Employment Specialist

Ability Beyond; Waterbury (CT); On-site; USD 41,000 - 50,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Extensive training

Comprehensive benefits

Paid time off

Retirement plan options

Loan forgiveness eligibility

Employee Assistance Program

Diversity and inclusion initiatives

Job summary

Ability Beyond in Waterbury, CT, is seeking an Employment Specialist to help individuals build work readiness, secure placements, and sustain meaningful employment. The role emphasizes person-centered coaching, resume support, interview prep, and ongoing advocacy.

The position requires a Bachelor’s degree in psychology or related field (or equivalent experience), a valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and strong communication and networking abilities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in psychology, human services, or a related field OR relevant experience.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable vehicle.
• Strong communication, advocacy, and networking skills.

Responsibilities

• Support individuals in building work readiness, job skills, and self-esteem through person-centered on-the-job coaching and individualized placement.
• Provide guidance in goal setting, resume building, interview preparation, and developing soft skills that promote emotional well-being and workplace success.
• Partner with employers and community organizations to create inclusive, recovery-friendly employment opportunities.
• Offer consistent follow-up, encouragement, and advocacy to help individuals maintain employment and stability.
• Identify job opportunities, develop soft skills, and network with different departments or companies.
• Complete required documentation accurately and conduct follow-up visits to ensure success.

Skills

Communication skills

Advocacy

Networking

Education

Bachelor’s degree in psychology or related field

Relevant experience

Job description

Pay Rate: $45,000 / year

Multiple Openings: Greater New Haven Area or Waterbury/Torrington Area or Greater Danbury Area

Schedule: M-F 8A-4P/8:30A-4:30P FLEX (Full Time)

If you have a passion for helping others find purpose through meaningful work, this is an opportunity to make a true difference! This role is perfect for recent college graduates, those studying psychology or human services, career changers, and individuals with a background in mental health.

What You Will Do

• Support individuals in building work readiness, job skills, and self-esteem through person-centered on-the-job coaching and individualized placement.
• Provide guidance in goal setting, resume building, interview preparation, and developing soft skills that promote emotional well-being and workplace success.
• Partner with employers and community organizations to create inclusive, recovery-friendly employment opportunities.
• Offer consistent follow-up, encouragement, and advocacy to help individuals maintain employment and stability.
• Identify job opportunities, develop soft skills, and network with different departments or companies.
• Complete required documentation accurately and conduct follow-up visits to ensure success.

What You Will Need

• Bachelor’s degree in psychology, human services, or a related field OR relevant experience.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable vehicle.
• Strong communication, advocacy, and networking skills.

Why You Will Love This Role

• This is more than just a job. It is an opportunity to make a real difference. You will help individuals gain confidence, build independence, and live meaningful lives while growing your own career in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Perks And Benefits

• Extensive paid training and certification program
• Generous benefits package (medical, dental, vision, pet insurance)
• Paid time off (increases over years of service)
• Self-directed retirement plan options (403B)
• PSLF loan forgiveness eligibility
• Access to an Employee Assistance Program including mental health resources
• Ongoing diversity, equity, inclusion, & belonging initiatives

See the Impact First Hand

Career Development - Life of An Employment Specialist (youtube.com)

Join Ability Beyond, where you can be accepted, celebrated, and truly impactful.

Ability Beyond is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment, ensuring that no individual is discriminated against based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, or veteran status. #CD