Career Program Specialist
The Career Program Specialist will assist in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of the career development and work-based learning experiences for students participating in the UI REACH (Realizing Educational and Career Hopes) Program, including some of the following: career development activities and assessments, job coaching, and career education instruction.
A primary focus of this position will be supporting students in work-based learning experiences through job coaching, employer communication and training, and person-centered career development.
Position Terms: Specified term appointment at a 100% effort during the school year starting approximately August 1 – May 31. The position will be placed on unpaid leave for June and July. Health and Dental benefits continue while on leave. The specified term may be eligible for renewal.
Position requires evening and weekend work schedules as assigned and participation in an on-call duty rotation.
Location: Lindquist Center, Iowa City, Iowa
Specific Job Duties and Tasks
- Utilize a person-centered approach in career development and internship placements.
- Provide individualized job coaching and assessments to support students in the workplace. Support to include task analysis, workplace skills assessments, situational assessments, assistive technology, and accommodations.
- Prepare students for entry into the job market through interview practice, resume writing, job search tools, and identifying credentials or certificates to increase marketability.
- Assist in the implementation of Career curriculum and courses.
- Utilize strength-based and positive behavior supports to create a positive climate in all settings.
- Serve on the Student Support Team for assigned students in determining individualized strategies for student success.
- Mentor and support UI REACH students, one-to-one and in career areas.
- Monitor student progress: communicate progress and/or concerns and issues to the UI REACH administrative team and families. Communicate regularly with UI REACH parents and/or guardians.
- Utilize program approved systems such as Teams, SharePoint, and Salesforce for documentation, data collection, assessments and student reports.
- Employ CARF and NCC standards related to employment services and requirements associated with a Comprehensive Transition Program to ensure accreditation conformance and best practices.
- Have the ability to work evenings and weekends as assigned. Participate in an On-Call duty rotation. Assist students in conflict resolution, problem-solving, and responding to emergencies.
- Assist in the admissions process, enrollment, and orientation of UI REACH students.
- Participate in professional development and training opportunities to ensure best practices are being implemented.
- Assist students in identifying and connecting with employment resources on campus and in the community, or other employment-related student support services or organizations.
- Assist in the supervision of student staff as assigned.
- Maintain effective working relationships with faculty, staff, students, families, alumni, and the public including campus and community partners, adult service agencies, and other organizations.
- Participate in the collection of program and program component outcome data.
To obtain the full job description including key areas of responsibility, technical competencies, and desirable qualifications, please contact Alex-Schutman@uiowa.edu
About UI Reach
UI REACH (Realizing Educational and Career Hopes) is nested in the UI College of Education and is a comprehensive transition program for college-age students with intellectual, cognitive, and learning disabilities. UI REACH offers an integrated college experience in a caring and structured environment. Academics, career and transition, social growth, and campus life are areas of focus. UI REACH is a four-year program with early graduation options.
Education Required:
- A Bachelor's degree in fields such as education, therapeutic recreation, rehabilitation counseling, and mental health or the equivalent combination of education and relevant work experience.
Required Qualifications:
- Typical experience is six months to one year.
- Demonstrated successful experience working in a team environment by exhibiting effective teamwork and contributing to an overall positive and productive work/team environment.
- Ability to work with and build effective relationships with a variety of individuals and groups in a constructive and civil manner while appreciating the unique contributions of individuals.
- Ability to effectively communicate (written and verbally); able to communicate effectively with internal and external constituents.
- CESP or ACRE certification (must have or acquire within 1 year of employment).
- Proficiency in computer software applications.
- Demonstrated experience working with individuals with intellectual or development disabilities.
- Valid driver's license and ability to meet UI Fleet Safety Standards.
Desired Qualifications:
- Experience with career education instruction, and/or transition planning (e.g., advising, connecting with services, and making referrals).
- Experience connecting persons with disabilities with work experiences and supporting students at a job site or work experience.
Application Details
In order to be considered for an interview, applicants must upload:
- Resume
- Cover Letter
Job openings are posted for a minimum of 14 calendar days. This job may be removed from posting and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended. Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check and credential/education verification. 5 professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process.
For questions, contact Alex Schutman at Alex-Schutman@uiowa.edu
Benefits Highlights
- Regular salaried position. Pay level 3A. Located in Iowa City, Iowa.
- Fringe benefit package including paid vacation; sick leave; health, dental, life and disability insurance options; and generous employer contributions into retirement plans.
- For more information about Why Iowa? Click here.
About Iowa
Joining the University of Iowa means becoming a vital part of the Hawkeye community, where your work directly impacts education, research, and student success. Enjoy exceptional health coverage, university-paid life insurance, robust retirement plans, and generous leave policies. Benefit from 24/7 support services, well-being resources, and access to UI Health Care specialists. Grow professionally with advanced training, leadership development, and tuition assistance. Iowa City offers a great quality of life with world-class performances at Hancher Auditorium, Big Ten athletics, top-ranked public schools, and outdoor recreation. Join us in making a difference at a leading Big Ten university and premier public research institution.
Equal opportunity employer
The University of Iowa is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment free from discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, pregnancy (including childbirth and related conditions), disability, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, service in the U.S. military, sexual orientation, or associational preferences.
Persons with disabilities who need assistance or accommodations with the application or interview process may contact University Human Resources/Faculty and Staff Disability Services, (319) 335-2660 or fsds@uiowa.edu. For jobs in UI Health care, please contact UI Health care Leave & Disability Administration at 319-356-7543.
