Employment & Career Services Specialist (Ames & Ankeny)

Goodwill of Central Iowa • Ankeny, IA

6d • Onsite

About The Position

The Employment & Career Services Specialist works one-on-one with individuals with disabilities to develop job skills, explore career opportunities, secure employment, and succeed in the workplace. The role provides coaching, job development, and personalized support to help participants build confidence and pursue purposeful employment.

Working throughout the Ames and Ankeny communities, the specialist partners with local employers, participants, and support teams to create employment opportunities. The position manages an assigned caseload and delivers timely, person-centered services in a variety of community-based environments and job sites.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or commensurate experience.
• At least one year of related experience.
• Must be able to travel consistently within Goodwill of Central Iowa territory to support program participants.
• Ability to pass ASPE’s Certified Employment Support Professionals (CESP) Exam within one year of employment.
• Complete four hours of continuing education yearly in Employment Services, with 24 months from the date of hire to meet the educational requirements.
• Must be able to obtain First Aid/CPR certification.
• Ability to communicate effectively in written and verbal formats and perform basic math.
• Ability to work independently.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Access to reliable transportation for regular participation in work.
• Valid Iowa Driver’s License, a good driving record, insurability, and proof of personal vehicle insurance with minimum liability coverage of $100,000 per person and $300,000 per accident.
• Must pass criminal background and dependent adult and child abuse background checks.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in human services, sociology, psychology, education, human resources, marketing, sales, or business.
• Experience coaching, teaching, mentoring, or training others.
• Experience working with individuals with disabilities.
• Experience developing employment opportunities, job coaching, workforce development, vocational rehabilitation, or employment services.

Responsibilities

• Partner with participants to develop and implement individualized employment goals and service plans.
• Provide career exploration, employment readiness, resume development, application assistance, job search support, and interview preparation.
• Build relationships with local employers to identify job opportunities and create successful employment matches.
• Conduct job development and placement activities throughout the community.
• Provide individualized job coaching, workplace training, and ongoing support after employment is obtained.
• Teach workplace expectations, professional behaviors, productivity skills, and strategies for long-term job success.
• Monitor participant progress and complete regular reviews of Individual Service Plan (ISP) goals.
• Communicate and collaborate with participants, families, guardians, employers, and support teams.
• Maintain participant records, case files, and service documentation in compliance with program, funder, HIPAA, and organizational requirements.
• Manage an assigned caseload while ensuring services are delivered in a timely, person-centered manner.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Competitive pay of $17.50–$21 per hour based on relevant experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, retirement, and paid time off.
• 5% employer retirement match after one year of employment.
• Paid time off with increases after one, two, and four years of service.
• Career development and professional certification opportunities.
• 15% employee discount at Goodwill of Central Iowa retail stores.
• Active, community-based work environment.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level