Employment Specialist

Goodwill Industries NYNJ; New York (NY); On-site; USD 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking an Employment Specialist to provide vital vocational support and planning services. In this role, you will work closely with individuals facing various challenges to help them secure and maintain meaningful employment. You will assess needs, develop personalized support plans, and conduct job readiness training, all while collaborating with families and community resources. This position requires a compassionate individual who can navigate the complexities of employment services and advocate for participants' success. Join a dynamic team dedicated to making a difference in the lives of others and enjoy a fulfilling career in a supportive environment.

Qualifications

• BA degree required, experience with disabilities preferred.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and multi-task effectively.

Responsibilities

• Provide vocational planning and case management for participants.
• Conduct job readiness training and develop individualized support plans.

Skills

Case Management

Job Readiness Training

Interpersonal Skills

Vocational Planning

Flexibility

Bilingual Communication

Education

BA degree in social sciences or human services

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Outlook

Microsoft Excel

Web-based applications

Job description

Position Title: Employment Specialist (Advance)
Location: Varies

Reports To: Program Supervisor
Cost Center: Varies

General Purpose:

Provides ongoing service and vocational planning, case management, and goal-related employment services to participants toward the goal of maintaining employment. Works with the participants, employers, and support teams to see that successful employment outcomes are obtained and maintained.

Essential Functions:

• Screen for program eligibility and assess each participant’s needs. Link participants with other services as appropriate and provide assistance with applying for benefits and services including OPWDD, ACCESS VR, and community service providers.
• Assist with the intake process including a Person-Centered Individualized Assessment.
• Develop Individualized Vocational Support Plans with each individual, identifying goals and outcomes for obtaining competitive employment and vocational services and supports.
• Provide direct and indirect Vocational Support Services in accordance with each participant’s Vocational Support Plan. Deliver services in a variety of locations including the individual’s home, community locations, public transportation, and agency-operated centers/sites.
• Conduct Job Readiness Training including instruction and teaching of evidence-informed job/work readiness curriculums, individualized and work-related behaviors, and vocational planning. Deliver soft skills training in social skills development, interpersonal skill building for the workplace, and stress management.
• Conduct Marc Gold and Associate Discovery.
• Provide ongoing Service and Vocational Planning to ensure participants achieve their goals and receive appropriate vocational services and supports.
• Develop community placements including volunteering, internships, mentorships, apprenticeships, job clubs, work site visits, job placement, or other job exploration modalities.
• Provide participants with travel training on public transportation and Para-transit.
• Using Supported Employment evidence-based strategies and Customized Employment principles, secure placements with/for participants. Assist in the planning for self-employment where applicable.
• Provide job coaching/instruction and training to help participants obtain and maintain employment. Conduct vocational and situational observation and assessments in community placements.
• Document contacts, services, and progress of each participant towards goals/outcomes in service plans, case notes, reports, and other documentation as necessary.
• Collaborate with families, community service providers, and other supports involved in each participant’s case.
• Attend trainings as needed and recommended by agency and supervisor.
• Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor.

Qualifications/Basic Job Requirements:

• BA degree in social sciences or human services.
• One-year experience working with people with disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorder preferred.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule as it pertains to the changing needs of the caseload.
• Ability to effectively utilize Microsoft Word, Outlook, Excel, and web-based applications/software.
• Requires the ability to work in a fast-paced environment, multi-task, prioritize, pay attention to details, and meet deadlines.
• Bi-lingual a plus.

Scope of Responsibility & Positions Supervised:

Maintains confidentiality and security of customer information and records.

Special Working Conditions:

Traveling throughout multiple boroughs in New York City.