ABOUT WORK FIRST

Work First is a unique suite of person-centred disability employment services that support companies and individuals to make inclusive employment possible for people with a disability. Borne out of years of research and practice evidence and driven by the need to improve disability employment outcomes, Work First works with individuals and companies to make employment and careers possible. Our services are available to companies through the Work First Corporate program and to individuals who are self-managed clients of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

Work First is the disability employment and mental health service of the Centre for Disability Employment Research and Practice. It is where CDERP illustrates how theory can become practice in the delivery of innovative services to individuals and businesses.

ABOUT THE ROLE

We’re looking for someone with a passion for disability employment. The role won’t suit someone looking for a 9-5 lifestyle, because our program is very much client-driven. It’s not a traditional employment service role, it’s powered by Discovery, fueled by passion, and built on a growing evidence base that informs practice. This is a role for someone committed to delivering Customised Employment with fidelity to the model, not simply adopt the name.

Working with a small caseload of participants, Work First Employment Specialists evaluate the skills and talents of individuals, then develop and coordinate opportunities with businesses in the local community. Successful employment is when both the individual served and the business’s needs match – true mutuality. Employment Consultants collaborate with a community network to train effective communication techniques, accommodations, and how to develop natural supports in the workplace.

Effective Employment Consultants maintain the greatest level of independence and enjoy an ever-changing environment. They communicate with their teams and other stakeholders appropriately. They evaluate the needs of the people served through timely assessment, communication, and observation, and modify their plans through consideration of the person’s response, all underpinned by Discovery with fidelity to the model.

Employment Consultants are also comfortable with diversity, compassionate, and exceptional listeners. Their attention to detail, self-confidence, and a good sense of humor is critical to success.

At Work First it’s about more than a job, it’s about the whole person.

ABOUT YOU

• Passionate with a belief that anyone can work
• Confident, relaxed and have great conversational skills
• A great listener with an eye for detail (more detective and less interrogator)
• Have a valid driver’s licence
• A reliable fully insured vehicle
• Able to advocate on behalf of our clients
• High level of computer literacy
• Sound organisational skills
• The ability to work autonomously
• Ability to adapt to change
• Like to work outdoors – most of our work is in the field
• A degree in Allied Health or a related science area is preferable.

WHAT’S ON OFFER

• Small caseloads
• Time to invest in the client and family
• Access to world-class training and development via CDERP College
• Generous leave entitlements
• Access to EAP – no cost
• Opportunities for growth and development internally
• Flexible work arrangements

LOCATION

This role would suit someone living in the eastern suburbs, south-eastern or outer east of Melbourne, as the person we employ will work primarily with clients in this region.

If you are looking for part-time work, then we are open to employing two part-time employees for one full-time role.

COVID INFORMATION

We are based in North Melbourne, however, we don’t expect staff to attend our offices in any real form in the current Covid reality. Until we have some clarity regarding a post-Covid normal, our work setting will be fluid, that said we’ve become masters of Zoom and Microsoft Teams over the past year. We expect to open an office in the outer east later this year.