Vocational Services Specialist

The Educational Alliance Inc.•New York, NY

1d•$0 - $27•Onsite

About The Position

Educational Alliance brings together and partners with diverse communities in Lower Manhattan, offering individuals and families high-quality, multi-generational programs and services that enhance their well-being and socioeconomic opportunities. We are a place where everyone is welcome and where progress is powered one relationship at a time. We are proud of our legacy as a Jewish organization, and we provide high-quality, transformational services and programs to all New Yorkers through our network of community centers on Manhattan’s Lower East Side and East Village. As we have for 130 years, we offer best-in-class programming–now across 15 sites—focusing on a mix of education, health and wellness, arts and culture, and civic engagement. The Center for Recovery and Wellness takes a holistic, strengths-based approach to recovery and wellness that responds to the distinct needs of each individual. Programs include residential and outpatient addiction treatment, recovery services, prevention education, and community programming. CRW offers culturally competent, evidence-based programs and services that strengthen individuals and communities, enhance resiliency, and foster lasting recovery We are seeking a full-time Vocational Services Specialist who will be responsible for coordinating vocational rehabilitation and other employment-related services for a 100-bed residential, trauma informed, modified therapeutic community for residents being treated for substance use disorder. Services provided are individual and group counseling, referring clients to employment and skills based training services, legal services, and budgeting.

Requirements

Master’s Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling or Counseling, CRC Preferred
Experience working with individuals with substance use disorders
Knowledge of workforce development systems and employment services
Demonstrated experience in job placement, counseling, or case management
Knowledge of labor market trends and workforce systems
Access VR credential or experience
One year of experience in career counseling of clients with substance abuse disorders
Knowledge of strengths-based counseling, cognitive behavioral treatment and behavior modification in practice
Weekend availability required.
Ability to multitask and handle challenging situations in a professional and courteous manner
Ability to work professionally and empathetically with a diverse group of clients and staff.
Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing with a broad variety of people, including other team members and management.
Ability to maintain appropriate professional boundaries and confidentiality.
competency with computer based programs such as Microsoft Word, Outlook email, Relias, and Electronic Health records

Responsibilities

Conduct employment readiness and vocational assessments for all new clients
Develop person-centered employment and career plans
Deliver ongoing 1:1 counseling and group vocational sessions
Provide resume development, application support, and interview preparation
Facilitate job matching and placement activities
Conduct post-placement follow-ups at 6-day, 30, 60, and 90-day milestones
Build and maintain relationships with local employers across industries
Establish and document new employer partnerships each quarter
Conduct outreach and business engagement activities
Educate employers on recovery-friendly workplace practices
Collaborate with OASAS job development resources and statewide initiatives
Deliver services across all OASAS-certified programs in Manhattan
Provide on-site or virtual services to partner agencies
Coordinate with clinical and case management teams for integrated care
Participate in monthly meetings with the OASAS Technical Assistance Liaison
Attend required OASAS trainings and align with statewide workforce strategies
Maintain client-level tracking of services and outcomes
Complete required monthly OASAS reporting, including: Job assessments completed, Job search activities, Job placements and retention outcomes, Employer engagement activities
Ensure all reporting uses unique identifiers (no PII)
Maintain compliance with grant deliverables and data collection standards
Maintain compliance with: 42 CFR Part 2 confidentiality requirements, HIPAA and OASAS regulations
Ensure services are non-duplicative of other OASAS-funded vocational services
Participate in supervision and professional development activities
Maintain documentation aligned with audit and CFR reporting requirements
Attend weekly staff meetings
Attend training as required
Perform special projects and other duties as assigned