Recreation & Employment Specialist

Summary of Position:

The Recreation & Employment Specialist is located in our Sitka, AK, office. This position provides a variety of employment, recreation, and independent living services to seniors and individuals experiencing a disability. The Recreation & Employment Specialist will collaborate closely with other Sitka staff to support employment programs, organize staff events, coordinate the loan closet, and manage other tasks. This role requires someone who can multitask in a sometimes fast-paced environment while maintaining a positive attitude and a good sense of humor.

Responsibilities and Duties:.

Lead the Pre-Employment Transitions Services program for middle school and transition-aged youth

Coordinate summer transition camps program in collaboration with partner agencies

Establish and maintain relationships with local employers and community partners to provide career exploration to youth and adults with disabilities.

Assist with recreation activities (i.e., biking, hiking, kayaking, paint nights, etc.)

Collaborate with the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) to provide one-on-one employment support and group activities for people with disabilities

Provide job search and job placement assistance, job readiness training, and on-the-job support and evaluations

Help individuals who are interested in self-employment;

Provide information and referrals to consumers, agencies, and others

Work with consumers to facilitate independent living plan goals and objectives

Complete reports, consumer notes, and other documentation

Provide public and community outreach presentations;

Research and recommend assistive technology that could be beneficial to employment and recreation

Assist with the Loan Closet Program, including check-out, return, and cleaning of loan closet items

Assist in any and all fundraising activities at SAIL

Other duties as assigned

Skills and Experience Required:

Embraces the Independent Living Philosophy

Serves as a role model for consumers of independent living

Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines

Expertise with personal computers

Experience writing grant proposals or other forms of professional written communication

Knowledge of disability rights, human service systems commonly accessed by seniors and people with disabilities, and other social service resources as well as state and federal benefits programs

National Certificate in Employment Services (can be obtained during first year of employment)

Wilderness First Aid or Wilderness First Responder (can be obtained during first year of employment)

Preferable, but not required skills and experience:

Knowledge of rural Alaska lifestyle and challenges

Knowledge of Native Alaskan Cultures and traditional values

Personal experience with a disability and/or the independent living movement

Core Competencies:

Ability to be flexible

Ability to communicate and work well with a variety of individuals

Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines

Ability to manage stress Ability to problem-solve situations as they arise Ability to work well in a team setting

Sense of humor in a variety of situations

A commitment to social justice and equity for those SAIL serves and the people we employ