Employment Specialist

Shore Community Services; Morton Grove (IL); On-site; USD 25,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Shore Community Services, Inc. is seeking an Employment Specialist in Skokie, IL to connect individuals with competitive community employment and provide coaching and ongoing support. The role emphasizes relationship-building with local employers, job development, and individualized client guidance.

The position requires a Bachelor's degree in a human services field and experience with IDD or community job development. Strong communication and documentation skills are essential for success.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience working with individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities or in community job development preferred.
• Strong communication, networking, time management, and documentation skills.

Responsibilities

• Build relationships with local businesses to identify and secure competitive job opportunities.
• Conduct vocational assessments, assist with resume prep and interview coaching.
• Provide on-the-job coaching and support during onboarding and early training.
• Maintain detailed records and complete required documentation.
• Collaborate with families, interdisciplinary teams, employers, and community agencies.

Skills

Strong communication

Networking

Time management

Documentation

Education

Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Social Work, Special Education, Psychology, or related field

Job description

Join Our Team: Employment Specialist

Organization: Shore Community Services, Inc.

Location: Skokie, IL

Position Type: Full-Time | Hourly (Grade 3)

Make a Lasting Impact!

Are you passionate about creating inclusive employment opportunities and empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities? At Shore Community Services, we believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to achieve meaningful employment and independence. We are seeking a dedicated, goal-oriented Employment Specialist to connect individuals with competitive community employment and support them in achieving long-term career success.

Key Responsibilities

• Job Development & Placement: Build strong relationships with local businesses and community employers to identify, develop, and secure competitive job opportunities tailored to individual strengths and career goals.
• Vocational Assessment & Training: Conduct individualized assessments, assist job seekers with resume preparation, interview coaching, and soft-skills development.
• On-the-Job Coaching & Support: Provide hands-on job coaching and support during onboarding and initial training, tapering support as the individual gains confidence and autonomy.
• Compliance & Documentation: Maintain detailed records, complete required billing/service documentation, and track individual progress in alignment with agency and state funding compliance standards.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Partner with families, interdisciplinary teams, employer partners, and community agency representatives to ensure coordinated support.

Education

Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Social Work, Special Education, Psychology, or a related field (or equivalent combination of education and experience).

Experience

Experience working with individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities or in community job development/coaching preferred.

Skills

Strong communication, networking, time management, and documentation skills.

Requirements

Valid driver's license, reliable transportation, proof of auto insurance, and successful completion of background checks.

Why Shore Community Services?

Competitive compensation and benefits package.

Supportive, collaborative work environment.

Opportunity to make a direct, transformative difference in people's lives every day.

Shore Community Services, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.