Meg Ward

SPED 842

M4 Job Posting Analysis

Job Post: https://jocogov.hua.hrsmart.com/hrsmart/ats/Posting/view/3157/0

Job Description: Community Employment Specialist

Johnson County Developmental Supports (JCDS) service provider for adults
with intellectual/developmental disabilities.
Advocate for community-related employment aspirations and eligibility of
individual(s) with intellectual/developmental disabilities.
Ensures adequate ongoing support is provided.
Evaluation and documentation of individuals progress toward measurable goals.

1. As a Community Employment Specialist, I would collaborate with clients (i.e.

individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities) to determine needs,
interests, and aspirations of the individual. I would collaborate with family
members and other stakeholders to ensure meaningful support. Lastly, I would
network with community service providers and agencies to identify various
opportunities for my clients.

2. As a Community Employment Specialist, a huge component of my role would

include collaborating with community service providers and agencies to share
resources, to determine options for client(s), and to develop/ review plans. In
order to provide meaningful support, collaboration with outside stakeholders has
to be prevalent. Additionally, my role would require collaboration with the target
individual and the family. I would not be able to provide effective support without
really knowing the strengths, interests, needs, and preferences of my client(s)
and his or her family. To be an effective advocate, I need to be an effective
communicator of my clients interests.

3. Strengths I have a huge passion for people. I love being a part of a team,
working towards the attainment of mutual goals. I fiercely believe in justly
providing meaningful opportunities for individuals with intellectual/developmental
disabilities, especially adults. In collaborating with a team, I bring an energetic,
compassionate spirit that is very motivated to work hard. I enjoy finding
solutions.

Weaknesses When I believe in something, I am not easily moved. Although

that can be a strength, that quality easily becomes a weakness when it comes to
working in a team. It can be very tempting for me to not practice active listening
in a group setting when my ideas or beliefs are pre-determined. I am learning to
embrace the brainstorming phase of collaboration, accepting all ideas without
pre-judgment. I am learning to not criticize the thoughts and beliefs of others, but
instead to humbly see and receive from their perspective.