Employment Specialist - FCS FHARPs

Comprehensive Life Resources•Tacoma, WA

55d•$22 - $30•Onsite

About The Position

Comprehensive Life Resources is seeking an Employment Specialist for its Housing team in Tacoma, Washington. The role provides community-based case management and support through the Foundational Community Support (FCS) program. The Employment Specialist assists people from the Fharps and Global Horizons programs who face employment barriers related to chronic homelessness, substance use, mental illness, chronic physical illness, or justice involvement to obtain and maintain jobs aligned with their vocational goals. The position builds relationships with employers, local businesses, social service agencies, and other community partners. Work includes negotiating with employers, generating job leads, managing participant and employer relationships, and providing job development, skill-building, and vocational support. The role is full-time, Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with travel within the community. The listed hourly salary range is $21.75 to $29.67. Additional compensation may include shift differentials, stipends, and/or longevity pay. Benefits are contingent on working a scheduled 40 hours per week.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
WA State credential or ability to become credentialed.
If the role requires driving, a valid driver’s license, proof of insurance, and a working vehicle are required.
Proficiency in common Microsoft applications.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to prioritize deadlines, work independently, take initiative, and maintain confidentiality.
Ability to complete paperwork within required timeframes and meet content requirements.
Ability to meet weekly client service provisions (hours of service).
Willingness to understand and respect diverse backgrounds and commitment to culturally competent practice.
Ethical decision-making skills and appropriate boundaries.
Openness to feedback, accountability, and contribution to a positive work environment.
Ability to develop and maintain a self-care plan, including seeking supervision when needed.
Ability to seek out and learn about community supports and resources for assigned clients.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in social services, such as psychology, behavioral science, sociology, human services, or vocational rehabilitation.
At least one year of experience in human services, mental health, sales, or a related field.
Knowledge of educational processes and housing opportunities.

Responsibilities

Build trusting, collaborative relationships with clients focused on competitive employment in community job settings.
Help clients obtain information about benefits, including SSI and Medicaid, and make informed decisions about employment opportunities.
Complete vocational assessments and develop individual employment and/or education plans with clients; coordinate goals with treatment teams.
Provide individualized follow-along support to help clients maintain employment.
Receive training in and use Motivational Interviewing and other evidence-based practices.
Connect clients with internal and external supports and services.
Attend or facilitate treatment team meetings, staff meetings, and assigned staff training and consultation sessions.
Maintain ethical and professional standards by following CLR policies and seeking regular consultation.
Participate in clinical supervision and training for continued professional growth.
Build and maintain relationships with employers, local businesses, social service agencies, and other community partners; negotiate with employers, generate leads, and manage participant/employer relations.
Provide job development, skill-building, and vocational support.