Job Coaching and Job Development Careers

Are you interested in a career in Supported Employment? Read on to learn more about this exciting profession and ways to get started.

What is supported employment?

Supported employment is a range of services that support a person with disabilities in seeking and securing employment in their community. 

Job coaches support individuals with disabilities in learning the tasks and responsibilities of their job. They work with both the employee and the employer to learn about the workplace culture, workplace roles, and workplace responsibilities of the individuals they’re supporting. Job coaches utilize best practice strategies to assist individuals with learning their job tasks in ways that match their learning styles and enable them to become an integrated member of their work setting.

Job developers work with job seekers to identify and apply for employment opportunities that match their interests, goals, and skills. Job developers build an employer network in order to identify employment vacancies and understand local business needs. Job developers can also create customized employment opportunities for job seekers through building relationships with employers and understanding the needs of the job seeker.

What training or certifications do I need to start a career in Supported Employment?

Partners for Employment offers two courses to prepare you for a career in Supported Employment:
Introduction to Supported Employment: a 5-hour course to get you started
College of Employment Services: a 40-hour course spread over 15 weeks that provides the basis for certification in basic employment services.