Employment Specialist- Hillside

Aspire Chicago•Hillside, IL

just now•Hybrid

About The Position

Employment Specialist – Empowering Inclusive Employment Join Aspire and make a lasting impact. Are you driven to help individuals reach their employment goals in inclusive, community-based settings? Do you want to support adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities as they pursue meaningful careers and thrive in the workforce? At Aspire, we’re looking for compassionate, motivated professionals to join our mission—and your work here will make a real difference. As an Employment Specialist, you will be a key member of our integrated training and employment team. You’ll provide direct support to individuals preparing for and maintaining competitive employment, while also partnering with businesses to promote inclusive workplace practices. This is more than a job—it’s an opportunity to create lasting change. Role Summary: The Employment Specialist supports adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in obtaining and retaining competitive employment in integrated community settings. You’ll assist job seekers in developing individualized employment plans, provide direct coaching and support, and help employers foster inclusive environments. You will also participate in consulting projects to expand inclusive hiring practices across industries. Make an Impact with Aspire. If you're ready to be part of a mission-driven organization that values inclusion, empowerment, and professional growth, we encourage you to apply today.

Requirements

Passion for supporting individuals with disabilities in achieving employment success.
Strong organizational and communication skills.
Experience in employment services, coaching, human services, or related field preferred.
Ability to manage multiple responsibilities and maintain detailed records.
Comfortable working independently and as part of a collaborative team.
Willingness to travel locally and provide transportation support when necessary.
High school diploma or GED
3 years of related work experience
Valid driver’s license with good driving record
Effective oral and written communication skills; ability to write reports
Ability to maintain confidential information
Ability to deal tactfully, engaging and courteously with Individuals, employees at all levels, families and the general public

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in related field preferred
Experience working with adults with intellectual and other developmental disabilities.

Responsibilities

Guide individuals through personalized job-seeking plans, including resume building, job applications, interview preparation, and networking.
Manage a caseload of job seekers and maintain accurate case documentation.
Conduct assessments to determine each individual’s skills and job match potential.
Develop and implement Individual Placement Plans tailored to client goals.
Document all activity and progress through reports, notes, and evaluations.
Collaborate with team members, referral sources, and employers.
Stay informed about local job market trends and opportunities.
Promote Aspire’s employment services to potential business and community partners.
Assist individuals in securing employment through effective job matching.
Conduct job analyses to understand workplace dynamics and expectations.
Provide ongoing support and coaching on-site, including natural supports and adaptive tools (e.g., visual aids, checklists).
Act as a liaison between employer and employee to ensure placement success.
Support individuals with transportation training and travel as needed.
Participate in inclusive employment consulting and help employers create more inclusive workplaces.
Plan for gradual fade-out of support to foster independence.
Provide long-term retention and job sustainability support.