Employment Specialist (Supported Employment)

Employment Specialist (Supported Employment) This role requires a results-driven professional who can effectively “sell” both the program and its participants to employers, building strong partnerships that lead to meaningful employment outcomes. Department: Department of Vocational Rehabilitation Services Reports to: Program Manager / Executive Director FLSA: Non-Exempt Position Type: Full-time (may include some program-based scheduling flexibility) with Benefits Date Revised/Created: March 2026 Job Summary The Employment Specialist is responsible for coordinating and supporting the delivery of employment services for individuals living with disabilities, including job development, placement, and retention. The Employment Specialist maintains an active caseload and models best practices in employment services. Sales, business development, and/or employer engagement experience strongly preferred, including the ability to promote candidates and secure employment opportunities. Work Hours This is a full-time non-exempt position. Hours vary based on program schedules, worksite needs, and community events; typical work hours are 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Some irregular hours may be required during peak program periods. Qualifications Associate’s degree in related field preferred Minimum of two (2) years’ experience in vocational rehabilitation, rehabilitation counseling, job development, job coaching, special education, or a related field preferred Experience working with adults with disabilities strongly preferred Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills Strong organization, time management, and follow-through Self-starter with the ability to work independently to meet goals Ability to work effectively with individuals of varying cognitive abilities Sales background or experience in employer engagement highly desirable Computer proficiency (case notes, databases, word processing, online job applications) Ability to read, understand, follow, and enforce safety procedures Twenty-one (21) years of age or older Must pass background check Valid driver’s license and driving record acceptable to WE Inc.’s insurance provider Commitment to obtain ADRS Supported Employment Certification within six (6) months Key Responsibilities & Performance Standards Employment Services & Outcomes Carry a modified caseload of consumers and provide job development, placement, and retention services Support consumers in job search, applications, interviews, and onboarding Provide follow-up services to support job retention and stability Assist employers with accommodations and workplace supports Meet or exceed placement and retention goals Employer Engagement Develop and maintain relationships with local employers Identify job opportunities aligned with consumer skills and interests Support team efforts in job development and employer outreach Maintain an active pipeline of employment opportunities Serve as a point of contact for employer-related needs or concerns Documentation & Compliance Ensure accurate, timely, and complete case documentation Support alignment between service delivery, authorizations, and billing Maintain organized, audit-ready files Communication & Coordination Maintain consistent communication with Program Manager Support coordination between employment services and other service areas Address and resolve issues impacting service delivery or employment outcomes Participate in team meetings, case reviews, and trainings Compensation $20-$24 per hour Working Conditions and Physical Demands Working Conditions: Work occurs in an office environment and in various community sites including employer worksites and program locations. Involves regular contact with staff, consumers, students, employers, and the public. Driving is required. Physical Demands: Frequent sitting, standing, walking, bending, stooping, reaching, and lifting up to 30 pounds (and up to 25 pounds in worksite supervision contexts). Manual dexterity required for computers and office equipment. Normal hearing/vision ranges required. Workshops Empowerment Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. #J-18808-Ljbffr