Employment Specialist

Employment SpecialistStarting Rate: $18.50/hourSchedule: Monday through Friday 8am- 4pmAs an Employment Specialist, you'll help individuals with disabilities build confidence, develop job skills, and achieve meaningful employment goals. Through one-on-one and group support, you'll guide participants through career exploration, job preparation, and workplace success.This is a hands-on, people-focused role where you'll make a real impact while gaining valuable experience in human services, employment support, and mental health in a mission-driven environment.At Advocates, we provide comprehensive services for people facing developmental, mental health, or other life challenges.We're a nonprofit, mission-driven organization with a person-centered approach, empowering the individuals we support to make choices, build independence, and live full, meaningful lives. Our work is rooted in respect, compassion, and inclusion, and we envision a world where individual differences are appreciated and celebrated.At Advocates, we value the ideas, experiences, and contributions of employees and are committed to fostering a supportive, welcoming culture where everyone can grow and thrive.Minimum Education RequiredHigh School Diploma/GEDResponsibilitiesProvide individualized and group support focused on job readiness and employment skillsAssist individuals in identifying career goals and developing person-centered employment plansSupport individuals in accessing and navigating community resources and job opportunitiesImplement teaching strategies aligned with Individual Support Plans (ISPs) and behavior plansPromote independence, informed decision-making, and appropriate risk-takingMaintain respectful, professional communication with individuals, families, team members, and community partnersComplete timely and accurate documentationMaintain certifications including First Aid, CPR, Safety Care, and HR/DPPCEnsure compliance with agency policies, procedures, and confidentiality standardsPromote and uphold human rights, privacy, and dignity of all individuals servedQualificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent requiredValid driver's license and reliable transportation preferredExperience in human services, employment services, or working with individuals with disabilities preferredStrong communication and interpersonal skillsAbility to work independently and as part of a teamBasic computer skills requiredPhysical Demands:Full upper extremity range of motionFull lower extremity range of motionMust be able to lift furniture and/or objects/persons weighing over 50 lbs.Physical Activity:Continuous: CommunicationFrequent: Standing, sitting, walkingOccasional: Reaching with hands and arms, stooping and crouchingAdvocates is committed to cultivating a diverse and welcoming community where everyone feels respected and valued. Advocates fosters a culture of inclusion that celebrates and promotes diversity along multiple dimensions, including race, ethnicity, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, partnered status, age, national origin, socioeconomic status, religion, ability, culture, and experience.We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants. If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application, interview or hiring process, please contact Human Resources.