Employment Specialist

Department: Mission Services

Supervisor: Employment Services Manager

BASIC FUNCTION

Develops and implements an individualized plan to assist individuals with disabilities and other barriers to independence prepare for, obtain, and retain employment in the community. Utilizes evidenced-based practices, including effective job preparation and retention strategies for individuals with disabilities and other barriers, to support the successful completion of initial and return-to-work goals. Cultivates relationships with the local business community to support the employment objectives of clients and to promote the mission of Goodwill Keystone Area.

JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Develops a consumer driven Individualized Employment Plan (IEP) with individuals and their supports that identifies an employment goal and the short- and long-term objectives to reaching and maintaining that goal.

Provides services in support of the IEP goal including, but not limited to, assisting individuals develop appropriate career goals, complete resumes and job applications, develop job interviewing skills, disclose disability, and request job accommodations.

Works with individuals to develop basic work soft skills and appropriate problem-solving and coping skills to aid in job retention.

Utilizes evidenced-based strategies to support the successful employment and job retention of individuals with disabilities, including on-the-job training/coaching techniques, Customized Employment, Informational Interviews with local businesses, and paid community-based work assessments.

Employs a variety of networking and information-gathering techniques with the business community to promote Goodwill's mission and help individuals achieve the best job match possible. Understands and utilizes local labor market information to help individuals make informed career choices.

Engages funding sources, community resources, family members and other supports of the individual's choosing to seek solutions to barriers to employment, including transportation and child care coordination, benefits and budget counseling, personal counseling, medical services, and housing coordination.

Completes service delivery and documentation according to compliance standards established by Goodwill, funding sources, and governmental agencies pursuant to applicable state and federal law. Completes all paperwork accurately, timely, and professionally according to standards of documentation established by Goodwill, funding sources, and others.

Understands the major legislation and policy influencing the employment of people with disabilities and other barriers to employment and can integrate this information into service delivery strategies.

Coordinates and attends meetings as required/requested that support the employment goals of individuals served. Attends training that supports and enhances core job responsibilities.

As appropriate, serves on interdepartmental committees to integrate and promote Mission services within Goodwill Keystone Area.

Promotes an environment of workplace safety by training and informing others regarding safety standards/precautions. Monitors safety and takes corrective action. Assures that regulatory safety requirements are adhered to.

Communicates progress, problems, and concerns to the Employment Services Manager.

POSITIONS SUPERVISED

None

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JOB SPECIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's Degree in Human Services or related field; or Associate Degree and two (2) years of relevant experience; or a combination of education and experience which enables the individual to meet the standards and expectations of the position.
• Must have a valid driver's license, reliable vehicle, and satisfactorily complete a motor vehicle check on an annual basis.
• Willingness to transport clients within the community to conduct job development and other activities necessary for individuals to obtain and retain employment.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain ACRE Certification or Certified Employment Support Professional (CESP).
• Must possess good written and verbal communication skills.
• Must present self in a professional manner.
• Must be able to work maturely with confidential information.
• Ability to prioritize and organize work under minimal supervision.
• Ability to work beyond normal schedule as needed.
• Basic computer knowledge/literacy required (i.e., knowledge of Microsoft Office products, ability to utilize web-based applications and navigate the Internet).
• Must complete and successfully pass Criminal Record Check, Child Abuse Clearance, FBI Clearance and Low Risk Federal Background Check.