Employment Specialist (Supported Employment)

Cascadia Health • Portland, OR

23d • $26 - $28

About The Position

The Employment Specialist supports individuals who are enrolled in mental health outpatient programs in obtaining and maintaining employment, while supporting a Trauma Informed Care environment. With the high prevalence of trauma among individuals receiving mental health services, it is required the Employment Specialist understand the effects of trauma on health, coping, and other aspects of the lives of those we serve. The Employment Specialist is responsible for all areas of employment including job development, career exploration, employment preparation, assistance in finding employment and job retention. This position utilizes rehabilitative clinical practices and will work with other service providers in helping the client develop, establish and maintain employment.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a behavioral science field from an accredited college or university or three years of full-time professional experience providing direct service to individuals in a social service setting.
• Demonstrate the competencies to become credentialed as a Qualified Mental Health Associate (QMHA), as outlined in the Oregon Administrative Rulings (OARs). Certification must be kept current and in compliance with OARs through MHACBO.
• Six (6) months of prior experience working as a Job Coach or Developer,
• A bachelor’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling or Special Education,
• One (1) year of documented experience working with individuals with disabilities,
• Certified Employment Supported Professional (CESP) certificate,
• Completion of the Association of People Supporting Employment First (APSE) collaborative training,
• Association of Community Rehabilitation Educators (ACRE) training certificate, or
• One (1) year of human-services related experience, such as economical disadvantages, employment, abuse and neglect, substance abuse, aging, disabilities, prevention, health, cultural competencies, or housing.
• Must understand recovery model, motivational interviewing, illness management and recovery, evidence based practices, and strength based case management philosophies and strategies.
• Proficient in operating computer hardware and software (including EMR software).
• Ability to enter and retrieve data and to prepare simple reports.
• Possess a valid drivers license, three-year driving history; clean driving record, ability to pass Driver Motor Vehicle (DMV) check and complete the Cascadia online Defensive Driving course.
• Must have access to a personal vehicle.

Nice To Haves

• Experience working with individuals with disabilities or human service related experience is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive assessments of clients’ vocational skills, interests, and goals.
• Develop individualized employment plans in collaboration with clients, identifying strengths, barriers, and support needs.
• Provide vocational counseling, job coaching, and skill-building workshops to enhance clients’ employability.
• Facilitate job readiness training, including resume writing, interview preparation, and workplace etiquette.
• Act as a liaison between clients and potential employers, advocating for inclusive hiring practices and reasonable accommodations.
• Coordinate job placements and monitor clients’ progress in their employment placements.
• Collaborate with community agencies, vocational rehabilitation programs, and educational institutions to expand job opportunities for clients.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Comply with laws, regulations, policies, and procedures under which the program and company operates.
• Assist in crisis situations as appropriate following protocols and procedures in coordination with the treatment team.
• Respect and honor client rights and responsibilities and demonstrate professional boundaries and ethics.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date documentation that ensures compliance with all agency policies and procedures and local, state, and federal regulations, and billing requirements.
• Understand safety regulations and evacuation procedures; participate in regular safety drills in compliance with program policies and procedures.
• Complete annual employee training in compliance with program and company requirements.
• Provide guidance, support, and training to other staff in alignment with company mission and values.
• Participate in all scheduled staff meetings, supervision sessions, and other departmental and company meetings.

Benefits

• Generous Paid Time Off Package
• Full-time employees earn 6 weeks of PTO in their first year!
• Medical and Dental Coverage (begins 1st of the month following 30 days after hire date)
• VSP Vision Discount Plan
• 403(B) Retirement Savings (Pre and post-tax plans with up to 8% employer matching contribution!)
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) (Medical, dependent care, and transportation options)
• Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, and Life Insurance
• Paid Bereavement and Jury Duty Leave
• Length of Service Award
• Voluntary Life Insurance
• Supplemental Insurance
• Student loan forgiveness options
• Wellness Benefits:
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Bicycle Reimbursement
• Discounted Fitness Memberships
• Trauma Support Team

What This Job Offers

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