Manager, Community Employment

Aspire Chicago•Hillside, IL

About The Position

Empower Inclusive Employment. Build Community. Change Lives. At Aspire, we believe every person deserves the opportunity to work, grow, contribute, and thrive in their community. We are seeking a passionate, strategic, and people-centered Manager, Community Employment to lead innovative employment and community-based programs that create meaningful opportunities for individuals with disabilities. This is more than a management role — it’s an opportunity to shape futures, strengthen employer partnerships, and build a more inclusive workforce. The Manager, Community Employment leads Aspire’s Community Employment program, ensuring high-quality, person-centered services that help individuals achieve meaningful employment, independence, and full community participation. You’ll lead a dynamic team of Employment Specialists and Career Navigators while serving as a key connector between Aspire, employers, and the community. Your leadership will directly impact job placement success, workforce readiness, and long-term participant outcomes. If you are energized by relationship-building, leadership, innovation, and mission-driven work — we’d love to meet you.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Social Work, Psychology, Business Administration, or related field
3+ years of program management experience, preferably in disability services, employment services, or life skills supports
Previous people leadership experience
Experience building employer or community partnerships
Strong communication, organizational, and relationship-building skills
Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and willingness to obtain required

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree
CRC licensure
Experience with workforce development systems
Background in quality improvement and data-driven program management

Responsibilities

Oversee daily operations for Community Employment
Drive measurable outcomes including job placements, retention, skill development, and participant engagement
Ensure programs remain person-centered, compliant, and outcomes-focused
Use data and performance metrics to continuously improve services and efficiency
Develop strong relationships with inclusive employers across diverse industries
Create warm employment pipelines for Aspire participants
Represent Aspire at hiring fairs, workforce events, and community partnerships
Align workforce opportunities with participant strengths and labor market needs
Lead and enhance Aspire’s four-week Work Readiness Program
Ensure curriculum supports workplace skills, communication, professionalism, and self-advocacy
Support smooth transitions into employment services and long-term success
Supervise and coach Employment Specialists, Career Navigators, and related staff
Foster a collaborative, accountable, and growth-oriented culture
Support staff development, performance management, and professional learning
Ensure individualized, respectful, and coordinated services
Support teams in addressing barriers to employment and community inclusion
Serve as a leader for complex participant or service concerns