Employment Specialist

Mercy Housing & Shelter Corp•Hartford, CT

98d•$0 - $23•Onsite

About The Position

The Employment Specialist supports My Sisters’ Place’s mission to end homelessness and empower women, families, and others in Greater Hartford to achieve independence and stability through housing and supportive services. The role provides employment and vocational services to program participants in a medium-sized, multicultural nonprofit organization operating in a computerized, multi-funded, recovery- and trauma-care-oriented environment. The Employment Specialist works with agency leadership, program staff, funders, vendors, volunteers, and the individuals and families served. The position is scheduled Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with flexibility for nights and weekends required. It is based at 76 Pliny Street, Hartford, Connecticut.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Human Services, or a related field.
At least two years of experience in mental health or a related field.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to work independently, make decisions, and multitask.
Ability to function collaboratively as a team member.
Creative, solution-oriented problem-solving skills.
Basic to advanced computer skills.
Sense of urgency and a positive attitude.
Valid driver’s license, clean driving record, proof of current automobile insurance, reliable transportation, and a vehicle.

Responsibilities

Conduct Job Club, employment assessments, job placement, job development, and follow-along services for program participants.
Provide professional leadership in organizing, administering, supervising, and evaluating participants’ vocational needs.
Develop new resources or identify existing resources to create new work sites and other resources.
Develop an individual employment plan with each tenant and update it quarterly.
Coordinate individualized job development and job-search activities based on tenants’ interests and needs, and conduct related workshops.
Provide follow-along support to help clients maintain employment.
Assist with and direct resume writing and job searches, particularly during computer lab hours at Shay.
Establish computer lab hours so tenants can use computers for job searches, resumes, and related activities; teach tenants how to use employment websites, upload resumes, and apply for jobs online.
Maintain current records, logs, and files, and complete reports and correspondence as necessary.
Liaise with other agencies, including CT Works, the Chamber of Commerce, Metro Alliance, and other social and vocational agencies, to advocate for and assist tenants.
Help maintain a clean and safe environment, including staff areas and agency vehicles.
Attend and participate in meetings, conferences, seminars, and training as appropriate.
Participate in planning activities for clients, programs, and the agency.
Perform other duties as assigned.