Join us in our mission to make a difference and shape a more inclusive future.
Job Title: Transition Specialist
Job Overview:
We are seeking a passionate Transition Specialist to join the Langan School, where you will play a key role in preparing students with disabilities for life beyond school. In this position, you will develop and oversee the Vocational Education and L.I.F.E. (Learning Independence through Functional Education) Skills program, helping students acquire essential work and life skills that foster independence and success. This role involves working closely with teachers, therapists, families, and community partners to support students in achieving their Individual Education Plan (IEP) goals.
Key Responsibilities:
Program Development: Design, implement, and evaluate the Vocational Education and Life Skills curriculum in alignment with NYS Education standards and student IEPs.
Student Transition Planning: Collaborate with students, families, and school staff to create transition plans that support long-term goals, including work placement and life skills development.
Work-Based Learning: Identify, coordinate, and supervise internal and external work placements (e.g., internships, job shadowing, youth employment) that provide students with real-world experience.
Coaching and Support: Provide ongoing guidance to students during their work/life skill experiences and offer classroom consultation to teachers and therapists regarding transition strategies.
Data Monitoring: Track and report on student progress, ensuring that the vocational and life skills program is effectively meeting educational and developmental goals.
Qualifications:
Education: Associate's degree required; Bachelor's degree preferred (additional $1.06/hour).
Certification: Active New York State Teaching Assistant or Teacher Certification required.
Experience: 3+ years of experience working in special education, particularly with students with moderate to severe disabilities. Experience in vocational education or life skills training is highly desirable.
Skills:
Knowledge of special education, vocational education, and life skills management.
Strong collaboration and communication skills for working with students, families, and interdisciplinary teams.
Ability to design and implement functional assessments and curriculum.
Proficiency in data collection, analysis, and reporting on student outcomes.
Why Join Us?
At Langan School, you'll have the chance to shape the future of students with disabilities, guiding them toward independence and success. We offer a supportive work environment, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to make a lasting impact in students' lives.
At The Center for Disability Services, we don’t just accept difference –we celebrate it, support it, and thrive on it for the benefit of our employees and the people we support. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any protected class of job applicant or employee in our employment practices.
Compensation Range:
$23.38 - $25.66For over 75 years, the Center for Disability Services has been one of upstate New York’s largest providers of programs and services for individuals who have disabilities.
With more than 80 locations throughout 15 counties, we annually provide programs and services to over 12,000 individuals, ranging from infants to senior citizens, and their families. We provide services for over 300 different diagnoses of disabilities included Cerebral Palsy, developmental disabilities, Multiple Sclerosis, Autism Spectrum disorders, epilepsy, spina bifida, TBI and Down syndrome.
Our wide range of services under a single umbrella allows us to provide a seamless continuum of care as the people we support age or as their needs change. From intensive medical care to residential services, to dental care to mental health, the individuals we support can have it all managed through the Center.
The Center for Disability Services, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization provides additional services through the Down Syndrome Aim High Resource Center, and our affiliates: Prospect Center in Queensbury and St. Margaret’s Center in Albany. We are committed to the well being of the people we support, while providing opportunities which lead to more independent lifestyles and productive, happier lives. For a weekend, a week, or a lifetime, in your home or ours, the Center for Disability Services is here for you and your family.