Manager of Community Employment Services

Manager of Community Employment Services

Compensation & Benefits

Pay: Competitive, exempt-level salary $62K annually

Benefits: Excellent health insurance (NO deductible on most services!), four (4) weeks of vacation in your first year, and a comprehensive benefits package

Organization: The Arc of Litchfield County, Inc. (LARC)

Location: Litchfield County, Connecticut

Position Summary

The Manager of Community Employment Services provides strategic and operational leadership for vocational and employment programs supporting individuals with developmental disabilities in achieving meaningful, competitive, and integrated employment. This role ensures services are person-centered, outcomes-driven, and fully compliant with state and federal regulations, including Medicaid waiver requirements.

The Manager leads and supports a team of vocational specialists and job coaches, builds strong employer partnerships, and advances inclusive workforce practices that promote independence, dignity, and long-term employment success.

Key Responsibilities

Program Leadership

• • Develop, implement, and continuously improve vocational and community employment programs that emphasize person-centered planning and community integration
  • Ensure compliance with state developmental disability service standards, Medicaid waiver requirements, and organizational policies
  • Monitor program outcomes, including job placement and retention, and adjust strategies to enhance service quality and effectiveness

Service Delivery

• • Oversee individualized employment plans, vocational assessments, discovery processes, and job matching
  • Ensure staff provide high-quality job coaching, on-the-job training, and follow-along supports to participants and employers
  • Promote self-advocacy, independence, and skill development across all vocational services

Employer & Community Engagement

• • Cultivate and sustain partnerships with local employers to expand inclusive employment opportunities
  • Educate and support employers on disability awareness, accommodations, and inclusive workplace practices
  • Represent the program in community forums, workforce development initiatives, and employer outreach efforts

Compliance & Reporting

• • Maintain accurate and timely documentation in accordance with Medicaid waiver and state regulations
  • Prepare reports related to program performance, participant outcomes, and compliance audits
  • Ensure data integrity and adherence to best practices in vocational documentation

Staff Management & Development

• • Recruit, train, supervise, and evaluate vocational staff and job coaches
  • Provide coaching, mentoring, and professional development in supported employment best practices
  • Foster a culture of respect, inclusion, accountability, and continuous improvement

Qualifications

• • Bachelor’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling, Social Work, Human Services, or a related field required
  • (Master’s degree preferred)
  • Minimum of five (5) years of experience in vocational services or disability employment programs
  • At least two (2) years of supervisory or management experience
  • Demonstrated knowledge of supported employment principles, person-centered planning, and Medicaid waiver services
  • Strong communication, leadership, and relationship-building skills with staff, employers, and community partners
  • Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation

Preferred Certifications

• • ACRE Employment Services Certificate, Certified Employment Support Professional (CESP), or similar credential
  • Training or experience in Customized Employment or Discovery processes

Core Competencies

• • Advocacy: Champions inclusion, equity, and the rights of individuals with developmental disabilities
  • Leadership: Inspires and guides teams toward excellence and accountability
  • Collaboration: Builds strong partnerships with employers, families, and community agencies
  • Compliance: Maintains high standards for documentation, quality assurance, and regulatory adherence

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.

Pay: Competitive, exempt-level salary $62K annually

Benefits: Excellent health insurance (NO deductible on most services!), four (4) weeks of vacation in your first year, 12 paid holidays and a comprehensive benefits package

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