Employment Consultant

Fun, rewarding, happy, fulfilling, comfortable, joyful… if you like the sound of that, you would love to work for Best Buddies in Virginia & DC. This is how our team describes what it feels like to work for Best Buddies and be in a mission-driven environment every day.  

The primary responsibility of the Employment Consultant is to function as a coach, mentor, and vocational support professional working one-to-one with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), supporting them to successfully obtain employment in their communities, improving their quality of life, allowing them to gain greater levels of independence through work. The Employment Consultant offers support during the Job development/job-seeking process and provides coaching during onboarding and any needed follow-along support with a focus on fostering an independent workspace. 

The Employment Consultant is part of our staff team, all who support our annual keystone events - the Best Buddies Friendship Walk and the Best Buddies Homecoming: Champions of Inclusion Gala. There are many opportunities to work on events and activities for area Best Buddies. This is a job you will get a chance to try your skills in many avenues!

Remote work two days each week (Mondays and Fridays); Paid short- and long-term disability insurance, Medical FSA and Dependent Care FSA; 50% match for 401(k) Plan after 6 months of employment; Cellular phone reimbursement; Pet Benefits; Wellness Benefits: BetterHelp membership, ClassPass monthly fitness platform, and Headspace meditation. Professional development: sessions offered virtually include DEI, leadership and development.  Annual Staff Leadership Conference and Annual Best Buddies Leadership Conference, plus tuition reimbursement.

The opportunity to work in a kind, laid-back office with passionate and friendly colleagues who are committed to making our community more inclusive and believe in friendships for everyone.

Job Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree or minimum of two years of professional experience. Best Buddies program experience a plus. 
• Must be comfortable engaging with people with IDD and addressing sensitive issues. 
• Engaging and patient communicator able to quickly and effectively develop and balance multiple relationships while supporting individuals to achieve results.
• Basic presentation and facilitation skills
• Basic understanding of social media and familiarity with Office 365.
• Strong written communication and project/time management skills, including attention to detail
• Strong initiative, drive for results, and self-assessment skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Must be comfortable with frequent local travel, use personal cell phone, and work evenings and weekends as necessary in order to accomplish job responsibilities, and to support local BBI fundraising events.
• Access to an automobile with applicable insurance