Job Description

Transition Specialist

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Transition Specialist.

Position Details

Location Hattiesburg



118 College Drive

Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39406-0001

United States


Division Institute for Disability Study


Position Type Staff


Employment Status Part Time


Grant Funded Yes


Pay Grade



Posting Close Date Five Days After Posted

Special Instructions to Applicants

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).

Job Summary

Assist IDS administration with transition to adulthood (employment, volunteerism, service, independent living, and post-secondary education) projects including program development, program implementation, individualized person-centered plan development, service coordination/case management, training, internship monitoring, data input, technical assistance and other activities related to grant reporting, compliance and review.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

Coordinates with community agencies, community organizations, families, businesses, and industries, to provide support services for individuals with disabilities.

Provides one-on-one service coordination/case management, information and referrals.

Develops and implements intake forms, needs assessment tools and individual support plans.

Assists individuals with disabilities with advocacy and self-sufficiency development.

Develops, promotes, and monitors community-based employment and other learning internship opportunities. Researches, develops, and provides transition to adulthood best practice training to youth and young adults with disabilities, families, providers and the business community/employers.

Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Master's degree or equivalent from an accredited college or university in Social Work, Public Health, Psychology, Child and Family Sciences, Counseling and related fields or bachelor's degree in Social Work Public Health, Psychology, Child and Family Sciences, Counseling and related fields with one to three years related experience and/or training beyond a bachelor's degree including developing and implementing individualized transition support plans and conducting individualized transition assessments of youth and young adults with disabilities and their families.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Knowledge of transition to adulthood services and supports Knowledge of disability, services and supports Skill in managing one's own time and the time of others Skill in completing assignments accurately and with attention to detail Skill in developing and implementing transition to adulthood plans of care Ability to travel or complete overnight stays as needed Ability to analyze and prepare documents, reports, and correspondence Ability to communicate and interact effectively with all groups of people Ability to demonstrate sensitivity, respect, and discretion when dealing with confidential matters.

Preferred Qualifications

Social work licensure or case management certification

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.



The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.