Career Empowerment Advocate

SLE Supported Living and Employment Services; North Kansas City (MO); On-site; USD 38,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid time off

Health, dental, vision benefits

Mileage reimbursement

Employee discounts

Training and career development

Employee assistance program

Job summary

Brightli seeks an Employment Specialist to empower clients toward meaningful, community-based employment. You will develop individualized career plans, connect clients with opportunities, and collaborate with employers to create placements that support long-term vocational success.

We value advocacy, strong communication, and cross-team collaboration to build lasting community partnerships and promote client independence within Brightli’s mission-driven approach.

Qualifications

• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent required.
• Associate’s degree or Bachelor’s degree in a related field preferred.
• Minimum one year of experience providing employment services preferred.
• Criminal background, driving record, abuse/neglect, and fingerprint screening required.
• Valid driver’s license, driving record, and auto insurance required.
• Knowledge of supporting individuals with disabilities and barriers to employment.
• Understanding of case management, rehabilitation principles, and employment support services.
• Knowledge of mental health and substance use disorders and resources.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent customer service and relationship-building abilities.
• Proficiency with MS Word, Excel, internet platforms, and electronic documentation systems.
• Ability to market services and develop employer partnerships.
• Ability to respond to workplace challenges and support vocational success.

Responsibilities

• Develop individualized career plans aligned with clients’ strengths and goals.
• Connect clients with employment opportunities through job development and networking.
• Teach job-seeking, interviewing, workplace readiness, and retention skills.
• Build relationships with employers to identify hiring needs.
• Advocate for clients with employers, families, and referral sources.
• Assist clients with benefits planning and decisions on hours and compensation.
• Facilitate orientations and provide ongoing vocational counseling and support.
• Educate employers about benefits of hiring individuals with disabilities.
• Participate in team meetings and collaborate with treatment teams and stakeholders.
• Travel to provide job development and supports in the community.
• Provide on-site and off-site employment supports as necessary.
• Complete other duties as assigned by leadership.

Skills

Communication skills

Advocacy

Community outreach

Public speaking

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Associate’s or Bachelor’s in related field

Job description

Brightli seeks an Employment Specialist to empower clients toward meaningful, community-based employment. You will develop individualized career plans, connect clients with opportunities, and collaborate with employers to create placements that support long-term vocational success.

We value advocacy, strong communication, and cross-team collaboration to build lasting community partnerships and promote client independence within Brightli’s mission-driven approach.