Supported Employment & Job Coaching: Helping Individuals with Disabilities Succeed at Work

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Supported employment provides personalized services to help individuals with autism or intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) find and maintain meaningful, competitive jobs in the community. Services are tailored to the person’s needs, strengths, and goals—often with the help of a job coach and other support staff.

What Is Job Coaching?

Job coaching is one-on-one support provided by trained professionals to help individuals:

• Learn job tasks step-by-step

• Understand workplace expectations

• Improve communication and social skills

• Build confidence and independence

Job coaches work directly at the job site and may gradually “fade” support as the employee becomes more independent.

What Services Are Included in Supported Employment?

Discovery Process

A personalized approach that helps identify:

• Strengths and interests

• Ideal work environments

• Support needs
  This helps guide job selection and ensures the right fit between the person and the role.

Job Development

Support in:

• Finding jobs that match a person's skills and interests

• Writing resumes and preparing for interviews

• Communicating with employers and securing placements

Community-Based Work Experiences

Real-world job trials and internships that:

• Help individuals explore careers

• Build practical skills

• Provide experience in actual workplaces

Vocational Training

Structured programs that:

• Teach specific job-related skills

• Prepare individuals for employment

• Can include classroom learning, hands-on training, or certifications

Transition Services

For students with disabilities moving from school to adult life, including:

• Career planning

• Work experiences while still in school

• Support connecting to adult services or post-secondary education

Follow-Along Support

After starting a job, individuals may receive ongoing help such as:

• On-the-job check-ins

• Problem-solving support

• Help adapting to new tasks or changes at work

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Maintaining Long-Term Employment

Employment success doesn’t end at hire—it’s supported through:

• Check-ins and coaching to resolve issues early

• Continuous communication with the individual, employer, and support team

• Flexible supports that adapt as the job or person’s needs change