Job Description:

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Position Summary:
Under basic supervision, the Transition Specialist assists students ages 14-21 with job exploration and work-based learning experiences. The Transition Specialist will lead systems that provide equitable opportunities and supports to learners with special needs in the five core areas of Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS): post-secondary education, job exploration, self-advocacy training, workplace readiness and work experience to successfully transition to post-secondary programs and/or competitive integrated employment.

Essential Functions:
Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following representative duties, knowledge, and skills. This list is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY, and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by incumbents of this class. Employees are required to be in attendance and prepared to begin work at their assigned work location on the specified days and hours. Factors such as regular attendance at the job are not routinely listed in job descriptions, but are an essential function. Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:

Job Exploration:
Partner with students ages 14-21 to complete interest and ability inventories.
Assist students with job exploration through class selection and individualized research.
Organize and facilitate career fairs and guest speakers to aid in job exploration
Stay current with digital career resources and websites.
Work-Based Learning Experiences

Facilitate student learning about various types of employment, volunteer, and job opportunities.
Comprehensive Transition or Postsecondary Education Programs

Coach students on applying for scholarships.
Organize presentations by postsecondary education Disability Support Professionals.
Arrange college campus visits and conduct college preparation seminars.
Familiarize students with college entrance requirements and preparation for entrance testing.
Support and coach students in transitioning and preparing for college.
Workplace Readiness Training

Teach methods of transportation and how to access them.
Support students in obtaining a driver’s license, if appropriate.
Teach resume writing and interviewing skills.
Assist students in completing job applications, resumes, and cover letters.
Teach and assist with budgeting and personal finance.
Provide training in basic computer skills.
Conduct independent living skills training/labs.
Tech and Support Student Self-Advocacy

Instruct students on their rights as individuals with disabilities.
Support students in understanding their personal disabilities, how they impact them, and how to discuss them.
Facilitate awareness of helpful accommodations.
Educate students on self-determination and self-disclosure options.
Education, Training and Experience Guidelines:

Bachelor’s degree is preferred but not required.

Knowledge of:
MPS policies and procedures.
Safety rules and regulations.
Understanding of the needs of students with disabilities.
Postsecondary educational programs and transition planning.
Personal computers, and specialized software applications for educational systems.
Record keeping and file maintenance principles and procedures.
Track and report monthly hours for the Pre-ETS Grant.
 
Skill in:
Following verbal and written instructions and procedures, and following safety standards.
Establishing and maintaining effective working relations with co-workers.
Communicating effectively verbally and in writing.
Ability to perform multiple tasks and update skills to meet changing job conditions.
Proficiency in using digital resources for job exploration and career planning.
 
License and Certification Requirements
A valid North Dakota State Driver’s License is required. 

Physical Demands and Working Environment
Work environment: moderate physical requirements, frequent lifting and moving materials, and equipment.

Employment requires satisfactory completion of the interview process and a verifiable record of satisfactory performance in previous employment.

A state and federal background check will be conducted on the final candidate.

Position Type: Full-Time

Job Requirements
Citizenship, residency or work visa required

Salary: $19.28 - $22.08 per hour (salary based on school year 2024-2025 Mandan Public School District rates; school year 2025-2026 rates are yet to be determined).

Application Procedures
Please attach a resume to your electronic application. All application materials must be received by 11:59 pm on the closing date. The application form and resume should demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities that are needed to meet the minimum qualifications for this position. Applications should include information that directly addresses how the applicant meets the minimum qualifications and a summary of work. It is very important to be thorough and detailed on all your application materials.

Contact Information
Julie Ketterling, Director of Special Education
BRAVE CENTER
Phone: 701-751-6500
Email: Julie.Ketterling@msd1.org