Employment Specialist - Full Time

RISE Services LLC • Woodbridge, VA

2d

About The Position

RISE Services seeks a compassionate, dedicated Employment Specialist to provide individualized support and guidance to individuals with disabilities or other barriers to employment. The specialist works with clients to build job-readiness skills, identify appropriate employment opportunities, and provide ongoing support for successful workplace integration and job retention. The role involves assessing clients’ strengths, interests, needs, and employment goals; developing personalized plans; assisting with job searches and applications; advocating with employers; and coaching clients on the job. The specialist also monitors and reports on client progress, cultivates relationships with employers and community organizations, participates in outreach activities, and stays current on supported-employment practices, disability rights, and vocational rehabilitation.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, counseling, human services, or a related field; relevant work experience may be considered instead of a degree.
• Experience working with individuals with disabilities, diverse populations, or other barriers to employment.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and coaching skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Knowledge of local labor-market trends, job-search strategies, and employment resources.
• Familiarity with disability-rights laws, accommodations, and vocational rehabilitation services.
• Compassionate, patient, and empathetic attitude toward clients.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.

Responsibilities

• Conduct initial assessments of clients’ skills, abilities, and employment goals.
• Collaborate with clients to develop personalized employment plans based on their strengths, interests, and needs.
• Train and support clients in job-readiness skills, including resume writing, interviewing techniques, and workplace etiquette.
• Conduct mock interviews and role-playing exercises to prepare clients for interviews and workplace interactions.
• Help clients identify appropriate job opportunities and provide guidance on job-search strategies, including networking, online job boards, and employment agencies.
• Facilitate job applications, resume submissions, and interview scheduling.
• Advocate for clients with potential employers and help negotiate job offers and accommodations as needed.
• Provide workplace support and coaching to promote successful integration and job retention.
• Assist clients with learning job tasks, adapting to the work environment, and building positive relationships with coworkers and supervisors.
• Track client progress and document employment placements, job retention, and skill development outcomes.
• Prepare regular reports on client progress and program outcomes for internal and external stakeholders.
• Build and maintain relationships with employers, community organizations, and other stakeholders to identify job opportunities and client support services.
• Participate in community events, job fairs, and networking opportunities to promote the program and recruit clients.
• Stay informed about supported-employment best practices, disability rights, and vocational rehabilitation.
• Participate in training and professional development to enhance job-coaching skills and knowledge.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• PTO accrual and holiday accrual
• Short-term disability
• Life insurance and long-term care option
• Employee Assistance Program
• Employee tenure bonuses
• Mileage reimbursement for travel with the individual in the employee’s vehicle and for client-related travel exceeding 25 miles one way

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time