Employment Specialist Sarasota & Manatee

Bailes Consulting Services•Manatee, FL

6d•Hybrid

About The Position

We are seeking an experienced, compassionate, and motivated Employment Specialist (fee-for-service, commission-based independent contractor) to join our team in Sarasota & Manatee Counties. The ideal candidate will have experience working in a public Vocational Rehabilitation and/or workforce development setting serving individuals with disabilities, along with a genuine passion for helping people achieve meaningful and competitive employment. This role requires someone who is person-centered, self-motivated, and dedicated to empowering individuals to reach their vocational goals while meeting the guidelines and standards of Vocational Rehabilitation. This position is a 1099 independent contractor, fee-for-service role and is not salary or hourly based. Full-time and part-time opportunities are available.

Requirements

Four years of proven experience in a public vocational rehabilitation and/or workforce development setting working with individuals with disabilities, including responsibilities in job coaching and job placement for individuals with disabilities while fostering workforce skill development; ensuring active engagement, and advancing workforce outcomes through advocacy and tailored support plans that result in competitive integrated employment.
A Master’s Degree in fields such as rehabilitation, counseling, social work, psychology, exceptional education, teaching certificate K-12 ESE, human resources, business administration, economics, from an accredited college or university, and one (1) year experience as described above.
A Bachelor’s Degree in fields such as rehabilitation, counseling, social work, psychology, exceptional education, teaching certificate K-12 ESE, human resources, business administration, or economics, from an accredited college or university, and two years’ experience as described above.
An associate's degree from an accredited college or university, or a bachelor's or master's Degree in an unrelated field, and three years’ experience as described above.
Applicants selected to move forward in the hiring process will participate in two interviews.
In accordance with Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) requirements, all candidates considered for hire must provide an updated and detailed resume; copies of all applicable degree(s) and college transcripts; two professional references; and complete all onboarding paperwork.
Applicants will also be required to review VR guidelines and complete a short quiz as part of the pre-employment process.
Once all required documents and materials have been received, candidates will be subject to final approval by Vocational Rehabilitation.
Applicants who are not currently Supported Employment certified must complete the required certification training within 90 days of their start date.

Nice To Haves

Professionalism
Strong communication skills
Knowledge of workforce development practices
A commitment to serving individuals with disabilities with dignity, respect, and encouragement.

Responsibilities

Assisting participants with job search activities, including resume development, interview preparation, and completing employment applications.
Working closely with individuals with disabilities to identify their strengths, career goals, abilities, and workplace preferences.
Developing and maintaining strong relationships with local employers to create competitive employment opportunities.
Providing job coaching, on-site support, and follow-along services to support successful employment outcomes and long-term job retention.
Documenting participant progress and maintaining accurate records in compliance with Vocational Rehabilitation and industry standards.
Educating employers on disability inclusion, workplace accommodations, and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Supporting both employers and participants to foster positive workplace relationships and long-term employment success.
Collaborating with Vocational Rehabilitation counselors, community partners, and service providers to ensure quality participant services.