Vocational Services Specialist

Educational Alliance; New York (NY); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous PTO Policy

Medical & Dental Insurance

Free Gym Membership

Job summary

Educational Alliance in New York is seeking a full-time Vocational Services Specialist. This role involves coordinating vocational rehabilitation and employment-related services for residents in recovery from substance use disorders. You will assist with job readiness, placement, and employer engagement.

The ideal candidate holds a Master's degree in Rehabilitation Counseling and possesses relevant experience. Benefits include a competitive salary, generous PTO, and comprehensive medical insurance.

Qualifications

• Master’s Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling or related field is required.
• Experience working with individuals with substance use disorders is essential.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries.

Responsibilities

• Conduct employment readiness assessments for clients.
• Develop employment and career plans.
• Facilitate job matching and placement activities.

Skills

Knowledge of workforce development systems

Experience with substance use disorders

Effective communication

Multitasking ability

Computer proficiency

Education

Master’s Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling

Tools

Microsoft Word

Electronic Health Records

Job description

Educational Alliance brings together and partners with diverse communities in Lower Manhattan, offering individuals and families high-quality, multi-generational programs and services that enhance their well-being and socioeconomic opportunities. We are a place where everyone is welcome and where progress is powered one relationship at a time. We are proud of our legacy as a Jewish organization, and we provide high-quality, transformational services and programs to all New Yorkers through our network of community centers on Manhattan’s Lower East Side and East Village. As we have for 130 years, we offer best-in-class programming–now across 15 sites—focusing on a mix of education, health and wellness, arts and culture, and civic engagement.

The Center for Recovery and Wellness takes a holistic, strengths-based approach to recovery and wellness that responds to the distinct needs of each individual. Programs include residential and outpatient addiction treatment, recovery services, prevention education, and community programming. CRW offers culturally competent, evidence-based programs and services that strengthen individuals and communities, enhance resiliency, and foster lasting recovery.

We are seeking a full-time Vocational Services Specialist who will be responsible for coordinating vocational rehabilitation and other employment-related services for a 100-bed residential, trauma informed, modified therapeutic community for residents being treated for substance use disorder. Services provided are individual and group counseling, referring clients to employment and skills based training services, legal services, and budgeting.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Direct Client Services

• Conduct employment readiness and vocational assessments for all new clients
• Develop person-centered employment and career plans
• Deliver ongoing 1:1 counseling and group vocational sessions
• Provide resume development, application support, and interview preparation
• Facilitate job matching and placement activities
• Conduct post-placement follow-ups at 6-day, 30, 60, and 90-day milestones

Job Development & Employer Engagement

• Build and maintain relationships with local employers across industries
• Establish and document new employer partnerships each quarter
• Conduct outreach and business engagement activities
• Educate employers on recovery-friendly workplace practices
• Collaborate with OASAS job development resources and statewide initiatives

Regional Coordination

• Deliver services across all OASAS-certified programs in Manhattan
• Provide on-site or virtual services to partner agencies
• Coordinate with clinical and case management teams for integrated care
• Participate in monthly meetings with the OASAS Technical Assistance Liaison
• Attend required OASAS trainings and align with statewide workforce strategies

Documentation & Reporting

• Maintain client-level tracking of services and outcomes
• Complete required monthly OASAS reporting, including:
  • Job assessments completed
  • Job search activities
  • Job placements and retention outcomes
  • Employer engagement activities
• Ensure all reporting uses unique identifiers (no PII)
• Maintain compliance with grant deliverables and data collection standards

Compliance & Quality Assurance

• Maintain compliance with:
  • 42 CFR Part 2 confidentiality requirements
  • HIPAA and OASAS regulations
• Ensure services are non-duplicative of other OASAS-funded vocational services
• Participate in supervision and professional development activities
• Maintain documentation aligned with audit and CFR reporting requirements

Other

• Attend weekly staff meetings
• Attend training as required
• Perform special projects and other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS

• Master’s Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling or Counseling, CRC Preferred
• Experience working with individuals with substance use disorders
• Knowledge of workforce development systems and employment services
• Demonstrated experience in job placement, counseling, or case management
• Knowledge of labor market trends and workforce systems
• Access VR credential or experience
• One year of experience in career counseling of clients with substance abuse disorders
• Knowledge of strengths-based counseling, cognitive behavioral treatment and behavior modification in practice
• Weekend availability required
• Ability to multitask and handle challenging situations in a professional and courteous manner
• Ability to work professionally and empathetically with a diverse group of clients and staff
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing with a broad variety of people, including other team members and management
• Ability to maintain appropriate professional boundaries and confidentiality
• Competency with computer based programs such as Microsoft Word, Outlook email, Relias, and Electronic Health records

Benefits

• Generous PTO Policy
• Competitive Salary
• Medical & Dental Insurance
• Pension Plan
• 403b Retirement Plans
• Discount Perks for Movies, Broadway Shows, Amusement Parks, etc.
• Free Gym Membership to our MCC Fitness & 14TH ST Y Gym
• Discounts to programs at Educational Alliance

Limitations and Disclaimer

The above job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required for the position.

EEO Info

Educational Alliance is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, marital status, disability status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

For further information about Educational Alliance, please visit https://edalliance.org.