Employment Specialist

Job Title:       Employment Specialist
 Reports To:  Director, Employment Services 
 Program:      Employment Services
 Location:     Westchester County/White Plains
 Hours Per Week: 35
 FLSA Status:  Non-exempt   
 Salary Range:  $21-$24 per hour

Summary Description: Greater Mental Health of New York’s Employment Services supports individuals with behavioral health conditions and other disabilities in achieving their vocational goals. Using the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) model, the Employment Specialist provides personalized, trauma-informed, and person-centered services to help participants prepare for, obtain, and maintain competitive employment.

 Key Responsibilities: 

1. Pre-vocational Services: Deliver time-limited services to help individuals develop general employability skills.
2. Placement Services: Assist with job search strategies, resume development, interview preparation, and job matching.
3. Job Coaching: Provide on- or off-site coaching, including support with accommodations and employer communication.
4. Mobile and Hybrid Service Delivery: Meet participants in various settings; flexible scheduling including evenings/weekends.
5. Training: Complete job-specific training within 24 months of hire.
6. Administrative Duties: Maintain electronic records and fulfill reporting requirements.

Key Competencies: 

• Ability to teach and support goal-directed vocational activities.
• Familiarity with Trauma-Informed Care, Person-Centered Practice, and Motivational Interviewing.
• Understanding of challenges related to mental health and disabilities.
• Strong work history and insight into workplace expectations.
• Proficiency in electronic record systems and adaptability to change.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): 

• Timely completion of participant assessments and service plans.
• Successful job placements and retention rates.
• Participant satisfaction and engagement.
• Compliance with documentation and reporting standards.
• Completion of required training within designated timeframe.

Requirements: 

• Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, Human Services or related field.
• Minimum two years of experience in employment services for individuals with disabilities.
• Valid Driver’s License and acceptable driving record.

• Must maintain NYS Defensive Driving certification if operating agency vehicles.

• Ability to travel within Rockland and Westchester counties.
• Must be cleared and maintain clearance by applicable regulatory clearances as required.

• Strong computer knowledge: typing, communication tools, scheduling tools and web browsers.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite and database management systems. 
• Fluency in English (Reading, Writing, Speaking).
• Legally eligible to work in the United States without sponsorship. 

 Special Considerations: 

• Hours per week, reporting structure, and location are subject to change per program needs.
• Bilingual candidates (especially Spanish or ASL) are strongly preferred.
• Must demonstrate reliability, independence, and confidentiality.

 Mandated Reporter:

This is a Mandated Reporter position.  The NYS Justice Center legislation defines anyone who has regular and substantial contact with any person with special needs as a “custodian” under the law and, therefore, a mandated reporter.  You can be held liable by both the civil and criminal legal systems for intentionally failing to make a report. 

Greater Mental Health of New York is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Greater Mental Health of New York is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request a reasonable accommodation, contact the Human Resources Department.