Employment Services Professional

Employment Services Position:

As an Employment Services Professional (ESP), you will help job seekers, including those with disabilities or other barriers, find and maintain employment by matching them with suitable jobs and providing ongoing support. ESPs assess clients' skills and goals, develop relationships with employers to find opportunities, and assist with job search activities like resume building and interviewing. ESPs may also provide support to both the client and employer to ensure long-term job retention.

We are looking for someone caring, professional, and organized, with prior job coach or DSP/PSW experience preferred. This role involves working directly with clients in the community, so driving will be necessary. A successful ESP is someone communicative, confident and flexible, who can work within our Employment Services team. This position is in-person with the ability to travel to various locations within the Portland, OR area as needed by the client(s).

Job Objectives:

• Build Relationships. Develop and maintain positive relationships with clients, their families, and local employers.

• Manage the job search process:

• Find job opportunities. Actively seek out and develop relationships with employers in the community

• Job placement. Identify job opportunities, assist with the application process, and work with employers to secure a position.

• Support. Help clients develop resumes, write cover letters, and practice interviewing skills.

• Match clients to jobs. Connect clients with jobs that align with their goals, skills, and interests.

• Stay connected. Offer guidance throughout the job search process

• Work with employers. Educate employers about the benefits of hiring individuals with disabilities and assist with making reasonable accommodations.
  

• Client assessment. Evaluate an individual's strengths, interests, and abilities to ensure they are matched with a job suitable for their needs.

• Address barriers. Help clients navigate issues like the impact of employment on benefits (e.g., SSI, Medicaid) and discuss preferences for disclosing health status to employers.

• On-the-job training. Provide direct, hands-on training for job-specific tasks and help the individual learn workplace norms and social dynamics.

• Support and advocacy. Offer ongoing support to ensure the individual's success, including problem-solving, moral support, and advocating for necessary workplace accommodations.

• Record keeping: Maintain documentation of client progress and prepare reports.

• Retention. Provide additional/ongoing coaching to help clients retain their employment.

General job requirements:

• Pass a criminal background check

• Maintain prompt communication with supervisors, FRR office staff, coworkers, clients and/or parents and guardians via email, phone, and text.

• Complete required Daily Progress Notes and Quarterly Reports to meet the state-mandated requirements for content and timeliness.

• Attend occasional in-person staff meetings or community events.

• Perform additional support duties and responsibilities as assigned.

• This position is in-person, in the community. Must have reliable transportation and current auto insurance.

Job Qualifications:

• Prior job coach, employment specialist, caregiver or similar experience required.

• An interest and desire to work within the intellectually and developmentally disabled community.

• Self-directed and highly organized, with the ability to collaborate with the client.

• Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

• Ability to communicate in a professional manner, both written and verbal.

• Be comfortable using various technologies including cell phone or tablet to clock in for shifts and complete progress notes.

Benefits:

• Paid sick/vacation time and holiday pay
• Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance

• 401k benefits with company match (after 1 year)

• Annual raises of up to 4%, depending on performance

• Free gym membership with MUV Fitness.