Work Experience Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Work Experience Specialist

If you are driven by a desire to make a meaningful difference in your community and shape brighter futures, Help Group is the organization for you! We're one of the largest nonprofits of our kind in the U.S., offering diverse programs for individuals and families affected by autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, developmental delays, abuse, mental health, and social-emotional challenges. We offer unparalleled academic programs, mental health support, therapy, life coaching, vocational training, specialized social and residential programs, and resources for LGBTQ+ youth and families. These initiatives touch the lives of over 6,000 clients a year and continue to expand in reach and impact. At the heart of Help Group's mission is a steadfast commitment to empowering individuals to reach their full potential and live positive, productive, and fulfilling lives. We invite passionate professionals to join us in supporting the development of our students, clients, and residents as we grow! Here, you'll find not just a job, but an opportunity to grow your career in a deeply rewarding environment!

Help Group prepares teens and adults for success in the workplace through a range of skill and confidence-building services. Participants receive career assessments, employment coaching, and hands-on job experience, with opportunities available both on-site and in the community. Our programs are designed to assist both Help Group students and individuals from the broader community. Whether someone is exploring career interests for the first time or building skills to re-enter the workforce, our employment specialists and support teams provide guidance, structure, and encouragement throughout their journey.

Position Details:

• Location: Sherman Oaks
  
• Full-Time: Monday – Friday 9:00 – 5:30 with flexibility for occasional extended hours

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with school principals, teachers, and the Vocational Director to design, coordinate, and oversee work experience programs that meet funder requirements and program goals
• Manage all program documentation, student records, data entry, reporting, and compliance to ensure accuracy, timeliness, and adherence to program standards
• Develop students' vocational goals and objectives while securing and coordinating both paid and unpaid on- and off-campus work opportunities
• Provide student training, supervision, coaching, and ongoing support to promote successful employment placements
• Evaluate and continuously improve work experience programs through ongoing assessment, while participating in planning meetings, IEP/ITP conferences, and collaborating with school staff, therapists, and outside agencies
• Maintain required professional certifications (including CPI), attend trainings and conferences, and apply crisis intervention techniques in accordance with school policies

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree preferred, not required
• Valid California driver’s license with a clean driving record
• Background in special education, vocational rehabilitation, psychology, or a related field
• 2 years of direct experience supporting individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities
• Ability to develop, coordinate, and oversee work experience programs while collaborating with school personnel and community employers to create job opportunities
• Strong organizational and computer skills for accurate documentation, data entry, and reporting
• Ability to safely respond to behavioral crises using CPI techniques and physically keep pace with clients during behavioral incidents or AWOL situations

Benefits

Help Group offers wonderful training opportunities, a supportive, professional work environment, and great benefits, including:   

• Insurance plans for Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance -options for 100% employer sponsored plans
• 403b Retirement Plan    
• 529 College Savings Plan
• Employee Assistance Program 
• Flexible Spending Account    
• Vacation and Sick Leave
• Benefit Hub -Employee Rewards and Incentives
• Pet Insurance