Employment Specialist

The Employment Specialist is tasked with the responsibility of facilitating the employment, job training, and educational pursuits of consumers in alignment with their career objectives, both short and long term. This role necessitates the provision of mentorship and support to the individuals served, encompassing skill-based instruction and guidance. Moreover, the Employment Specialist is engaged in the enhancement of job skills, preparation for employment, and overcoming barriers, utilizing positive behavioral strategies to foster growth and development. This includes the provision of systematic instruction, interview preparation, job training, follow-along support, discovery activities, volunteer work, internships, travel training, and civic involvement. Additionally, the Employment Specialist is entrusted with the identification and cultivation of business partnerships aimed at the promotion of individuals with disabilities within their organizations. Integral responsibilities encompass the evaluation of skills and career paths, progress monitoring, crisis intervention, and facilitating referrals. The role also entails a focus on job retention and advancement, as well as the cultivation of motivation and de-escalation skills. Proficiency in interpersonal and communication skills is paramount, as is the ability to generate Individual Support Plans (ISPs), Monthly reports, SalesForce and HCSIS documents for the employment program, and fulfill other assigned duties.

Duties and Responsibilities

1. Evaluates skills and qualifications, advises on career paths, and promotes employment opportunities.
2. Communicate with clients to understand their goals and ambitions notating interests in Career Development Plan
3. Intake of new referrals: assessing consumers’ career interests and preferences and helping them achieve their career goals.
4. Work with consumers on job selection, resume writing, and interviewing skills.
5. Manage the ongoing relationship with each business contact.
6. Monitor, document, and evaluate the progress of clients.
7. Providing crisis intervention as necessary.
8. Facilitating the transition of appropriate referrals and ensuring adequate assessment of individuals.
9. Communicating on a regular basis with representatives of Employment department.
10. Work with individuals on job retention and advancement.
11. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
12. Help in the development of motivation, skills, and de-escalation tactics.
13. Be able to write ISP’s, Monthlies, SalesForce and HCSIS documents for the employment.
14. Ability to keep case files (hard copy and electronic) up to date
15. All other duties as assigned.

Exercise independent professional judgment and strong decision-making skills
•    Strong communication skills w/ critical conflict resolution skills, and de-escalation techniques
•    Provide on-call assistance to individuals
•    Strong organizational skills

Education and Experience

1. Associates Degree
2. Experience with persons with disabilities. 

Physical Requirements

-Navigation of Public transportation

-Could require traveling / Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.