Community Support Specialist The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Community Support Specialist. Position Details Location Gulf Park 730 East Beach Boulevard Long Beach, Mississippi, 39560 United States Division Institute for Disability Study Position Type Staff Employment Status Part Time Grant Funded Yes Pay Grade N04 Posting Close Date Open until filled Job Summary This position is a non-benefited part-time position receiving 8-10 hours of work each week. Community Support Specialists provide individualized, skill development training to persons with brain or head injury, neurological illness, or cognitive impairment in their own environment as well as volunteer environment. Services may include: assist to develop schedules, develop & modify compensation strategies, and assist with problem solving issues related to everyday life. Areas may include: development/implementation of strategies to address household management, meal preparation, budgeting, vocational/volunteer exploration, cognitive skill training, etc. Primary Duties and Responsibilities + Assists with development of daily activities schedules to include meal planning, meal preparation, exercise, grocery shopping, volunteering, recreation, ect. + Develop and modify compensation strategies. + Assists with developing problem solving strategies for the client to use to address obstacles and challenges associated with daily activities. + Assists with the development and implementation of strategies to address household management, meal planning and preparation, budgeting, vocation/volunteer exploration, and cognitive skill training. + Assists with transportation to and from appointments and outings. + Performs other duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications Associate’s degree from an accredited college or university and six months of related experience in providing direct support services to individuals with traumatic brain injuries. Related experience on a year-for-year basis may be substituted for required education. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities + Skill in talking to others to convey information effectively. + Ability to accurately prepare and maintain records, files, and reports. + Ability to communicate effectively in both oral and written form. + Ability to maintain effective interpersonal relationships. + Ability to understand and follow instructions. + Ability to prepare concise reports. + Ability to obtain a driver’s license prior to employment. About The University of Southern Mississippi Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions. Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others. We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We’re developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu. As an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity employer/Americans with Disabilities Act institution, The University of Southern Mississippi encourages minorities, women, veterans and persons with disabilities to apply.