Job Description

The Transition & Career Studies (TCS) course of study is a 4-year residential college-based certificate program (non-degree bearing) for matriculated students with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities aged 18-25 years.  The program was funded in October 2020 by a grant from the U.S. Department of Education and is currently under development, with the first cohort of students to be admitted in fall 2021.  This post-secondary inclusive higher education program is designed to prepare students for adult life through academic instruction in the liberal arts and areas of interest; career discovery/readiness; and age-appropriate peer interaction and socialization.  The foundational core beliefs of this program are rooted in the benefits of inclusivity and high expectations.  The value of continued academic development is based on the idea that access to liberal learning promotes the development of critical thinking, self-reflection, and an understanding of the inter-relatedness required for civic responsibility.  In addition, the residential program yields the positive effects of semi-independent living with same-age peers. 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• In coordination with the Program Faculty Director and associated GCU staff,  design and implement student recruitment activities (i.e., orientations, open houses, campus tours, parent meetings, presentations to community professionals). 
• In coordination with GCU Admissions office, oversee the TCS application process including the management of student/family interviews.  
• In collaboration with the Program Faculty Director, create and maintain a schedule for program implementation.
• Assist with the hiring, training, scheduling  and evaluation of  TCS staff and adjunct faculty and maintain budgetary records for the program
• Provide recruitment, training  and support of TCS peer-mentors and student interns.
• Manage and supervise the daily TCS operations for staff, students and mentors.
• Facilitate the development of all program-related materials reflecting program operations, and related program-specific activities.  
• In collaboration with the Program Faculty Director and other related GCU faculty and staff, manage the development  of  TCS policies and procedures across all program areas (i.e., academics, student conduct, student life). 
• Conduct and facilitate TCS program meetings, advisory meetings and community partnerships  meetings with relevant community agencies. 
• Develop and implement a communication plan with students and families in regards to addressing challenges and needed interventions.
• Develop on-line materials, manage and maintain the TCS webpage, in collaboration with the GCU Webmaster.
• Maintain student records, student evaluations, and course content files
• Perform other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Graduate level degree in a related field of education or social science; 
• Experience working with young adults and/or adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities;
• Some level of experience in educational/vocational curriculum and program development 
• Familiarity with services and support of individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities including autism spectrum disorder;
• Familiarity with college/university systems of operations; 
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills;
• Some level of supervisory/managerial experience;
• Advanced organizational skills and executive functioning; and
• Willingness to commit to a flexible schedule, including weekends on occasion.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Knowledge and skills in special education practices
• Experience working in the field of post-secondary education
• Training/experience in job development, supported work, customized employment
• Knowledge of State and National systems that support individuals with intellectual disabilties; and their resources
• Grant-writing experience
• Knowledge and skills in positive behavior supports