"Alerted.org

Transition Alliance Program (TAP) Specialist JobID: 1501

+ Position Type:

Support Staff/ Transition Alliance Program Coordinator

+ Date Posted:

7/9/2025

+ Location:

Ames High School

+ Closing Date:

07/28/2025

Welcome to Ames Community School District, where we are more than just a workplace – we are a community dedicated to supporting personal and professional growth. As a member of Ames CSD, you’ll enjoy competitive pay and access to a wide range of employee discount programs. You'll also be part of an organization that values individuals for who they are and encourages collaboration, innovation, and mutual respect. We offer modern, well-equipped facilities—newly built and thoughtfully renovated—to ensure you have the tools and environment needed to thrive in your role. Join us at Ames CSD, where your strengths are celebrated, your potential is nurtured, and you’re surrounded by a community that champions your success.Ames CSD is seeking a Transition Alliance Program Specialist for the 2025-2026 school year.

SummaryThe Transition Alliance Program (TAP) is a pattern of service for youth with disabilities centered around the goal of obtaining competitive integrated employment for eligible youth. The TAP Specialist is responsible for assisting the TAP coordinator with the planning and coordination of vocational services provided to high school students and young adults with disabilities. The Specialist is under the direction of the high school principals as well as the Director of Special Education. The Specialist will assist in providing comprehensive services for youth in the following areas: personal counseling, assessment, instruction, job development and placement activities; development of apprenticeships and community based work experiences; compilation of labor market information; collaboration with Vocational Rehabilitation, school personnel and adult service providers; development of transition plans in coordination of IEPs and employment plans; teaching of competencies based on individual student needs; maintenance of case records and reports, including follow up until the individual reaches age 25.

Schedule: Monday-Friday 7:30-4:00; 205-day work calendarResponsibilities/Essential Functions:

+ Assists in carrying out all expected duties including intake, screening, evaluation, goal development, casework activities, placement, guidance and referral.

+ Provides related case file documentation and reporting including comprehensive records to parents or guardians, the building principals, district special education department, and Vocational Rehabilitation on the progress and adjustment of each student as directed by the TAP Coordinator.

+ Under the direction of the TAP Coordinator, works with employers to develop work opportunities for students such as: internships, summer employment, paid/unpaid work experiences.

+ Implements effective strategies that increase independent living and inclusion of youth with disabilities in their communities and competitive integrated workplaces, specifically classroom involvement with youth on practicing work skills, implementation of strategies to mitigate barriers to employment, and supportive job coaching for students obtaining paid and unpaid employment experiences within the community.

+ Develops and improves strategies for individuals with intellectual and significant disabilities to live independently, participate in postsecondary education experiences, and obtain and retain competitive integrated employment.

+ Provides marketing services through public speaking and other activities designed to enhance the public image and understanding of transition services.

+ Assists with coordinating activities with transition services provided by local educational agencies under IDEA.

+ Disseminates information and strategies to improve the transition to postsecondary activities of members of traditionally unserved and underserved populations.

Qualifications:

+ Bachelor's degree in social work, a human service-oriented field, or education.

+ Two years experience working with youth with disabilities.

+ Two years experience related to job coaching, training, or onboarding.

+ Valid teaching license issued by the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners preferred, but not required.

The successful candidate will exhibit:

+ Understanding of effects of the onset, progression, and expected duration of disability on individuals’ holistic functioning.

+ Understanding and knowledge of environmental, attitudinal, and individual barriers for people with disabilities.

+ Knowledge of rehabilitation service delivery systems, including housing, independent living, case management, public benefits programs, educational programs, and public/proprietary vocational rehabilitation programs.

+ Knowledge transferable skills, functional assessments, and work-related supports for achieving and maintaining meaningful employment for people with disabilities .

+ Strategies to analyze work activity and labor market data and trends to facilitate the match between an individual with a disability and targeted jobs.

+ Consultation and collaboration with employers regarding the legal rights and benefits of hiring individuals with disabilities, including Americans with Disabilities Act compliance, accommodations, universal design, and workplace disability prevention.

+ Strategies to promote self-advocacy skills of individuals with disabilities.

+ Career- and work-related assessments, including job analysis, worksite modification, transferable skills analysis, job readiness, and work hardening.

+ Evaluation and application of assistive technology with an emphasis on individualized assessment and planning.

+ Career development and employment models and strategies for achieving and maintaining meaningful employment for people with disabilities.

+ Creates a sense of belonging and welcoming environment for all students, families, and staff.

+ Attends work on a consistent and punctual basis.

Compensation:$24.50 per hourBenefits:

+ Health/Dental/Vision Insurance

+ Life Insurance

+ Long-Term Disability Insurance

+ Paid Time Off-Paid holidays (11), personal days (2), sick leave (10 days first year), 5 emergency days

+ IPERS Retirement

Closing Date:July 28, 2025Choosing the Ames Community School District isn't just about a job – it's about becoming part of a vibrant and close-knit community, nestled in the heart of Iowa. With its small-town charm and big-city amenities, Ames offers a unique blend of contentment and excitement. As a college town, opportunities to engage and get involved abound, whether it's through cultural events, educational pursuits, or community initiatives. At Ames, you're not just joining a workplace; you're becoming a valued member of a community driven by communication, collaboration, and a shared commitment to excellence. Come be a part of the Ames CSD, where both your professional and personal aspirations can thrive. Candidates, please follow the link to apply online: https://www.applitrack.com/amesk12/OnlineApp/JobPostings/View.asp?AppliTrackJobId=1501Ames CSD is an E-Verify employer. The Ames CSD is an EEO/AA employer.To learn more about the Ames Community School District, visit our websites:

+ District Website (http://www.ames.k12.ia.us)

+ Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/AmesCommunitySchoolDistrict/)

+ Twitter

+ YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/user/OfficialACSD)

+ Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/acsdnews/)

+ Amazing Magazine (http://www.ames.k12.ia.us/district/departments/school-community-media-relations/amazing-magazine/)