Employment First Program Manager, Family and Community Medicine

The Sonoran Center for Excellence in Disabilities at the University of Arizona is seeking a Program Manager to advance and lead statewide efforts focused on Employment First and systems change. The successful candidate will join a dynamic team of trainers, researchers, educators, practitioners, and scholars focused on inclusion for people with disabilities.

The position will be responsible for leading state and federal initiatives, engaging community partners; conducting collaborative problem-solving; designing and implementing training, technical assistance, service delivery practices, resources, and policy responses; leading new initiatives and pilot activities; contributing to data-driven decision-making, and informing state and national policy; and supporting strategic planning and development regarding current and emerging issues across Sonoran Center programs.

Outstanding UA benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; UA/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to UA recreation and cultural activities; and more!

The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please click here.

Leadership & Collaboration:

• Lead statewide leadership efforts for Employment First initiative and liaise with leadership of state agencies, provider organizations, emoployers and disability community.
• Engage creative partnerships in strategic action and problem-solving to address current employment issues in the disability community.
• Develop and lead strategic action and innovative solutions focused on addressing the employment challenges experienced by people with disabilities and the agencies who provide services
• Conceptualize, design, and implement programming related to employment focused on innovation, model development, and promising interventions and practices, and inform policy and practice decision-making and outcomes.
• Identify opportunities and lead pilot initiatives, leverage external dollars, plans budgets, and develop grants and contracts in alignment with and support Employment First implementation
• Engage in strategic planning and complete activities in support of the Sonoran Center five-year workplan.

Administrative & Project Management:

• Monitor grants and contracts associated with Employment First initiatives.
• Oversee budgets, staff supervision, reporting, and grant/contract deliverables of successfully funded projects.
• Training & Technical Assistance:
• Develop and implement community education and professional development strategy for Employment First practices and principles.
• Provide technical assistance related to identified Employment First Initiatives, supporting stakeholders in understanding and applying best practices.
• Respond to requests for technical assistance and compile actionable reports to guide agency decision-making and policy development.
• Assist state agencies with professional development, resources, and systems change coordinating across Sonoran Center resources.

Outreach & Information Dissemination:

• Lead and oversee resource development of online and written products, presentation, and resources for diverse audiences.
• Guide development of products and resources, disseminate information, and enhance access to employment materials using multiple formats and delivery methods.
• Promote and amplify expectation for work for all and benefits of inclusive employment.
  Oversee consistent messaging and online presence of Employment First in alignment with Sonoran Center and UofA branding.

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent advanced learning attained through professional level experience required.
• Minimum of 8 years of relevant work experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.

• Experience working with individuals with disabilities preferably in a community vocational or employment setting.

• Knowledge of instructional practices to teach, support, and accommodate individuals with a variety of disabilities.

• Knowledge and experience with disability agencies, employment system services and supports, and Employment First

• Knowledge and experience with supported and customized employment, and Arizona and National policy initiatives around youth services, education, vocational rehabilitation and employment.

• Experience in developing, implementing and evaluating programs.

• Demonstrated track record of development, innovation and implementation of employment programs

• Experience in leading groups, task forces, or coalitions.

• Knowledge and experience with employment, community living, service coordination, and person-centered approaches for people with disabilities.