Employment Specialist

The Kennedy Collective Inc•Bridgeport, CT

About The Position

If you are looking to make an impact through a meaningful and rewarding career, we are currently seeking talented, creative, and committed people who share our values of Challenging the Status Quo, Building Community, Creating Purpose, and Ensuring Inclusion by fostering individuals’ development, well-being, and growth. The Employment Specialist serves as a dedicated advocate and subject matter expert for individuals with disabilities navigating their employment journey. This role provides comprehensive, person-centered support across the full employment continuum—from initial intake and career planning through job development, on-the-job training, benefits navigation, and long-term work-life sustainability. Operating as an active member of an integrated, multidisciplinary team, the Employment Specialist collaborates with clinicians, vocational rehabilitation counselors, case managers, social workers, and other support providers to ensure each job seeker receives coordinated, holistic services designed to help them obtain, maintain, and advance in meaningful employment.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Vocational Rehabilitation, Marketing, Business, Human Services, or a closely related field required.
Minimum of 1–2 years of experience in supported employment, vocational rehabilitation, sales, community outreach, or a related field.
Demonstrated experience developing employer relationships, conducting community presentations, or performing outreach activities.
Experience working with individuals with disabilities, mental health conditions, or other complex needs strongly preferred.
Knowledge of SSA benefits programs and work incentives preferred; willingness to obtain training required.
Strong interpersonal, communication, and relationship-building skills.
Ability to engage and motivate diverse populations with empathy and professionalism.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams) and comfort navigating online resources and databases.
Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage a dynamic caseload.
Self-directed, resourceful, and capable of working independently in a community-based setting.
Public speaking and presentation skills for employer and community engagement.
Valid driver's license with a clean driving record; personal vehicle required.
Ability to transport individuals to and from job sites, interviews, and community appointments.
Ability to travel regularly throughout the service area, including visits to state facilities and employer locations.
Ability to pass required background checks in accordance with state and organizational requirements.
Flexibility in schedule to accommodate job seeker and employer needs, which may occasionally include early morning or evening activities.

Nice To Haves

Preferred certifications Certified Employment Support Professional – CESP, Community Partner Work Incentives Counseling-CPWIC.
Experience working with individuals with disabilities, mental health conditions, or other complex needs strongly preferred.
Knowledge of SSA benefits programs and work incentives preferred; willingness to obtain training required.