Employment Specialist

Employment SpecialistThe Employment Specialist provides vocational assessment, job development, job placement, and ongoing employment support services to individuals receiving services. This position assists individuals in identifying career goals, obtaining competitive integrated employment, and achieving long-term job success.The Employment Specialist supports individuals in overcoming barriers to employment through person-centered planning, advocacy, and skill development. All services are provided in a manner that promotes independence, community inclusion, meaningful participation, and individual recovery.Employment ServicesProvide vocational assessment, job development, job placement, and job coaching services to program participants.Assist individuals in identifying employment interests, strengths, skills, and career goals.Develop and maintain relationships with local employers and community businesses to identify employment opportunities.Support individuals in obtaining and maintaining competitive integrated employment.Provide individualized job coaching and workplace support based on each person's unique needs.Assist individuals in developing workplace skills, appropriate work behaviors, and self-advocacy skills.Identify employment barriers and implement strategies to help individuals achieve successful employment outcomes.Support individuals pursuing self-employment opportunities as well as traditional employment options.Individual Support PlanningParticipate in the development, implementation, and review of Individual Support Plans (ISPs).Provide recommendations regarding employment goals and support needs.Assist individuals in achieving employment-related goals identified in their ISP.Monitor progress and document service outcomes in accordance with program requirements.Advocacy and Community EngagementAdvocate for individuals seeking employment opportunities and workplace accommodations.Educate employers regarding supported employment services and best practices.Connect individuals with community resources that support employment success.Promote community inclusion, independence, and meaningful participation.Documentation and Administrative ResponsibilitiesComplete documentation accurately and within required timeframes.Maintain case records in accordance with organizational, regulatory, and funding requirements.Submit reports, service notes, and other required documentation in a timely manner.Participate in team meetings, supervision, training, and quality improvement activities.Provide emergency on-call coverage on a rotational basis, as assigned.Job QualificationsEducationBachelor's degree required in Human Services, Rehabilitation, Vocational Services, Psychology, Social Work, Special Education, Health Services, or a related field.ExperienceMinimum of two (2) years of experience providing vocational, employment, or rehabilitation services to individuals with behavioral health or intellectual and developmental disability (IDD) populations.Experience with person-centered planning, job development, and supported employment preferred.Licensure and TransportationValid driver's license required.Reliable transportation and the ability to travel throughout the service area as needed.Core CompetenciesPerson-Centered Service DeliveryDemonstrates commitment to individual choice, independence, and self-determination.Supports individuals in achieving meaningful employment goals.CommunicationEffectively communicates with individuals, families, employers, coworkers, and community partners.Demonstrates active listening and professional written communication skills.Employment DevelopmentBuilds and maintains relationships with employers and community businesses.Demonstrates knowledge of supported employment principles and job coaching techniques.AdvocacyPromotes equal employment opportunities and workplace inclusion.Assists individuals in accessing resources and overcoming barriers to employment.CollaborationWorks effectively as a member of an interdisciplinary team.Maintains positive relationships with individuals served, coworkers, and community stakeholders.Organization and Time ManagementManages multiple priorities while meeting deadlines.Completes documentation accurately and timely.Professionalism and EthicsMaintains confidentiality and professional boundaries.Demonstrates integrity, accountability, and respect in all interactions.TechnologyProficient in Microsoft Office applications, electronic documentation systems, email, and internet-based applications.Physical Requirements and Working ConditionsGeneral RequirementsMaintain compliance with OSHA regulations and organizational safety standards.Adhere to all Fire Safety, HIPAA, Human Resources, and organizational policies and procedures.Attend all required trainings, meetings, and certifications.Maintain professional conduct and sound judgment at all times.Physical DemandsAbility to frequently exert up to 20 pounds of force and occasionally lift, carry, push, or pull materials as needed.Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, reach, and travel between community locations.Ability to operate a motor vehicle safely.Work EnvironmentWork is performed in office, community, employment, and training settings.Environment includes modern office facilities and community-based locations.May require travel to multiple sites throughout the service area.Equipment and TechnologyTelephone (cellular and multi-line systems)Computer and related peripheralsCopier, scanner, and other standard office equipmentMicrosoft Office and agency software applicationsSafety and Compliance KnowledgeBloodborne PathogensRight-to-Know RegulationsHIPAA Confidentiality RequirementsSecurity ProceduresFire and Safety ProtocolsSchedule FlexibilityWork schedules are subject to change based on business and program needs. Flexibility to work varying hours, evenings, weekends, holidays, and multiple locations may be required.