Employment Specialist

RISE Services; Germantown (MD); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A community-focused employment support organization in Germantown, MD, is seeking an Employment Specialist to empower individuals with disabilities to secure meaningful employment. The role includes client assessments, job readiness training, and ongoing support to ensure successful integration into the workforce. Ideal candidates will possess a Bachelor's degree in a related field and experience in supporting specific populations. Competitive benefits offered for full-time employees.

Benefits

Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance

PTO accrual

Holiday accrual

Employee Assistance Program

Employee Tenure Bonuses

Qualifications

• Experience working with individuals with disabilities or diverse populations.
• Knowledge of local labor market trends and job search strategies.
• Familiarity with disability rights laws and vocational rehabilitation services.

Responsibilities

• Conduct initial assessments to evaluate clients' skills and goals.
• Provide training on job skills like resume writing and interview techniques.
• Assist clients in identifying job opportunities and application processes.
• Provide on-the-job support to ensure client integration and retention.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Coaching skills

Interpersonal skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, counseling, or related field

Job description

RISE Services is an organization with a wealth of knowledge and experience to help individuals with disabilities obtain and maintain competitive employment.

Job Overview

We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Employment Specialist to provide individualized support and guidance to individuals with disabilities or other barriers to employment. The Employment Specialist will work closely with clients to develop job readiness skills, identify suitable employment opportunities, and provide ongoing support to ensure successful integration into the workforce. The ideal candidate will have a passion for empowering others and a commitment to helping individuals achieve their employment goals.

Key Responsibilities

Client Assessment and Goal Setting

• Conduct initial assessments to evaluate clients\' skills, abilities, and employment goals.
• Collaborate with clients to develop personalized employment plans based on their strengths, interests, and needs.

Job Readiness Training

• Provide training and support to help clients develop essential job skills, such as resume writing, interviewing techniques, and workplace etiquette.
• Conduct mock interviews and role-playing exercises to prepare clients for job interviews and workplace interactions.

Job Search Assistance

• Assist clients in identifying suitable job opportunities based on their skills, interests, and employment goals.
• Provide guidance on job search strategies, including networking, online job boards, and employment agencies.

Employment Placement

• Facilitate the job application process, including completing job applications, submitting resumes, and scheduling interviews.
• Advocate for clients with potential employers and help negotiate job offers and accommodations as needed.

On-the-Job Support

• Provide on-the-job support and coaching to clients in their workplace to ensure successful integration and job retention.
• Assist clients with learning job tasks, adapting to the work environment, and developing positive relationships with coworkers and supervisors.

Progress Monitoring and Reporting

• Track client progress and document outcomes, including employment placements, job retention, and skill development.
• Prepare regular reports on client progress and program outcomes for internal and external stakeholders.

Community Outreach and Collaboration

• Build and maintain relationships with employers, community organizations, and other stakeholders to identify job opportunities and support services for clients.
• Participate in community events, job fairs, and networking opportunities to promote the program and recruit clients.

Continuous Learning and Professional Development

• Stay informed about best practices in supported employment, disability rights, and vocational rehabilitation.
• Participate in training and professional development activities to enhance job coaching skills and knowledge.

Requirements

• Bachelor\'s degree in social work, psychology, counseling, human services, or a related field; relevant work experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
• Experience working with individuals with disabilities, diverse populations, or other barriers to employment.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and coaching skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Knowledge of local labor market trends, job search strategies, and employment resources.
• Familiarity with disability rights laws, accommodations, and vocational rehabilitation services.
• Compassionate, patient, and empathetic attitude towards clients.
• Valid driver\'s license and reliable transportation.

RISE Services is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all employment practices within our organization, including hiring, recruiting, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, leave of absence, compensation, benefits, training, and apprenticeship. RISE Services makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time. For more information, you may contact our company.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
• PTO accrual and Holiday accrual
• Short-Term Disability
• Life Insurance and Long-Term Care Option
• Employee Assistance Program
• Employee Tenure Bonuses

*Benefits are available to all full-time employees only and do not apply to part-time employees

*Mileage reimbursement is available for all travel when the individual is in your vehicle, as well as for client-related travel that exceeds 25 miles one-way