Lead Employment Consultant

Best Buddies International

. Coach, mentor, and provide vocational support one-to-one to individuals with IDD .

Posted 9/23/2026full-timeBellevue • Washington • United StatesSenior💰 $45,000 - $50,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in providing vocational support and advocacy for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), utilizing a person-centered approach to enhance job search and training experiences. Proficient in managing compliance documentation and fostering relationships with participants, employers, and funding agencies.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Vocational SupportInterpersonal SkillsProject ManagementPublic SpeakingCompliance Management

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Documentation ManagementJob Search SupportSkill DevelopmentFunding IdentificationCaseload ManagementBilling DocumentationSafety TrainingSocial Security GuidanceTravel TrainingBest Buddies Program Experience

Soft Skills

EmpathyProfessionalismRelationship ManagementAttention to DetailCollaboration

Tools & Technologies

SETWorksOffice 365Social Media Platforms

Certifications & Qualifications

State AccreditationFederal Suitability Clearance

Industry Keywords

Intellectual and Developmental DisabilitiesEmployment BarriersPerson-Centered ApproachTicket to Work ProgramVocational Rehabilitation

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Coach, mentor, and provide vocational support one-to-one to individuals with IDD
Support participants through job searching, onboarding, and ongoing training
Manage participant documentation, compliance requirements, and employer relationships
Provide personalized guidance, skill development, advocacy, and support in overcoming employment barriers
Steer office Jobs program expansion plans, identify funding opportunities, serve as a contact for funding agencies and national employer partners, and develop long-term growth and staffing plans
Use a person-centered approach to support job searches aligned with participants’ skills, interests, communities, and transportation options
Provide support during orientation, onboarding, and early training, gradually fading support toward quarterly contact
Maintain relationships with participants, guardians, families, Vocational Rehabilitation counselors, advocates, and employers
Identify workplace natural supports and promote inclusion
Educate participants and families about career opportunities and programs such as Ticket to Work
Guide participants and families through Social Security issues and refer them to WIPA/CWIC resources
Advocate for equal treatment and fair wages while maintaining employer relationships
Maintain timely participant documentation in SETWorks
Conduct caseload reviews with supervisors
Provide travel training and public transportation assistance
Educate participants on workplace safety guidelines and emergency procedures
Promote other Best Buddies programs and support social connections
Potentially serve as Partnership Lead for National Employer Partners
Participate in National Jobs team initiatives and present to other mission pillars
Expand employment opportunities with existing and prospective employers
Contribute to social media, employer recognition activities, and annual initiatives
Represent Best Buddies at local networking events
Identify funding opportunities, Walk team candidates, and Champion of the Year prospects
Manage an employed-participant caseload, billable-service tracking, and compliance requirements in SETWorks
Complete IWPPs, annual paperwork, safety exercises, and funding-agency reports
Ensure accurate and timely billing documentation and reimbursement submissions
Attend staff meetings, compliance training, National Jobs team calls, workshops, and leadership events
Mentor new Employment Consultants

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s degree and minimum 2 years of professional experience, OR minimum 5 years relevant experience
Best Buddies program experience a plus
Ability to engage comfortably with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), addressing sensitive topics with empathy and professionalism
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to manage multiple relationships
Basic public speaking, group facilitation, and presentation skills
Familiarity with Office 365 and basic understanding of social media platforms
Strong writing ability, attention to detail, and proficiency in project and time management
Ability to work autonomously and collaborate effectively in a dynamic, fast-paced environment
Willingness to travel frequently within the local area
Willingness to use a personal cell phone for work-related communication
Occasional weekend availability for fundraising events and initiatives
Access to an automobile with applicable insurance or other reliable transportation
Employment contingent upon state accreditation
Ability to obtain federal suitability clearance for the Ticket to Work Program

Benefits

Comp & perks

Comprehensive and generous benefits program
Financial security benefits
Health and wellness benefits
Time off
Professional development opportunities including workshops and leadership events
In-house compliance training
Occasional weekend work may be necessary to support fundraising events and initiatives