Title: Training Specialist

Summary of Functions:

As a Training Specialist, regular interaction with I/DD employee is to be expected. Build relationships to learn where there are professional gaps and where employees have skills to offer The Arc-PPR. Motivating employees is an important part of the job, helping employees learn to navigate the social aspects of the workplace. Work closely with employees and Arc-PPR staff to identify areas for improvement or training needs. Responsible for coordinating group training sessions when needed to improve employee production in similar areas. Provide advocacy for children and adults participants with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) to ensure their rights are protected, their needs are met, and their wants are heard.  Ensure that (I/DD) participants are receiving fair and just treatment and equal representation.  Maintain confidentiality with (I/DD) participants and The Arc’s business both inside the office and in the community. 

Reports to:  Executive Director

Essential Job Duties:

Training:

• Plan and Implement Employee training strategy with multiple employees
• Assess professional strengths and weaknesses of employees
• Discover what motivates employees and assist them in utilizing that motivation in the workplace
• Assist employees with I/DD excel in their job functions

Advocacy:

• Identify the needs and resources required for children and/or adults referred by themselves, parents/guardians, community member, case managers, social workers or school personnel and determine the need for an advocacy specialist.
• Assist (I/DD) participants, and when appropriate their family/guardian/friends, in developing individualized supports for advocacy.
• Assist (I/DD) participants by representing their interests in a variety of settings (i.e., the judicial, DD services sector, education systems and the community at large).

Participants and Community Education:

• Provide information and education to others in the service sector and the community about the individual rights of people with intellectual and developmental and related disabilities.
• Serve as a role model to others in the community around the issue of respecting those with I/DD disabilities.
• Provide information and education about The Arc of the Pikes Peak Region, what we do, what supports are available and how we might be able to help them.

Reporting:

• Maintain all client information and records according to agency policies and procedures.
• Record all documentation needed to demonstrate the results of activities as they relate to desired outcomes.
• Provide any other documentation or information as requested accurately and in a timely fashion.

• Communicate to the Advocacy Coordinator and the Executive Director any staff, volunteer and/or third party problems that are not being resolved and which could be or have the potential to be damaging, embarrassing or derogatory in any manner to The Arc.
• Provide status reports to the Advocacy Coordinator.

Community Relations:

• Represent the interests of The Arc and its constituents as needed at community meetings, organizations, etc.
• Represent The Arc’s values and beliefs in a fair and effective manner at all times and during all community interactions.
• As assigned, participate actively in community efforts, task forces or on specific committees.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Excellent Communication Skills
• Strong Problem solving and Time Management Skills
• Ability to stay organized when dealing with multiple people and projects
• Upbeat and Positive Attitude
• Ability to assess human service needs and appropriate interventions.
• Ability to present issues in a manner that is fair, forthright and assertive and creates respect by others.
• Ability to maintain accurate, complete records that others can easily interpret.
• Ability to articulate thoughts and ideas clearly and succinctly both verbally and in writing and communicate with people from diverse backgrounds with diverse opinions.
• Knowledge of the I/DD disability service system is desirable.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Disability Studies, Human Services or a related field
• Associates Degree with 5years experience in a related I/DD field.
• A current, valid driver’s license and valid automobile insurance required.
• Pass background check and pre-employment drug test

FLSA Status:

Full-Time

Non-Exempt

Annual Wage $39,520 – $45,760