Employment & Career Services Specialist (Des Moines Metro Area)
About The Position
The Employment & Career Services Specialist works one-on-one with individuals with disabilities to help them develop job skills, explore career opportunities, secure employment, and succeed in the workplace. Through coaching, job development, and individualized support, the specialist helps participants build confidence and take steps toward purposeful employment. The role is based throughout the Des Moines Metro community and involves partnering with local employers, participants, and support teams. Work is performed in a variety of community-based environments and job sites, with responsibilities varying according to participant needs and workload. The position supports Goodwill of Central Iowa's mission of making purposeful employment possible for all.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree or commensurate experience.
- At least one year of related experience.
- Ability 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; educational requirements must be met within 24 months from the date of hire.
- 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, good driving record, insurability, and proof of personal vehicle insurance with minimum liability coverage of $100,000 per person and $300,000 per accident.
- Ability to pass a criminal background check and dependent adult and child abuse background check.
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 to $21 per hour based on relevant experience.
- Medical, dental, and vision benefits.
- Retirement plan with a 5% employer 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.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
