Vocational Supportive Employment Manager

Sparc•Springfield, MO

About The Position

The Vocational Supportive Employment Manager is responsible for the overall leadership, administration, and performance of Sparc’s Supportive Employment Program. This position provides strategic oversight of vocational services, supervises Vocational Supportive Employment Supervisors, and ensures program effectiveness, regulatory compliance, and high-quality employment outcomes for individuals with disabilities. The Manager plays a key role in program development, staff leadership, community partnerships, and continuous quality improvement while advancing Sparc’s mission of inclusion, independence, and competitive integrated employment.

Requirements

Strong leadership and program management skills.
Ability to analyze data, manage budgets, and improve service outcomes.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
Advanced problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
Knowledge of supportive employment models and disability services.
Proficiency with documentation systems, Microsoft Office, and compliance requirements.
Bachelor’s degree in human services, Business, Social Work, or related field preferred.
Minimum of three (3) years supervisory or management experience required.
Must be at least 18 years old.
Valid Illinois Driver’s License, reliable transportation, and insurance required.
Ability to work flexible hours and travel to program and employment sites.
Experience working in a physically demanding position, including the ability to lift, push, and pull up to 50 lbs frequently, the ability to bend, stoop, twist, turn, squat, climb stairs, walk, and stand stationary.
Must possess the ability to physically manage any special needs of individuals supported by Sparc, including the ability to lift and transfer supported persons as needed and the ability to assist program staff in emergencies.

Nice To Haves

Experience overseeing employment, vocational, or disability-related programs preferred.
Demonstrated ability to lead supervisors and multidisciplinary teams.

Responsibilities

Provide overall management of the Supportive Employment Program, ensuring alignment with Sparc’s mission, strategic goals, and regulatory requirements.
Directly supervise Vocational Supportive Employment Supervisors, providing coaching, performance management, training support, and leadership development.
Develop, implement, and evaluate program initiatives to improve employment outcomes, service quality, and operational efficiency.
Ensure compliance with Individual Implementation Strategies (IS), vocational rehabilitation standards, licensing requirements, billing accuracy, and documentation standards.
Oversee employer engagement strategies, cultivate community partnerships, secure job opportunities and support supervisors in maintaining strong relationships with local businesses and stakeholders.
Provide oversight and guidance related to Individual Employment Plans (IEPs), funding applications, and progress toward competitive integrated employment outcomes.
Ensure supervisors and staff receive ongoing training related to supportive employment best practices, job coaching strategies, and workplace integration.
Monitor employment metrics, billable service requirements, and program outcomes; prepare reports and recommendations for leadership review.
Ensure employment sites and program operations meet health, safety, and risk management standards.
Oversee staffing plans, scheduling practices, and resource utilization to ensure program coverage, fiscal responsibility, and compliance with labor regulations.
May provide or support direct services in emergency or coverage situations, including personal care and behavioral support, as required.
Demonstrates exemplary performance, professionalism, confidentiality, dependability, and adherence to Sparc’s policies and core values.
Ensure the completion of weekly billing, and compliance with applicable vocational rehabilitation standards, licensing, and program requirements, while providing a minimum of 15 (Fifteen) billable hours per week of direct services to persons served
Performs other agency-related duties as assigned within the scope of this role.

Benefits

Flexible work schedules.
Comprehensive benefits package includes medical, prescription, group-paid life, dental, and vision insurance for full-time staff.
Pay rate increases for every 5 years of Sparc service
Ten to twenty-five (10-25) paid vacation days annually based on years of service.
Employees earn three (3) paid personal days pro-rated based on start date.
Employees earn eight to twelve (8-12) paid sick days annually based on years of service.
Retirement savings plan options.
Pre-tax Healthcare Flexible Spending Account option.
Pre-tax Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account option.
Employee Assistance Program.
Professional development opportunities.
Supportive, mission-driven work environment.