Employment Specialist
About The Position
The Employment Specialist partners with clients to help them obtain competitive employment. Reporting to the Director of Employment Services, this role provides individualized employment support and high-quality customer service while demonstrating cross-cultural awareness and contributing to an equitable, inclusive, and anti-racist organizational culture. The position is hybrid, with four days in the office and one day remote. It requires a flexible schedule that includes evenings, weekends, and holidays, and travel by public transportation to program sites and other locations. Urban Pathways supports unhoused adults in New York City, helping people discover their strengths and abilities through essential support and services. The Employment Specialist works with clients to develop employment plans, address employment-related needs, and build workplace skills. The role also involves coordinating with the Director of Employment Services, maintaining records and reports, participating in meetings and training, and connecting with community services and resources.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree required.
- At least two years of experience working with people living with mental health conditions; experience with formerly homeless people preferred.
- Experience developing and running psycho-educational groups.
- Experience providing vocational or employment counseling to people facing barriers to employment required.
- Strong computer skills and knowledge of Microsoft Office, including Word, Outlook, and Excel.
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work as part of a team.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to travel by public transportation to and from various program sites and other locations.
- Ability to work a flexible schedule that includes weekends, holidays, and evenings.
Nice To Haves
- Bachelor’s degree in Social Work or another related field.
- Experience with formerly homeless people.
- Experience with job development, supportive employment, and the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) model.
- Familiarity with online chart record databases such as AWARDS.
- Bilingual English/Spanish.
Responsibilities
- Work with clients to develop employment plans suited to their aptitude, education, physical ability, and career goals.
- Work with the Director of Employment Services to generate appropriate employment opportunities for clients.
- Assist clients with resumes, cover letters, job applications, and interview techniques.
- Provide counseling, support, and feedback regarding workplace issues.
- Monitor computer labs and help clients learn computer applications, including Microsoft Office.
- Conduct field work, including accompanying clients to job interviews.
- Maintain and submit documents and reports required by Urban Pathways and regulatory and funding agency policies, procedures, and regulations.
- Attend staff meetings, trainings, and supervisory sessions as required.
- Develop and maintain relationships with community services and resources.
- Perform other duties as assigned and required.
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
- 403(b) plan and 401(a) plan with an annual employer contribution.
- Paid time off, including vacation, holidays, and personal days.
- Professional development and continuous learning opportunities.
- Flexible work arrangements.
- Employee wellness programs, including fitness initiatives and mental health support.
- Employee Assistance Program offering confidential counseling and support.
- Employee recognition programs.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
