Lead, Employment Consultant

Best Buddies International

. Coach, mentor, and provide one-to-one vocational support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities .

Posted 10/24/2026full-timeMcLean • Virginia • United StatesSenior💰 $45,000 - $48,000 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, focusing on job searching, onboarding, and skill development. Proficient in managing compliance documentation and fostering relationships with employers and funding agencies.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Vocational SupportInterpersonal SkillsProject ManagementPublic SpeakingCompliance Documentation

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Job SearchingOnboardingSkill DevelopmentDocumentation ManagementFunding OpportunitiesParticipant AdvocacyTravel TrainingSocial Security GuidanceCaseload ReviewsProgram Compliance

Soft Skills

EmpathyProfessionalismRelationship ManagementCollaborationAttention to Detail

Tools & Technologies

Office 365SETWorksSocial Media Platforms

Certifications & Qualifications

State AccreditationFederal Suitability Clearance

Industry Keywords

Intellectual DisabilitiesDevelopmental DisabilitiesBest Buddies ProgramVocational RehabilitationEmployment Opportunities

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Coach, mentor, and provide one-to-one vocational support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities
Support participants through job searching, onboarding, and ongoing training
Manage essential documentation, compliance requirements, and employer relationships
Provide personalized guidance, skill development, and advocacy to help participants secure meaningful employment
Steer expansion plans for the office’s Jobs program
Identify new funding opportunities and serve as point of contact for funding agencies and national employer partners
Build long-term plans for program growth and staffing
Support job searches using a person-centered approach aligned with participants’ skills, interests, communities, and transportation options
Provide orientation, onboarding, early-stage training, travel training, and public transportation assistance
Develop relationships with individuals, guardians, families, Vocational Rehabilitation counselors, advocates, and employers
Identify workplace natural supports and advocate for equal treatment and fair wages
Guide participants and families on Social Security issues and referrals to WIPA and CWIC resources
Maintain detailed participant documentation, progress records, and outcomes in SETWorks
Conduct caseload reviews and complete required program, billing, compliance, and funding documentation
Collaborate with Jobs teams and supervisors to expand employment opportunities and establish employer relationships
Represent Best Buddies at networking events and employer recognition activities
Facilitate connections to funding opportunities and support fundraising initiatives
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 IDD, addressing sensitive topics with empathy and professionalism
Strong interpersonal skills to manage multiple relationships and guide individuals toward success
Basic skills in public speaking, group facilitation, and delivering engaging presentations
Familiarity with Office 365 and a 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 and use a personal cell phone for work-related communication
Willingness to work occasional weekends for fundraising events and other initiatives
Access to an automobile with applicable insurance or other reliable transportation
Employment contingent upon state accreditation and ability to obtain federal suitability clearance for the Ticket to Work Program

Benefits

Comp & perks

Comprehensive and generous benefits program including financial security, health and wellness, and time off
Professional development opportunities including workshops and leadership events
Annual compliance training
Participation in conferences, workshops, and leadership events