Supported Employment & Engagement Specialist - First Episode Psychosis Clinic

Mahec•Asheville, NC

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The Supported Employment & Engagement Specialist (SEES) helps young people experiencing a first episode of psychosis pursue meaningful employment, education, and career goals as part of their recovery. Working as a member of an evidence-based Coordinated Specialty Care (CSC) team, this role partners with individuals to identify their strengths, interests, and aspirations while providing individualized support to obtain and maintain competitive employment or educational opportunities.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, rehabilitation counseling, human services, or a related field
1 year of experience in supported employment, vocational rehabilitation, career counseling, or a related behavioral health or human services role
Experience working with individuals with mental illness, substance use disorder, or related behavioral health needs
Able to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing required.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications
Effective oral and written communication and interpersonal skills
Effective time management skills and ability to work under pressure
Exceptional organization skills and attention to detail
Valid driver’s license and ability to operate MAHEC vehicles and be covered under MAHEC insurance.
IPS Certification required within 6 months of hire per EPI-NC Fidelity Standard

Nice To Haves

Experience working with young adults with serious mental illness or first episode psychosis
Familiarity with the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) model
CPR, First Aid, NCI

Responsibilities

Build trusting, person-centered relationships with individuals and families to support recovery-oriented employment and educational goals, using a strengths-based, collaborative approach.
Offer services to all enrolled clients regardless of symptom severity or perceived readiness, consistent with the IPS "no exclusions" philosophy.
Deliver evidence-based Supported Employment and Education services using the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) model, including career profile assessments, disclosure discussions, and a "place then train" approach that prioritizes rapid engagement in competitive employment or mainstream education aligned with client preferences.
Maintain required IPS certification.
Provide individualized vocational and educational coaching across all phases: job exploration, career planning, school enrollment, financial aid, resume development, interview preparation, benefits counseling, and ongoing follow-along support.
Identify academic accommodations and school-based resources for clients pursuing education.
Conduct active community outreach, dedicating a minimum of 20% of FTE to developing relationships with local employers, colleges, vocational programs, and community partners to expand opportunities for clients.
Collaborate fully as a member of the multidisciplinary FEP team, participating in weekly team meetings and daily huddles, contributing to treatment planning, and integrating vocational and educational goals into each client's individualized wellness plan.
Advocate for workplace and academic accommodations and connect individuals with community resources, including NC Vocational Rehabilitation, to support sustained participation in meaningful roles as a core component of early psychosis recovery.
Maintain timely documentation, manage a caseload of at least 15 active clients per FTE, and participate in all required EPI-NC Learning Healthcare Network activities, including Project ECHO sessions, role-specific consultation calls, and fidelity monitoring.