Job DetailsLevel: ExperiencedJob Location: VOCATIONAL PROGRAM - TORRINGTON, CT 06790Position Type: Full TimeSalary Range: $19.20 - $19.20 HourlyJob Shift: 1st ShiftVocational Job Coach / Project SEARCH Skills Trainer

Organization: The Arc of Litchfield County, Inc. (LARC)
Program: Project SEARCH
Position Type: Full-Time
Pay: $19.20 per hour
Benefits: Comprehensive health insurance, generous paid time off, professional development, and more

Make a Difference Where It Matters Most

Are you passionate about helping young adults discover their strengths, build confidence, and succeed in meaningful employment?

At LARC, we believe work is more than a paycheck—it’s dignity, purpose, and belonging. As a Vocational Job Coach / Project SEARCH Skills Trainer, you will play a critical role in supporting young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) as they transition from school to competitive, integrated employment.

This position’s primary responsibility is serving as a Skills Trainer, as defined by Project SEARCH program guidelines, providing hands-on, individualized instruction and support within real workplace settings.

What You’ll Do

As a Project SEARCH Skills Trainer, you will provide on-site job coaching and classroom support to interns participating in a transition-to-work internship program. Your work will directly support skill acquisition, independence, and long-term employment success.

You will:

Provide hands-on, individualized job training within various host site departments.
Support interns during program hours with classroom instruction and internship task training.
Help interns meet productivity, performance, and workplace behavior expectations.
Foster social skills and effective workplace communication.
Support interns in developing natural supports and positive relationships with coworkers.
Create and implement task analyses using evidence-based training techniques (including Gentle Teaching).
Break down job tasks and use visual, verbal, and physical prompts as appropriate.
Adapt teaching strategies to align with each intern’s learning style and needs.
Implement behavior support plans, activities of daily living programs, and other individualized supports.
Maintain accurate daily documentation and progress notes for each assigned intern.
Communicate regularly with the Project SEARCH Manager regarding intern progress, concerns.
Accompany interns to job interviews and assist with onboarding and follow-up as needed.
Assist in other programs within the vocational department when Project Search is not in session.

 QualificationsWhat You’ll Bring

Minimum of a high school diploma or GED required
(Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in special education, psychology, human services, or a related field preferred)
At least two (2) years of experience in job coaching, career development, vocational training, or a related role supporting individuals with disabilities
Strong time management and organizational skills, with the ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities across settings
Excellent interpersonal, communication, and relationship-building skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with interns, families, educators, employers, and team members
Basic computer skills and strong verbal and written communication abilities for documentation and progress reporting
Flexibility and willingness to work across multiple sites and/or programs, adjusting schedules as program needs require
Must hold a current Connecticut driver’s license, maintain a clean driving record, and have reliable transportation.

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

This position requires the ability to perform a range of physical activities necessary to support individuals in community-based and program settings. The role involves regular movement, hands-on support, and effective communication throughout the workday.

Candidates must be able to:

Communicate clearly through speaking and hearing to provide instruction, share information, and collaborate with individuals served, coworkers, and community partners
Use basic computer and writing skills to complete documentation and program records
Alternate between sitting, standing, and walking for extended periods
Bend, stoop, crouch, kneel, and reach as needed to support individuals, perform job tasks, or respond to emergencies
Use fine and gross motor skills with both hands for tasks such as job coaching, handling materials, and providing physical assistance when required
Climb stairs and ramps and navigate varied indoor and outdoor environments
Drive a vehicle safely and operate foot and hand controls as needed
Push, pull, lift, and carry up to 50 pounds, with occasional lifting of greater weight as required by the role

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.