Employment Specialist- Newport VT

Northeast Kingdom Human Services; Derby (VT); On-site; USD 28,929 - 34,440; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Tuition reimbursement

Health insurance

Dental insurance

403(b) retirement plan

Paid time off

Wellness program

Job summary

Northeast Kingdom Human Services in Newport, VT, is seeking an Employment Specialist to support individuals with developmental disabilities in gaining and maintaining meaningful employment in their community. You will assess goals, provide individualized job training, and collaborate with employers and partner agencies to promote competitive employment outcomes.

The role focuses on one-on-one coaching, community-based supports, and developing tailored training plans while ensuring client

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience with individuals with developmental disabilities preferred.
• Ability to work independently in community settings.

Responsibilities

• Work with an assigned caseload to assess training and employment needs.
• Provide one-on-one job coaching and skill development.
• Assist individuals with job search, applications, and interviews.
• Provide on-site job support to help individuals learn and retain new positions.
• Develop individualized training curriculum based on strengths and goals.
• Collaborate with employers and community partners to develop training opportunities.
• Participate in Student IEP transitional meetings.
• Work closely with Case Managers and CIS staff to develop Individual Support Agreements.
• Coordinate with agencies such as Vocational Rehabilitation and the Department of Employment and Training.
• Complete written assessments, documentation, and progress notes in accordance with state and federal guidelines.
• Maintain strict consumer confidentiality.

Skills

Independent work

Communication

Driver's license

Collaboration

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Job Details

Job Location: Derby, VT 05855

Salary Range: $21.25 - $25.97 Hourly

If you’re looking for an opportunity to do meaningful work in your community, join the passionate, community‑minded team at Northeast Kingdom Human Services (NKHS). NKHS is a 501(c)(3) private non‑for‑profit organization operating with the purpose of promoting a high quality, comprehensive community mental health program in Vermont’s beautiful Northeast Kingdom. Our mission is to enrich communities and enhance the ability of individuals and families to improve their lives. NKHS is a Designated Agency contracted with the State of Vermont to provide the highest quality of service in the areas of adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities, children and youth with serious emotional disabilities, and adults with mental health and substance use challenges.

We serve Caledonia, Essex, and Orleans counties through a wide variety of targeted programs for individuals of all ages. NKHS has employees providing case management, community and home supports, residential care, psychiatry, medication management, therapy, vocational supports, school‑based counseling, emergency care, and respite services. These services are provided annually to nearly 4,000 of our local community members, helping them overcome challenges and achieve health in mind, body, and spirit.

Visit us at NKHS.org and check out Life in the NEK of Vermont.

Employment Specialist

Location: Newport, Vermont

Developmental Services Program

The Employment Specialist is responsible for supporting individuals with developmental disabilities in gaining and maintaining meaningful employment in their community. This position works directly with individuals, employers, schools, and partner agencies to assess employment goals, provide individualized job training, and support long‑term job success. As part of the Developmental Services team, you will help individuals build skills, increase independence, and achieve competitive employment outcomes.

Primary Responsibilities

• Work with an assigned caseload to assess training and employment needs
• Provide one‑on‑one job coaching and skill development
• Assist individuals with job search, applications, and interviews
• Provide on‑site job support to help individuals learn and retain new positions
• Develop individualized training curriculum based on strengths and goals
• Collaborate with employers and community partners to develop training opportunities
• Participate in Student IEP transitional meetings
• Work closely with Case Managers and CIS staff to develop Individual Support Agreements
• Coordinate with agencies such as Vocational Rehabilitation and the Department of Employment and Training
• Complete written assessments, documentation, and progress notes in accordance with state and federal guidelines
• Maintain strict consumer confidentiality

Position Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Demonstrated experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities preferred
• Ability to work independently in community settings
• Strong communication and collaboration skills
• Reliable transportation, valid driver’s license, and required auto insurance coverage

Salary & Benefits

• Competitive Pay! $21.25 to $25.97
• Tuition and continuing education reimbursements and loan repayment program
• Health and dental insurance
• 403(b) retirement plan with Agency contribution and match
• Generous paid time off, 12 sick days and 12 paid holidays
• Outstanding employee wellness program
• Exceptional benefits package including low‑cost medical and dental, short‑ and long‑term disability coverage, life insurance, AFLAC, employee assistance program, and additional optional benefits

If you are passionate about helping individuals achieve meaningful employment and want to make a real difference in the Northeast Kingdom, we encourage you to apply.