Supported Employment Specialist - CSS

KANZA MENTAL HEALTH AND GUIDANCE CENTER INC•Hiawatha, KS

11d

About The Position

POSITION PURPOSE: The Case Manager – Supported Employment is responsible for providing employment services to individuals with serious mental illness using the Individual Placement & Support (IPS) model to help clients obtain and maintain competitive employment. This role is split between the ACT Treatment Team (0.5 FTE) and the Community Support Services Team (0.5 FTE). The Case Manager delivers community-based employment support with the goal of promoting client independence, enhancing quality of life, and reducing the impact of mental health symptoms on work ability. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: Assessment and Planning Ensure employment referrals are completed promptly. Conduct assessments to identify individuals’ vocational goals, strengths, and barriers. Develop personalized employment plans based on individual needs and aspirations using a strengths-based approach. Job Development Establish and maintain relationships with local employers to identify job opportunities. Train community members, providers, and employers on the IPS evidence-based model. Customize job searches to align with individuals’ skills and preferences. Obtain SOAR certification to assist clients with disability and benefits applications, and provide support regarding benefits information. Job Coaching and Support Provide on-the-job support and coaching for individuals with mental health conditions. Educate clients on their rights and responsibilities as employees. Help clients develop and enhance workplace skills, adapt to job responsibilities, and secure necessary accommodations. Assist with job search, interview preparation, and workplace integration. Transport clients as needed for employment-related activities or visits to social service agencies. Advocacy Advocate for individuals with mental health conditions to promote equal employment opportunities. Collaborate with employers to create inclusive and supportive work environments. Documentation and Reporting Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of client progress and employment activities. Prepare regular reports on program outcomes and successes. Collect and report program data. Uphold the eight Core Principles of IPS and ensure appropriate population screening for support and services. Networking Collaborate with mental health professionals, vocational rehabilitation agencies, and community organizations to expand employment opportunities. Attend workshops, conferences, and meetings to remain informed about best practices in employment services. Additional Responsibilities / Essentials Maintain full understanding of HIPAA privacy laws and ensure client confidentiality. Assist with crisis planning and provide crisis intervention as appropriate. Provide coverage for crisis intervention services, including potential evening or weekend hours. Participate in the ACT Crisis On-Call rotation, responding to client crises by phone as scheduled, collaborating with the Crisis Team, documenting interactions, and ensuring continuity of care. Disclaimer: The statements herein describe the scope of responsibilities and essential functions of this position but are not an all-inclusive listing of work requirements. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned, including cross-training or coverage to manage workload peaks or staff absences.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, or a related field, or four years of relevant experience in a behavioral health setting.
Knowledge of evidence-based practices for individuals with serious persistent mental illness (SPMI) or serious emotional disturbance (SED).
Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
Strong communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills.
Valid driver’s license and access to reliable transportation.
Must obtain SOAR certification within six months of employment.
Complete IPS training certification within six months of employment.

Responsibilities

Ensure employment referrals are completed promptly.
Conduct assessments to identify individuals’ vocational goals, strengths, and barriers.
Develop personalized employment plans based on individual needs and aspirations using a strengths-based approach.
Establish and maintain relationships with local employers to identify job opportunities.
Train community members, providers, and employers on the IPS evidence-based model.
Customize job searches to align with individuals’ skills and preferences.
Obtain SOAR certification to assist clients with disability and benefits applications, and provide support regarding benefits information.
Provide on-the-job support and coaching for individuals with mental health conditions.
Educate clients on their rights and responsibilities as employees.
Help clients develop and enhance workplace skills, adapt to job responsibilities, and secure necessary accommodations.
Assist with job search, interview preparation, and workplace integration.
Transport clients as needed for employment-related activities or visits to social service agencies.
Advocate for individuals with mental health conditions to promote equal employment opportunities.
Collaborate with employers to create inclusive and supportive work environments.
Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of client progress and employment activities.
Prepare regular reports on program outcomes and successes.
Collect and report program data.
Uphold the eight Core Principles of IPS and ensure appropriate population screening for support and services.
Collaborate with mental health professionals, vocational rehabilitation agencies, and community organizations to expand employment opportunities.
Attend workshops, conferences, and meetings to remain informed about best practices in employment services.
Maintain full understanding of HIPAA privacy laws and ensure client confidentiality.
Assist with crisis planning and provide crisis intervention as appropriate.
Provide coverage for crisis intervention services, including potential evening or weekend hours.
Participate in the ACT Crisis On-Call rotation, responding to client crises by phone as scheduled, collaborating with the Crisis Team, documenting interactions, and ensuring continuity of care.