Union County College is a public comprehensive community college providing quality, affordable, accessible educational programs that serve the greater Union County region. It is the oldest of New Jerseys 19 Associate Degree Colleges, serving both career-minded and transfer-oriented students since 1933. The College enrolls almost 30,000 credit, non-credit and continuing education students and is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Many programs lead to the Associate in Arts, Science and Applied Science degrees.
Campus: Cranford
General Description:
Under the direction of the Director, the Specialist will work with students who participate in The Center for Adult Transitions at Union College of Union County, N.J. The Center's mission is to enhance the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities by providing transitional services, peer mentoring, educational opportunities, career exploration and linkage to community resources. The Center will support the educational mission of Union College by creating an inclusive community that meets the diverse needs of students through advocacy, equitable access, support, and resources.
The Center for Adult Transitions at Union College will serve a small cohort of students with intellectual and developmental disabilities upon graduation from high school to the age of 24 with mentoring, job coaching, educational services, skill training and wrap-around services. The Center will coordinate with local community agencies, resources, and employers to ensure students receive support toward achieving their goals.
Characteristics, Duties and Responsibilities:
• Student centered approach that values diversity and promotes inclusion and equity.
• Knowledge of disability laws and regulations, including the ADA as amended and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.
• Knowledge of appropriate documentation and the interactive process for setting accommodations.
• Knowledge of learning theory and of current research related to learning disabilities and educational adaptations for students with disabilities.
• Advocates for the needs of students with disabilities.
• Works collaboratively with the Coordinator of the Center for Adult Transitions in all aspects of the program.
• Knowledge of creating schedules that support the goals on the individual student goal plan.
• Identifies career goals and guides students in participating in activities that support future employment in collaboration with community agencies.
• Supports peer mentors when working with students to gain fuller access to Union College events, clubs, and other areas of interest.
• Assists students in gaining job skills.
• Assists students in practicing self-advocacy and self-determination to develop skills for daily living.
• Teaches study and organization skills.
• Meets with students to discuss homework, projects, and upcoming exams/quizzes.
• Assists students in developing study skills and strategies.
• Responds to inquiries via in-person meetings, phone, text, and email.
• Maintains appropriate records.
• Gathers data and prepares reports as required.
• Works collaboratively with community agencies including The Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, the Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired, testing and assessment personnel and centers, high school personnel, other community agencies, and individuals.
• Performs other responsibilities assigned by supervisor or designee.
Education Requirements:
Master's Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling, Special Education, Teaching, Social Work, or closely related area required.
Experience:
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience in providing direct services to persons with disabilities or experience in college counseling and academic advising/counseling.
Competencies and Skills Required:
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience in providing direct services to persons with disabilities or experience in college counseling and academic advising/counseling.
Physical Demands and Work Environment:
• This position's duties are normally performed in a typical interior/residence work environment, based on the activity scheduled.
• Some physical effort required; however, the employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
• No or very limited exposure to physical risk.
• Some travel required.
Union County College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, marital status, religion, age, disability, handicap or other legally protected status in its provision of employment, education, and activities, or other services. Union County College is an EEO/AAP Employer/Protected Veteran/Disabled Disclaimer: This job description outlines the general nature and key features performed by various positions that share the same job classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties and qualifications required of all employees assigned to the job. Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or re-assign duties to this job at any time due to reasonable accommodations or other business reasons. Union County College offers a competitive compensation package and salaries that are commensurate with experience and qualifications. The following benefits are also provided: Medical benefits and pension plan offered through the State of NJ; Dental and vision benefits; Vacation days based on accrual system; Ten paid holidays and three floating holidays that are determined by the College; Tuition remission for employee, spouse, and eligible children for credit and non-credit courses; and Tuition reimbursement for approved degree programs at an accredited college or university.