Case Manager/Employment Specialist

Vocational Rehabilitation Specialists, Inc. (VRSI)•Clearwater, FL

4d•$22 - $27

About The Position

Vocational Rehabilitation Specialists, Inc. (VRSI) is hiring a Case Manager/Employment Specialist for its U.S. Department of Labor Homeless Veterans' Reintegration Program (HVRP). The role supports veterans experiencing or at risk of homelessness in finding and retaining employment. The specialist guides veterans from initial contact and eligibility screening through job readiness, training, placement, and follow-up, while connecting them with supportive services. The goal is stable, livable-wage employment in in-demand occupations. Work is split between the office and the field, with frequent local travel to outreach sites, partner agencies, employers, and community events. Outreach may take place outdoors and in unsheltered settings, including streets and encampments. Occasional evening or weekend outreach is required. The work can be fast-paced and emotionally demanding. Reliable transportation and use of a personal vehicle are required; mileage is reimbursed at the current federal rate.

Requirements

Associate's degree in social work, human services, counseling, or a related field; relevant experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
At least 2 years of experience in workforce development, employment services, or a related field.
Reliable transportation and use of a personal vehicle to perform essential job functions.
Valid driver's license.
Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills, including the ability to communicate with groups and employers.
Strong organization and attention to detail, with the ability to manage a caseload and deadlines.
Ability to work independently, make sound decisions, and collaborate with clients, employers, and community partners.
Proficiency with job search platforms, career assessment tools, case management databases, and Microsoft Office Suite.
Empathetic, veteran-centered approach and willingness to learn and apply best practices.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with veterans or homeless populations (highly preferred).
Strong understanding of challenges faced by homeless veterans, including the needs of women veterans and justice-involved veterans.
Experience in job development, employer relations, or case management.
Bachelor's degree in social work, human services, business, or a related field.

Responsibilities

Assess veterans' skills, work history, interests, and employment barriers.
Develop and update personal employment plans with veterans, including goals, next steps, and timelines.
Meet federal grant goals for veterans assessed, enrolled, placed in jobs, and retained after placement.
Screen interested veterans for program eligibility and enroll those who qualify.
Teach resume writing, job search strategies, interview preparation, and professional conduct; plan and lead job-readiness workshops and group training.
Provide individual career counseling and information about local jobs and training opportunities.
Follow up regularly with veterans and refer them to appropriate job training programs, tracking their progress.
Build relationships with local employers and identify suitable job opportunities for veterans.
Help veterans apply for jobs, prepare for interviews, and negotiate pay and job terms.
Maintain contact with veterans after hiring and help resolve problems that could put employment at risk.
Understand employers' hiring needs and explain the benefits of hiring veterans, including available tax credits.
Attend job fairs, employer panels, and networking events.
Maintain accurate, current, and confidential client records, case notes, and job outcomes.
Prepare and submit regular reports on program activities, outcomes, and grant requirements.
Coordinate with community partners, veteran service organizations, housing providers, employers, and others to share resources and build referral networks.
Connect veterans with support services such as housing, transportation, mental health and substance use treatment, and legal aid.
Represent VRSI at community meetings, veteran groups, job fairs, homeless-veteran outreach events, and similar activities.
Identify service gaps, advocate for improved support, and conduct in-person outreach at partner sites, shelters, encampments, and other locations where veterans may be found.