Employment Specialist: Substance Use & Mental Health Focus

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

Benefits offered by this job

Extensive training

Benefits package

Paid time off

403B retirement plan

PSLF loan forgiveness eligibility

Employee Assistance Program

DEI initiatives

Job summary

Ability Beyond is seeking an Employment Specialist to help individuals gain job readiness and placement in the Greater Bridgeport/Norwalk area. You will coach clients, support goal setting, and prepare resumes and interview strategies to promote long-term employment.

The role emphasizes collaboration with employers and community organizations, with extensive training, benefits, and growth opportunities in a supportive, inclusive environment.

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 and job skills through on-the-job coaching and placement.
• Provide guidance in goal setting, resume building, interview prep, and soft skills for workplace success.
• Partner with employers and community organizations to create inclusive employment opportunities.
• Offer follow-up, encouragement, and advocacy to help individuals maintain employment and stability.
• Identify job opportunities, develop soft skills, and network with departments or companies.
• Complete required documentation accurately and conduct follow-up visits to ensure success.

Skills

Communication skills

Advocacy

Networking

Coaching

Education

Bachelor’s degree in psychology/human services

Job description

Pay Rate: $45,000 / year

Location: Greater Bridgeport/Norwalk 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 softskills, 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 whilegrowingyourown career in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Perks and Benefits

• Extensive paid training and certification program
• Generousbenefitspackage (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

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 toprovidingequal 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