Employment Specialist (Part-time)

Employment SpecialistThe Employment Specialist provides comprehensive vocational support to young adults through employer engagement, job development, career coaching, and workplace retention strategies. This position facilitates individualized employment and career readiness services while fostering social, emotional, and independent living skills to enhance youth employment outcomes.Duties/Responsibilities:Build and maintain a network of employer partnerships and internship sites.Identify and assess local labor markets, contacting at least three new employers per quarter.Promote benefits of hiring youth with mental health or physical challenges, including tax incentives.Coordinate union apprenticeships, internships, and entrepreneurial opportunities.Maintain a job bank with hiring events, fairs, and employment leads.Conduct assessments and match youth to appropriate employment based on skills and interests.Provide job coaching, workplace shadowing, and retention strategies.Offer support for on-the-job accommodations and disclosure planning.Facilitate career development workshops and "Career Club" sessions.Guide financial literacy, benefits planning, and soft skills training.Maintain accurate and timely case records, vocational plans, progress notes, and reports.Enter all activities and youth progress into the AWARDS database.Report all incidents within 24 hours and ensure compliance with Vibrant and DOHMH standards.Meet weekly with supervisors and attend professional development sessions.Required Skills & Abilities:Strong interpersonal and communication skills; bilingual/bicultural preferred.Ability to evaluate information, solve problems, and work independently.Skilled in youth engagement, vocational counseling, and conflict resolution.Proficient in Microsoft Office, Google Suite, and other digital tools.Composed under pressure, organized, and able to manage multiple priorities.Required Qualifications:Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Psychology, Mental Health Counseling, or related field required; Master's preferred.Minimum of 2 years of experience in vocational or employment services for youth.Knowledge of labor market trends and employer expectations.Experience with evidence-based practices and job coaching models.Physical and Sensory Requirements:Ability to remain in a stationary position for prolonged periods.Frequent use of computers, phones, and standard office equipment.Occasional in-person travel to employer sites and community events.Must be able to communicate effectively in person and virtually.