
As a Professional Employment Specialist, you will work directly with adults with developmental disabilities in both community and employment settings. Depending on individual needs, support may be provided one-on-one or in small groups and may include behavioral support, vocational training, community integration, and skill development.
Responsibilities
- Help individuals connect with fun and meaningful community activities
- Teach and reinforce independent living skills and vocational skills
- Address and redirect aggression and challenging behaviors effectively
- Support positive behavior development
- Provide clear verbal guidance (verbal prompting, effective redirection, positive reinforcement, praise, and validation) throughout sessions
- Provide personal care, restroom support, and activities of daily living (ADLs) as required
- Document services and communicate with team members as needed
- Celebrating wins (big and small!) and genuinely having fun along the way
- Assist with job placement, volunteer opportunities, and skill development
- Provide job coaching and on-site employment support
- Provide transportation using personal vehicle and assist with public transportation training
Requirements
- Minimum of a Master's Degree in psychology, nursing, social work, ABA, rehabilitation, or comparable degree in a Human Services field
- Minimum of one (1) year of experience working with individuals with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities
- Experience addressing aggression and challenging behaviors strongly preferred
- Provide assistance with personal care and restroom support
- Conduct themselves in a professional, responsible and reliable manner
- Have the motivation to learn new skills and help people
- Demonstrate honesty and respect
- Adhere to written support plans for clients
- Ability to provide clear verbal guidance and redirection
- Possess a reliable automobile and be willing to transport clients
- CPR/First Aid certification prior to hire
- Negative TB test result
- Ability to sit, stand, walk, kneel, squat, and lift 25 lbs.
- Physically assist, guide, and facilitate movement of clients that need assistance (e.g., transfer in/out of wheelchair) and other mobility issues specific to client, and stand or walk for extended periods of time
- Possess a valid California Driver's license and provide a current driving record issued by the DMV
- Provide proof of current car insurance
- Complete Acre Training within first year of employment
Benefits
- Paid Training
- Dental Insurance
- Employee Assistance Program
- Health Insurance
- Life Insurance
- Paid Time Off
- Vision Insurance
- Mileage Reimbursement
Company overview
The Institute for Applied Behavior Analysis (IABA) is a specialized behavioral health organization dedicated to providing evidence-based treatment and support services for individuals with developmental disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, and behavioral challenges. Founded on the principles of applied behavior analysis (ABA), the institute offers comprehensive assessment, intervention, and training programs designed to improve quality of life and functional independence. IABA's services typically include behavior assessment and intervention planning, skill acquisition programs, behavior reduction strategies, parent and caregiver training, and staff development. The organization emphasizes data-driven approaches and individualized treatment plans tailored to each client's unique needs. With a focus on ethical practice and clinical excellence, IABA serves as a resource for families, schools, and community organizations seeking effective behavioral support. Their work contributes to advancing the field of applied behavior analysis through clinical services, professional training, and community education initiatives.