In CESP, how is competitive employment defined?

• A. Work with wages and benefits comparable to non-disabled workers in similar roles, with job duties defined by employer.
• B. Any paid job regardless of wages.
• C. Volunteer positions.
• D. Government-funded positions only.

Answer: (A)

Competitive employment in CESP means a job in the open labor market where the worker earns wages and benefits comparable to those paid to workers without disabilities doing similar work, and the job duties are defined by the employer. This focus on market-rate compensation and employer-defined responsibilities ensures the position aligns with typical employment outcomes rather than sheltered, volunteer, or subsidized roles. The other options don’t fit because they either don’t require market-rate wages/benefits, describe unpaid or volunteer work, or limit to government-funded positions.