STAFF SPECIALIST I EDUCATION

The Maryland State Department of Education is dedicated to supporting a world-class educational system that prepares all students for college and career success in the 21st century. With excellent stewardship from our divisions, we oversee State and federal programs that support the needs of a diverse population – students, teachers, principals, and other educators throughout Maryland.

Standard Salary Schedule: Grade 15

There are two positions available.  One position is located in each of the following counties.  Please make sure to select on the employment application for which location(s) you are willing to accept employment.

These are Contractual positions in the field of vocational rehabilitation responsible for planning, developing and coordinating programs and initiatives to promote competitive integrated employment outcomes for persons with significant disabilities.

Promote and market the employment of persons who have significant disabilities by developing active partnerships with businesses and business related organizations and workforce partners, such as chambers of commerce, Business Leadership Networks, Society of Human Resource Managers (SHRM), DLLR, American Job Centers, and commerce and economic development offices.  Collaborate with community and workforce partners to develop employment alliances or job placement networks.  Provide technical assistance and training to businesses throughout the state regarding interviewing and hiring persons with disabilities, disability etiquette, tax credit opportunities, the Americans with Disabilities Act and reasonable accommodations.  Coordinate customized training program opportunities with local businesses and DORS Business Services staff.  Consult regularly with VR Specialists and consumers to provide technical assistance regarding individual employment goals and job readiness, including guidance on job applications and resumes.  Facilitate employment-related workshops providing training on job readiness activities for DORS consumers.  Provide resource information and consultation on a regular schedule regarding labor market information, trends, economic development and workforce opportunities to support DORS staff responsible for providing career guidance to persons with significant disabilities.  Serve as an integral member of the agency’s statewide business services team.  Document activities in AWARE case management system.

EDUCATION: Possession of a Bachelor's Degree in a business related field (preferred) or rehabilitation counseling or a closely related field. EXPERIENCE: One year of professional experience in business relations regarding job placement and/or recruiting career counseling, and job development. Bilingual skills are preferred.  Experience working with individuals with disabilities preferred.

Knowledge of: local business organizations; business operations; economic development initiatives; practices relating to job search and employer outreach activities; labor market information; laws and regulations governing the vocational rehabilitation program, social security and social services.  Ability to:  communicate effectively with different professional populations; meet established performance standards; develop and deliver group employment programs; evaluate the job readiness of persons with disabilities; provide basic information on possible worksite accommodations and analyze and interpret medical, psychological and vocational reports.  Skills to: operate an automated client tracking system and communicate effectively using Microsoft Office products.  Ability to travel statewide.

Applicants must consent to State Police Investigation (fingerprinting) as a routine procedure for all employees with this Agency.

Contractual employees who work for an agency covered under the State Employee and Retiree Health and Welfare Benefits Program, have a current employment contract and work 30 or more hours a week (or on average 130 hours per month) may be eligible for subsidized health benefits coverage for themselves and their dependents. As a contractual employee, you will be responsible for paying 25% of the premiums for your medical and prescription coverage, including any eligible dependents you have enrolled. The State of Maryland will subsidize the remaining 75% of the cost for these benefits. You can also elect to enroll in dental coverage, accidental death and dismemberment insurance, and life insurance, but will be responsible to pay the full premium for these benefits.

Applicants must complete the MD State Government on-line application for employment recruitment #22-005296-0001. The Application must clearly demonstrate that the applicant meets the prerequisite Minimum Qualifications for the position. Please do not put "See Resume" in the job duties section of your application; your application will not be considered. Paper applications can be completed and faxed to 410-554-9397 or mailed to DORS Human Resource Department at 2301 Argonne Drive, Baltimore, MD 21218. To obtain a paper application visit our website dors.maryland.gov or marylandpublicschools.org. TDD (410) 554-9399. Inquiries can be made to 410-554-9394. Appropriate accommodations can be made for individuals with disabilities.