Employment Support Specialist

Thresholds • Chicago, IL

2d

About The Position

The Employment Support Specialist helps individuals experiencing mental illness make progress toward employment goals that reflect their interests and strengths. The role uses the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) model, an evidence-based practice for people with severe and persistent diagnosed mental illness. The specialist works with clients to identify employment preferences, develop plans, reduce employment barriers, and build skills for obtaining and maintaining work. This includes support with interviews, resumes and cover letters, communication with employers, transportation barriers, and related employment tasks. The specialist documents clients’ employment progress and provides mentorship and follow-along support after clients are hired.

The specialist also networks with local employers to increase employment opportunities for Thresholds clients. This work may include developing relationships with hiring managers, advocating for clients, negotiating accommodations, and maintaining contact to support job retention. The role involves collaboration with the specialist’s team and clinical teams to coordinate client care and address challenges. Training and professional development opportunities cover IPS principles, harm reduction, trauma-informed care, and other clinical best practices, with clinical supervision available. The position is based in the Lakeview area of Chicago and includes providing transportation to clients.

Requirements

• Passion for mental health advocacy.
• Strong communication, time management, and organizational skills.
• Valid driver’s license, current car insurance, and a car for daily use.
• Willingness to provide transportation to clients.
• Availability to work in the Lakeview area of Chicago.
• Eligible education and experience paths include a high school diploma or GED and several years of workforce experience, a bachelor’s degree, or a master’s degree.

Responsibilities

• Help clients identify employment goals aligned with their interests and strengths and develop plans to achieve them.
• Support clients in addressing employment barriers and developing skills for obtaining and maintaining employment, including interview preparation, resume and cover letter creation, employer communication, and transportation planning.
• Document clients’ employment progress.
• Mentor clients before and after they obtain employment and provide follow-along support to help them maintain employment.
• Network with local employers to increase job opportunities for Thresholds clients.
• Build relationships with hiring managers, advocate for clients, and negotiate accommodations on clients’ behalf.
• Collaborate with team members and clinical teams to coordinate client care and discuss challenges.
• Provide transportation to clients.

Benefits

• Competitive pay of $22.80–$25.63 per hour ($47,424–$53,300 annually), subject to increase based on education and experience.
• Generous paid time off, including 9 federal holidays, 8 days of sick leave, and 15–22 personal and vacation days.
• Dental insurance.
• Vision insurance.
• Four medical insurance plans.
• 403(b) retirement plan with 3% employer match.
• Employee assistance program (EAP).
• Mileage reimbursement.
• Public service loan forgiveness.
• Cell phone reimbursement up to $50 per month.
• Clinical licensure supervision at no cost for LSW, LCSW, LPC, and LCPC.
• Reimbursement for professional licensure and license renewal.
• Ongoing training and professional development.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED