Job Coach
A Job Coach is a person who is called in to the job site when an employee with a health condition that substantially limits a major life activity is new to a job and has a history of difficulty learning jobs, or is currently experiencing problems with daily job tasks and functions. The philosophy behind the Job Coach is a one-on-one approach to determine how the employee learns best and a formulation of a training plan to that end. By getting to know the employee, determining what current barriers impact the employee's job performance, what past issues may be part of the lack of success, or what strategies have so far been unsuccessful, the better approach can be established.
When an employee is experiencing difficulties, the Job Coach is told what problems the employee is having with the job tasks and what performance expectations are not being met. The Job Coach accompanies the employee on the job, learns the job and offers a variety of different approaches in performing the essential functions of the job. The Job Coach assesses the employee’s skills, how the employee best learns and completes a comprehensive review of the essential and marginal functions of the job. In many cases the Job Coach designs or redesigns the approach the employee takes to getting the job done. To work most effectively with the employee the Job Coach takes on one or more of the roles listed.
| Trainer | Problem Solver | Co-worker | Observer |
| Teacher | Advocate | Mentor | Leader |
| Friend | Facilitator | Supervisor Assistant | Evaluator |
In formulating the assessment plan, the Job Coach looks at the layout and physical design of the work area. The Job Coach takes into account the organizational structure of the unit, identifies the supervisors and who the coworkers are and support they may or may not offer. The Job Coach after a detailed analysis of the above, formulates along with the needs of the employee and with the supervisor an achievable training plan that is mutually agreeable to both. The employee establishes a time frame to train, learn and demonstrate retention of the job duties. The Job Coach evaluates progress and the plan is reworked using different training strategies when necessary until the employee successfully learns the job.
Employee's Role
The employee's responsibility when working with a Job Coach is to cooperate, be receptive and open to the help given, give honest feedback to the Job Coach and follow through on agreed upon procedures.
Supervisor's Role
The supervisor's responsibility is to provide a friendly, cooperative, supportive atmosphere where the coach and the employee can work together. The supervisor also must provide feedback to the Job Coach on quality of work produced and be available to answer questions.
Faculty and Staff Disability Services Role
Faculty and Staff Disability Services obtains the necessary Job Coach based on identified employer and employee needs. If the employee is eligible and approved for services either through Vocational Rehabilitation or other Human Services agency Job Coaches will be used at typically no cost to the University. If the employee is not eligible for supported services or the job difficulties are of immediate concern, Faculty and Staff Disability Services may have alternative funding to pay for Job Coaches. This funding mechanism enables a Job Coach to be in place as soon as availability and scheduling permits.