Employment Pathways Specialist — Help People Build Careers

Goodwill Industries of the Inland Northwest; Spokane (WA); On-site; USD 28,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

Goodwill Industries of the Inland Northwest (GIIN) is seeking Employment Specialists for the Foundational Community Supports program in Spokane. You will identify career opportunities, help participants navigate barriers to employment, and connect them to community resources while promoting long-term stability.

Requirements include an associate degree or equivalent, a valid driver’s license, and the ability to pass background and driver record checks.

Qualifications

• Associate degree or equivalent from two-year college or technical school; or six months to one-year related experience &/or training; or equivalent combination of education & experience.

Responsibilities

• Conduct intake & assessment to evaluate a participant's eligibility, background, abilities, interests, & support needs. Ensure participants understand their rights, benefits, & responsibilities under FCS service provisions. Maintain accurate database touchpoints.
• Develop & maintain independent, person-centered treatment plans with measurable goals & outcomes. Revise plans following significant events, such as major life transitions or changes in support needs.
• Establish & maintain strong relationships with participants, care teams, referral agencies, & service teams.
• Provide counseling on career & educational pathways, including support for training & skill development relevant to community-based employment & independent living.
• Connect participants to community-based resources that address challenges such as housing, childcare, mental health, substance abuse, domestic violence intervention, financial stability, & health care.
• Assist participants in understanding their benefits, including how employment & independent living decisions may affect their financial standing. Refer to benefits counseling & provide support in reporting earnings.
• Provide individualized preparation for community-based employment, including resume assistance, workplace etiquette, personal confidence-building, & other essential job skills.
• Assist in matching individuals with employment & volunteer opportunities aligned with their personal interests & strengths, ensuring fair wages & benefits comparable to others in similar roles.
• Offer long-term, individualized supports to ensure job retention, stability, & personal progress. Help foster natural workplace supports & provide motivation for continued independence.
• Provide guidance on daily living skills, financial management, & household stability for individuals navigating independent or supported living arrangements.
• Ensure the personal safety & well-being of all participants receiving FCS services, implementing risk mitigation strategies.
• Participate in community fairs & events that promote self-sufficiency, employment opportunities, & broader inclusion within local networks.
• Stay informed of community employment trends & support service opportunities to help participants make informed decisions.
• Keep up-to-date with state & federal regulations affecting FCS services.
• Meet or exceed program goals related to billable services, funding compliance, & participant success rates.
• Provide services in accordance with GIIN policies, CARF accreditation, & FCS program standards, ensuring ethical practices.
• Work collaboratively with WFSto provide participant services.
• Follow all policies, procedures, & directives of GIIN assuring safety of personnel or property.
• Properly wear & maintain all required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
• Maintain agency confidentiality. Violation of confidentiality is cause for immediate dismissal.
• Comply with all health, safety, & fire standards & all local, state, & federal regulations (WISHA & OSHA).
• Other duties as assigned.

Education

Associate degree or equivalent

Job description

Goodwill Industries of the Inland Northwest (GIIN) is seeking Employment Specialists for the Foundational Community Supports program in Spokane. You will identify career opportunities, help participants navigate barriers to employment, and connect them to community resources while promoting long-term stability.

Requirements include an associate degree or equivalent, a valid driver’s license, and the ability to pass background and driver record checks.