Employment Specialist

Heritage Behavioral Health Center • Decatur, IL

14h • Onsite

About The Position

Heritage Behavioral Health Center is hiring passionate professionals for the role of Employment Specialist – IPS Supported Employment. This is a mission-driven Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic located in Decatur, Illinois, dedicated to improving mental health and substance use care for individuals across a multi-county area. The organization recognizes that every role contributes to client success, including helping individuals achieve meaningful employment and independence. The Employment Specialist will help individuals with mental health and/or substance use challenges obtain and maintain competitive, integrated employment aligned with their preferences. This role follows the IPS evidence-based model, emphasizing rapid job search, individualized support, and integration with clinical treatment teams. The specialist will work collaboratively with clinical staff, employers, and community partners to support individuals in achieving meaningful employment, enhancing recovery, independence, and overall quality of life.

Requirements

• Minimum high school diploma or equivalent, plus five years of experience in a social service setting is required.
• Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and proof of current insurance are required.

Nice To Haves

• Understanding of recovery principles and the role of employment in recovery
• Familiarity with the IPS Supported Employment model
• Knowledge of local labor market trends, employers, and workforce resources
• Experience working with individuals with a mental health or substance use diagnosis is preferred
• Bachelor's Degree in psychology, social work, or similar human services field, with the ability to function as a MHP, is highly recommended.

Responsibilities

• Provide individualized job development and placement services based on client preferences, strengths, and experiences.
• Support rapid job search efforts, minimizing pre-employment barriers and focusing on competitive employment.
• Develop relationships with local employers to identify job opportunities and advocate for clients.
• Assist clients with resume development, job applications, interview preparation, and job retention skills.
• Provide ongoing, individualized support to help clients maintain employment, including on-the-job coaching as needed.
• Collaborate closely with behavioral health treatment teams to integrate employment goals into overall care.
• Educate clients on how employment may impact benefits and connect them to benefits counseling as needed.
• Maintain timely, accurate documentation in accordance with IPS fidelity standards and agency requirements.
• Participate in team meetings, supervision, and IPS fidelity reviews to ensure high-quality service delivery.

Benefits

• 56 paid days off annually
• Every other Friday off (paid wellness day)
• Competitive salaries
• Loan forgiveness eligibility through NHSC
• Vacation, sick, personal, and holiday leave
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Fitness reimbursement
• Health, dental, vision, flex spending accounts (healthcare and dependent care), and additional life insurance.
• Health insurance includes substantial agency contributions toward the cost.
• 401(k) and Roth retirement plans
• Tuition assistance and continuing education opportunities

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree