Outreach Specialist

The Outreach Specialist will serve as a key ambassador for California's Deaf and Disabled Telecommunications Program (DDTP), engaging with community members, service providers, and partner organizations to raise awareness about telecommunication access and assistive technology for individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing, deaf-blind, or disabled. Under the guidance of the Outreach Director, the Outreach Specialist will be responsible for building relationships, delivering presentations, and providing technical assistance to ensure that these communities have access to telecommunications services and equipment.

 Please note that candidates must be located in the State of California. Furthermore, CSD is not providing relocation assistance for this position at this time. 

Essential Functions

• Conduct outreach by attending community events, cold calling, and conducting presentations to increase awareness about DDTP services.
• Develop relationships with service providers, partner organizations, and community groups to promote the program and foster collaboration.
• Provide in-person, remote (videophone, messaging, text), and on-site consultations to consumers, ensuring their telecommunications needs are met.
• Build a strong network by identifying and securing new resources and connections to enhance the visibility of DDTP within the community.
• Collaborate with community-based organizations to deliver training and technical assistance regarding the equipment and services offered by DDTP.
• Deliver presentations on telecommunications equipment, relay services, and application processes to both service providers and consumers.
• Educate communities about accessibility options, such as TTYs, amplified phones, CapTel, alerting signalers, and phone features for individuals with visual or speech impairments.
• Provide one-on-one training and technical support to individuals on how to use the equipment available through DDTP.
• Help consumers complete the CTAP (California Telephone Access Program) application process and ensure they have access to the services they need.
• Accurately enter consumer data and track outreach activities to ensure all required reports and documentation are completed in compliance with state regulations.
• Complete other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

To perform the essential functions of this position successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies: 

• Proven ability to build and manage relationships with community-based organizations (CBOs), disability advocacy groups, and other relevant stakeholders.
• Familiarity with resources and services for the deaf, deaf-blind, and hard of hearing populations at the local, state, and national levels.
• Demonstrated experience in leading outreach teams and managing geographically dispersed, public-facing workforces.
• Strong organizational, strategic, and analytical skills to create effective outreach strategies that align with program goals.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present to executive audiences and stakeholders.
• Creative problem-solving abilities and the capacity to think strategically about outreach opportunities, partnerships, and innovations.

• Residency Requirement: Candidates for this role must live and work in California. 
• Bachelor’s degree in marketing, Business Administration, Communications, or related field; or equivalent professional experience (preferred).
• At least one (1) year of experience engaging in outreach activities aimed at communities of persons with disabilities.
• At least one (1) year of experience working with deaf, hard of hearing, deaf-blind, or disabled customers in outreach, marketing or communication roles.
• At least one (1) year of professional experience in a customer service environment. 
• Sales or teaching experience is a plus. 
• Experience working with Community-Based Organizations to enhance outreach efforts and build strong partnerships that support individuals with disabilities.
• Ability to communicate effectively using American Sign Language (Preferred).