Employment Specialist

Competitive starting salary and excellent Benefits

Employment Specialist is responsible for facilitating the Center’s employment program, including but not limited to working one on one with clients, conducting workshops, outreaches and forming community partnerships.  This position supports people with disabilities in preparing for the workforce through education, training, and job readiness. The Employment Specialist also will work closely with businesses and community partners to help identify qualified candidates for various positions. The overall duties center around providing person-centered employment planning and support services that assist an individual in preparing for, obtaining, maintaining, or advancing in competitive employment.

Major Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with employers, local schools, funders, and other community partners to develop relationships, educate on the benefits of our services, and develop employment/work experience opportunities for individuals supported.

• Conduct pre-employment services, including but not limited to developing and delivering work readiness courses, assessment, evaluation, youth transition, interview preparation, benefits navigation, travel training, development of natural support, and referral for other services.

• Prepare and coordinate applications for employment/ unemployment and other related employment programs as needed.

• Assist clients in understanding how working impacts their benefits and educating clients about work incentives, SS reporting requirements, and working while receiving benefits (SSI/SSDI) 

• Maintain up-to-date and accurate case records and required reports for each individual on caseload (progress notes, implementation plans, and other as prescribed by policies and procedures).

• Communicate and coordinate amongst co-workers and team members to identify job placement opportunities for all individuals receiving services.

• Advocate with other service providers, the person's natural supports, and employers to promote adjustment and employment retention.

• Participate in ongoing training and staff development activities associated with providing employment services.

• Perform other duties and training as assigned.

Job Qualifications:

• A bachelor's degree is preferred, but equivalent education and work experience will be considered in place of a Bachelor’s degree

• Two years' experience providing services to individuals with disabilities in the areas of vocational rehabilitation is required.

• Travel is required; employees must have reliable transportation available.

• Ability to communicate effectively and present in groups.

• Knowledge of SSI/SSDI and working while on benefits a plus

• Knowledge of job expectations of performance and employee behaviors.

• Must know the local job market.

• A valid NYS Driver's license is required.