Lead Employment Specialist

Vocational Rehabilitation Specialists, Inc. (VRSI)•Fresno, CA

2d•$26 - $32•Onsite

About The Position

Vocational Rehabilitation Specialists, Inc. (VRSI) serves military veterans through the U.S. Department of Labor's Homeless Veterans' Reintegration Program (HVRP). The Lead Employment Specialist supports daily delivery of services to veterans who are homeless or at risk of losing housing, helping them secure and maintain employment. The role manages office operations, directly supervises office staff, ensures compliance with company and U.S. Department of Labor Veterans' Employment and Training Service (DOL VETS) policies and grant requirements, and helps the office meet its grant goals. The Lead also builds relationships with employers to increase veteran hiring. The position is based in Fresno, California, and involves regular travel to VRSI's Bakersfield and Stockton offices and within the community. Travel time between work locations is paid, and mileage is reimbursed at the current federal rate. The office-based role involves routine use of standard office equipment and regular community travel. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in social work, human services, counseling, or a related field.
At least 1 year of experience in a leadership role, employment services, or a related field.
Valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and use of a personal vehicle; regular driving between offices and in the community is an essential function.
Strong understanding of challenges faced by homeless veterans.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Proficiency with job search platforms, career assessment tools, and Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Ability to build and maintain professional relationships with staff, clients, employers, and community partners.
Ability to work respectfully with individuals from all backgrounds.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with veterans or individuals experiencing homelessness is highly preferred.
Case management experience is a plus.
Knowledge of motivational interviewing or trauma-informed care.

Responsibilities

Assess veterans' skills, experience, employment barriers, and job readiness.
Develop individualized employment plans with career goals, action steps, and timelines.
Meet grant goals for veterans assessed, qualified, placed in employment, and retained.
Train veterans in resume writing, job search strategies, interview preparation, and professional conduct.
Organize and facilitate job-readiness workshops and training sessions.
Provide individual career counseling and ongoing follow-up support.
Build and maintain relationships with local employers and identify suitable job opportunities for veterans.
Assist veterans with job applications, interview preparation, and negotiating employment terms.
Supervise Employment Specialists and ensure compliance with company policy, DOL VETS policies, and grant requirements.
Manage staff schedules, attendance, and time off; approve timesheets and mileage and travel reimbursements.
Monitor quarterly office performance and staff progress toward grant goals.
Train new staff, ensure required training is completed, and conduct and document weekly office meetings.
Follow expenditure procedures and grant limits, retain supporting documentation in case files, and reconcile purchases and supplies against monthly invoices.
Maintain office equipment, keys, and supplies, and protect confidential information through secure password practices.
Maintain accurate and current client records, case notes, and employment outcomes.
Prepare and submit reports on program activities, outcomes, and grant compliance.
Collaborate with community partners to coordinate services and resources for veterans, and maintain the office outreach plan.
Represent VRSI and HVRP at community meetings, job fairs, employer panels, and networking events.
Ensure outreach staff are trained and outreach events are documented; oversee the office's social media presence and annual press release.