Job Development Specialist

Job Development Specialist

Pay Rate: $25.75–$26.75/hour

STAR, Inc. is looking for a motivated, outgoing, and relationship-focused Job Development Specialist to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in finding meaningful employment. This position is ideal for someone who enjoys connecting with people, developing relationships with local businesses, and creating employment opportunities that reflect each individual's unique strengths, interests, and career goals.

About STAR, Inc.

For more than 70 years, STAR, Inc. has provided services and support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families throughout the Norwalk, CT area and beyond. As a nonprofit organization, we are dedicated to helping the individuals we support live fulfilling lives, achieve personal goals, and remain active members of their communities. Our work is guided by the values of inclusion, independence, and freedom of choice.

What You'll Do as a Job Development Specialist

As a Job Development Specialist, you will work alongside individuals and their support teams to identify employment interests, explore career possibilities, and create opportunities for success. You will also serve as a link between job seekers and local businesses by developing employer relationships, identifying workforce needs, and connecting individuals with positions suited to their skills and abilities.

Responsibilities include:

• Assessing each individual's interests, strengths, skills, and employment preferences to develop personalized job search strategies.

• Building and cultivating relationships with local businesses and employers to generate employment opportunities.

• Engaging in employer outreach through phone calls, in-person meetings, referrals, networking events, and other community-based approaches.

• Partnering with individuals and their support teams to provide guidance and assistance throughout the job search and placement process.

• Exploring employment options that encourage greater independence, inclusion, and community involvement.

• Promoting inclusive hiring practices and educating employers about the contributions individuals with diverse abilities can bring to the workplace.

This position offers the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in people's lives by helping individuals gain independence, develop new skills, and experience the rewards of employment. The ideal candidate will believe in the value of inclusive workplaces and the importance of helping everyone who wants to work find opportunities that are meaningful to them.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required.

• Previous experience in job development, employment services, or job placement.

• Familiarity with customized employment practices is a plus.

• A genuine commitment to inclusive employment and supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in achieving their career goals.

• Strong communication, networking, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to develop productive relationships with employers and community partners.

Schedule

Full-time position, 35 hours per week, Monday through Friday, with a one-half-hour unpaid lunch break.

Interested in Making a Difference?

Be part of a team dedicated to creating opportunities and supporting individuals as they work toward their employment goals. If you enjoy building connections, working with local businesses, and helping others discover their potential, we encourage you to apply today! The application process takes approximately five minutes.

STAR, Inc. is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.