Employment Specialist: Substance Use & Mental Health Focus

Ability Beyond • Norwalk, CT

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About The Position

The Employment Specialist supports individuals with substance use and mental health needs in finding and maintaining meaningful employment. Through person-centered on-the-job coaching and individualized placement, the role helps people build work readiness, job skills, self-esteem, confidence, independence, and workplace success. The specialist provides guidance with goal setting, resumes, interview preparation, and soft skills, while partnering with employers and community organizations to create inclusive, recovery-friendly opportunities. The position also includes ongoing follow-up, encouragement, advocacy, accurate documentation, and follow-up visits.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in psychology, human services, or a related field, or relevant experience.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable vehicle.
• Strong communication, advocacy, and networking skills.

Responsibilities

• Support individuals in building work readiness, job skills, and self-esteem through person-centered on-the-job coaching and individualized placement.
• Provide guidance in goal setting, resume building, interview preparation, and developing soft skills that promote emotional well-being and workplace success.
• Partner with employers and community organizations to create inclusive, recovery-friendly employment opportunities.
• Offer consistent follow-up, encouragement, and advocacy to help individuals maintain employment and stability.
• Identify job opportunities, develop soft skills, and network with different departments or companies.
• Complete required documentation accurately and conduct follow-up visits to ensure success.

Benefits

• Extensive paid training and certification program.
• Generous benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and pet insurance.
• Paid time off that increases over years of service.
• Self-directed retirement plan options (403B).
• PSLF loan forgiveness eligibility.
• Access to an Employee Assistance Program including mental health resources.
• Ongoing diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging initiatives.

What This Job Offers

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