What Is a Job Coach? And Who Might Hire One

A job coach supports people with disabilities as they prepare to enter the workforce. As a job coach, you may work with a person individually or in a group setting, either in or out of the workplace, as they build the skills and habits necessary for success in a specific job function.

Explore more details about a job coach’s responsibilities, skills, and qualifications as well as discover some guidance on where to find a job coach.

Job coach vs career coach vs career counsellor

If a job coach doesn’t sound right for you, you may be interested in finding a career coach or career counsellor.

A career coach supports individuals as they navigate their career path, offering guidance through job changes, the application process, or settling into a new role. A career counsellor may have a background in psychology or human development and supports individuals as they assess their career goals and desires.

What does a job coach do?

Ultimately, a job coach aims to enable and empower people to fulfil their job function without persistent one-on-one assistance. Some key responsibilities of a job coach include:

• Connecting an individual’s capabilities and interests to potential jobs within their community

• Coordinating with employers to secure employment and negotiate customised job responsibilities on behalf of the individual

• Facilitating job trainings for tasks specific to the individual’s job function

• Working with the individual as they adjust to their new role

• Advocating for the individual throughout their employment period

Job coach qualifications

Although they work closely with a wide range of personality types and job functions, job coaches often don’t require extensive qualifications. Typically, a job coach needs strong interpersonal skills, and they’ll receive role-specific training upon their hiring.

Job coaches will often find employment with government agencies or help networks dedicated to serving people with disabilities. Some employers may look for job coaches with experience working with people with specific disabilities, knowledge of government support services, and established connections with local businesses. Specific requirements will vary depending on the employer’s needs.   

Job coach vs occupational therapist

While a job coach helps individuals prepare for a specific job, an occupational therapist treats patients with injuries, illnesses, or disabilities as they recover or develop the physical ability to accomplish daily tasks. Occupational therapists typically need a bachelor’s degree in occupational therapy, as well as an internship and licence issued by the Rehabilitation Council of India in order to practise.

How to find a job coach

Many people will begin their search for a job coach by first contacting the Skill Council for Persons with Disability (SCPwD). The SCPwD specialises in helping individuals find more specialized services.

If you already work with a non-profit organisation for other services, it may also be able to provide job-specific support or refer you to an organisation that can.

Explore job coaching and career development on Coursera

If you are interested in exploring your own career success potential or helping others discover theirs, consider the Career Success Specialization from the University of California, Irvine’s Division of Continuing Education, available on Coursera. Work through each online course at your own pace from anywhere with an internet connection.