• Employment Status: 0.6 FTE for a fixed period concluding 30 June 2025, with an expected extension to 30 June 2026.
• Pay rate: $45 - $50/hour, plus superannuation depending on experience

Position Description

We are seeking a proactive Employment Connector based in Hobart to support the delivery of our Employment Connections service in Tasmania.

The Employment Connector will support individuals with Down syndrome to find and transition into suitable open employment opportunities. This role involves working closely with job seekers, employers, and support networks to ensure successful job placement and workplace inclusion.

The Employment Connector will provide tailored guidance, job readiness support, and ongoing assistance to both employees and employers to foster sustainable employment outcomes.

Position Responsibilities

• Assist individuals with Down syndrome in identifying their employment goals, skills, and interests.
• Provide support in job searching, resume preparation, interview skills, and job applications.
• Delivery the Work Readiness training, developed by Down Syndrome Australia.
• Establish and maintain relationships with employers to create suitable employment opportunities.
• Support individuals during the onboarding process and provide on-the-job coaching as needed.
• Work collaboratively with families, employers, support workers, schools, ADEs and service providers to ensure a smooth transition into employment.
• Deliver training and resources to employers on how to best support employees with Down syndrome.
• Monitor job placements and provide ongoing support to ensure job retention and career development.
• Maintain accurate records and report on employment outcomes and program effectiveness, including reporting for grant acquittals.

Organisational Background

Down Syndrome Australia was established in 2011 as the peak body for people with Down syndrome in Australia. Our purpose is to influence social and policy change and provide a national profile and voice for people living with Down syndrome. Our work is rights-based and informed by the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

. We work together with our members, partners and with other stakeholders to improve the lives of people with Down syndrome and their families across our communities. People with Down syndrome are involved in every part of the organisation including governance. Our vision is an inclusive society where people with Down syndrome have full participation and equal enjoyment of all human rights.

This position reports to the Project Manager of the Employment Connections Project of Down Syndrome Australia.

Selection Criteria - Skills, Knowledge and Experience

Essential

• Relevant qualification and/or experience in disability support, employment services, community services, or a related field.
• Experience working with people with disability, particularly individuals with Down syndrome.
• Knowledge of inclusive employment practices and workplace adjustments.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills to engage with job seekers, employers, and stakeholders.
• Ability to provide job coaching and develop strategies for workplace success.
• Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple job seekers effectively.
• Commitment to promoting workplace diversity and inclusion.
• Computer literacy using MS Word, Outlook, Excel, SharePoint.

This role is ideal for someone passionate about creating meaningful employment opportunities and supporting people with Down syndrome to thrive in the workforce.

Work Environment

The Down Syndrome Australia staff work as a virtual team. This position may be based in an office or home environment. The nature of this role and its responsibilities deems that occasionally some work will be required outside normal business hours and some travel will be required.

Acceptance of the position involves a willingness to work within the philosophies and policy directions of Down Syndrome Australia. The successful applicant will be required to undergo satisfactory preemployment checks including professional referees, completion of a satisfactory police records check and working with children check. The successful applicant will initially be employed for a probationary period of three months.

Down Syndrome Australia is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from culturally and linguistically diverse people, women, members of the LGBTIQ+ community, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, and people with a disability.