Vocational Specialist

New Jersey Association on Correction; Paterson (NJ); On-site; USD 43,000 - 50,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Supportive work environment

Opportunities for professional growth

Job summary

The New Jersey Association on Correction is seeking a Vocational Specialist to empower adult residents, including those classified to work release, in achieving their employment and educational goals. You will develop individualized employment plans and collaborate with various stakeholders ensuring holistic client success.

This role demands a Bachelor's degree in Human Services or a related field, with a strong emphasis on client-centered approaches. Join NJAC in promoting social justice through educational programs and community support.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Social Work, or related field; or six years of relevant experience.
• Must pass criminal, education, substance use, and driver background checks.
• Valid driver’s license and access to an insured, registered vehicle.

Responsibilities

• Develop and coordinate vocational opportunities for program participants.
• Serve as the liaison between employers and participants.
• Monitor and review client employment and community service logs.

Skills

Supervisory experience with residential clients

Relationship-building skills

Proficiency in Microsoft Office

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Human Services or related field

Tools

Client tracking software

Job description

Vocational Specialist

Location: Millicent Fenwick House
Department: DOC Programs
Reports to: Director
Salary Range: $43,000 - $50,000
FLSA Status: Exempt

To apply: Email your application to Denise Jennings, HR Director, at [e-mail]

About NJAC

Since 1961, NJAC has been dedicated to helping people with a past build a future. We promote social justice and human dignity through educational, legislative, and rehabilitative programs for offenders and victims of crime.

Position Summary

As a Vocational Specialist with case management responsibilities, you will empower adult residents—state inmates classified to work release, substance abuse, or special needs programs—to achieve their employment and educational goals. You will assess client abilities and interests, develop individualized employment plans, provide career counseling, facilitate job training and placement, and offer ongoing support. You will also collaborate with employers, community resources, and families to ensure holistic client success, while maintaining compliance with NJAC and NJ Department of Corrections protocols.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and coordinate vocational and employment opportunities for program participants
• Serve as the primary liaison between employers and participants
• Establish and maintain relationships with potential employers
• Schedule and supervise community service events
• Monitor and review client employment and community service logs
• Maintain accurate client records, including assessments, treatment plans, and progress reports
• Provide individual and group counseling, crisis intervention, and conflict resolution
• Participate in multidisciplinary case conferences and treatment plan reviews
• Develop aftercare plans and ensure all required documentation is completed
• Advocate for clients seeking housing, legal advice, or other services, encouraging independent action
• Ensure compliance with all safety, security, and accountability protocols, including facility searches and urine monitoring
• Complete required annual training and participate in staff meetings and training sessions
• Prepare reports for management and funders as required
• Maintain client and staff confidentiality at all times
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Social Work, or related field; or six years of relevant experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Experience supervising residential clients preferred
• Must pass criminal, education, substance use, and driver background checks
• Valid driver’s license and access to an insured, registered vehicle
• Knowledge of client groups and issues related to the program area
• Familiarity with social learning theory, cognitive-behavioral interventions, and group facilitation
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, email, internet, and client tracking software

Personal Characteristics

• Ethical, professional, and committed to NJAC’s mission
• Strong relationship-building and communication skills
• Creative, innovative, and client-focused
• Team-oriented with leadership abilities
• Organized, decisive, and solution-oriented

Working Conditions

• Office and residential program environment; occasional nonstandard workplaces
• Standard work week with some evenings, weekends, and on-call rotation required
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs. and perform physical activities as needed

Equal Opportunity Statement

NJAC is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. We welcome all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation, disability, age, marital status, sexual orientation, prior involvement in the criminal justice system, or other protected status.

This revised posting is ready to use and highlights the essential functions, qualifications, and values of the Vocational Specialist/Case Manager role at NJAC.