Supported Employment Specialist

Metropolitan Development Council; Tacoma (WA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Metropolitan Development Council is seeking an Employment Specialist to deliver individualized employment services, engage employers, and support participants facing barriers to sustainable careers. You will assess needs, develop plans, help with applications and interviews, provide coaching, and maintain thorough case documentation.

Strong communication, confidentiality, and organizational skills are essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Services or related field required.
• Minimum 2 years of relevant professional experience.
• Strong communication, networking and confidentiality skills.
• Experience with case notes, documentation and reporting expected.
• Valid WA State Driver License and reliable transportation required.
• Certifications such as ECS/ES Professional or CRC desirable.

Responsibilities

• Provide individualized employment services and job development.
• Conduct vocational assessments focusing on strengths and preferences.
• Develop employment plans with participants collaboratively.
• Assist with applications, interviews and workplace readiness.
• Offer on-the-job coaching and follow-along supports as needed.
• Maintain case files and progress notes per standards.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication

Time management

Multitasking

Microsoft Office

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Social Services

Tools

Case management software

MS Office

Job description

The Employment Specialist provides individualized employment services to help participants overcome barriers to employment and achieve sustainable career goals. This role combines direct client services, employer engagement, and community outreach to create pathways to meaningful employment for individuals facing multiple challenges including behavioral health conditions, disabilities, justice involvement, housing instability, or other systemic barriers. The Employment Specialist will have strong interpersonal and communication skills with ability to work effectively with diverse populations, excellent organizational and time management abilities with capacity to manage multiple cases simultaneously, and proficiency in case management software and Microsoft Office applications. Valid driver's license and reliable transportation is required for community-based work.Effectively communicate with all stake holders: clients, clinicians, support team, insurance providers, DSHS, DVR, DDA, etc.Conduct rapid job search activities beginning within 30 days of enrollmentComplete person-centered vocational assessments focusing on strengths, interests, and preferencesDevelop individualized employment plans collaboratively with participantsProvide benefits counseling and work incentive planningAssist with job applications, interview preparation, and workplace readinessConduct job carving and customized employment development as neededProvide on-the-job coaching and workplace supportNegotiate reasonable accommodations with employersDeliver follow-along supports for as long as neededFacilitate career advancement and job transitionsProvide crisis intervention and problem-solving supportAssist with workplace relationship building and social skillsDevelop and maintain relationships with local employers through face-to-face visitsEducate employers about benefits of hiring individuals with disabilitiesIdentify job opportunities that match participant preferencesNegotiate job accommodations and workplace modificationsProvide ongoing consultation to employers and supervisorsAssist with conflict resolution and workplace issuesMaintain comprehensive case files and progress notes using required documentation standardsSubmit timely and accurate billing using appropriate procedure codesTrack employment outcomes and participant progressComplete required reporting and data collectionParticipate in quality assurance and program evaluation activitiesOther duties as assignedBachelor’s degree in Social Services, or any related fieldRelevant professional certifications are desirable, such as Certified Employment Support Professional, Employment Support Professional Certification, Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, or Commission of Rehabilitation Counselor Certification, or Certified Peer CounselorA minimum of 2 years’ relevant professional experienceStrong skills with technology (ex. Microsoft Windows and Office Suite)Experience with creating and maintaining case notesDemonstrated communication and networking skillsAbility to maintain confidentialityValid WA State Driver License and reliable transportation