Lead Employment Specialist

Job Summary

Position includes traveling in Dunn, St. Croix, Pierce, Pepin and Polk Counties. We are seeking a dynamic and dedicated Lead Employment Specialist to champion workforce development initiatives and empower individuals from diverse backgrounds to achieve meaningful employment. In this vital role, you will lead a team of employment specialists, coordinate comprehensive job placement services, and foster strong partnerships with community organizations. Your expertise will drive innovative strategies to support individuals with disabilities, including developmental disabilities and autism, while ensuring compliance with employment and labor laws. This position offers an exciting opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of clients by providing mentorship, coaching, and tailored employment solutions that promote independence and community integration.

Duties

• Lead, mentor, and train a team of employment specialists to deliver high-quality workforce development services.
• Develop and implement individualized employment plans for clients with disabilities, including those from underserved communities.
• Coordinate job placement efforts by engaging with local employers, community partners, and service providers to expand employment opportunities.
• Conduct client assessments, interviews, and ongoing case management to ensure personalized support and successful job retention.
• Oversee compliance with employment laws, labor regulations, and agency policies while maintaining accurate documentation using Microsoft Office tools.
• Oversee employment specialists and coaches, including scheduling, including billing of services.
• Monitor program outcomes through data collection and reporting; adjust strategies to improve client engagement and employment success rates.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• · Provide guidance, training, and mentorship to employment services team.
• · Monitor staff performance to ensure alignment with program goals and adherence to best practices.
• · Lead strategic planning efforts aimed at increasing employment outcomes and expanding employer partnerships.
• · Participate in the development of programs, continuous quality improvement initiatives, and policy implementation.
• · Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with local businesses, employers, industry groups, and community organizations.
• · Conduct outreach to employers through networking events, presentations, job fairs, and site visits.
• · Assess employment opportunities and assist in matching candidates to suitable positions.
• · Support individuals with disabilities in preparing for employment through job search assistance, interview coaching, and career exploration.
• · Coordinate job placement activities and facilitate referrals to prospective employers.
• · Address workplace concerns, assist with accommodations, and provide problem-solving support.
• · Maintain accurate records of employer contacts, job placements, retention outcomes, and service delivery metrics.
• · Participate in scheduling employment services in the community.
• · Ensure compliance with funding requirements, billing procedures, applicable regulations, and organizational policies.
• · Utilize case management and data tracking systems to monitor progress and outcomes effectively.

NON-ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• · Collaborate effectively with colleagues and other team members.
• · Completes all required documentation accurately and promptly, including client progress notes, schedules, timesheets, and necessary reports.
• · Communicates clearly and promptly regarding program activities and client developments with management.
• · Understands and aligns with the goals, mission, and values of Indianhead Enterprises, Inc.
• · Represents Indianhead Enterprises professionally both onsite and within the community.
• · Attends external meetings, conferences, and activities with partner agencies to promote collaboration and referral opportunities.
• · Performs job duties with the aim of supporting each client’s progress toward their vocational and community integration goals.
• · Participates in ongoing professional development through training sessions, workshops, and seminars to enhance skills and knowledge.
• · Available for full-time or part-time work, including days, evenings, and weekends.
• · Performs additional job-related responsibilities as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Two or more years of professional experience and comprehensive knowledge of Division Vocational Rehabilitation.
• Associate degrees in a related field or prior relevant experience considered in lieu of formal education.
• · 2–4 years of experience in community‑based programs or disability services.
• · The candidate should demonstrate the ability to assess and integrate the client’s strengths, needs, and preferences into a person-centered vocational plan and service delivery.
• · Proficiency in conducting job analysis and establishing positive relationships with employers and the business community is essential.
• · Candidates should possess knowledge of a team-oriented approach to designing, accessing, and implementing resources that support successful job retention.
• · Experience with scheduling, documentation, and billing.
• · Dependable transportation, ability to travel local and long distances to job sites; valid driver's license required.
• · Experience with Customized Employment and Supported Employment models.
• · Knowledge of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), and Vocational Rehabilitation services.
• · Experience supervising or mentoring staff.
• · Familiarity with assistive technology and workplace accommodations.

Skills

• Strong knowledge of employment & labor law as it pertains to individuals with disabilities and underserved populations.
• Proven experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities.
• Expertise in workforce development programs, social services, case management, and client communication.
• Excellent coaching, mentoring, recruiting, training & development skills to foster team growth and client empowerment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite for documentation, reporting, and correspondence purposes.
• Ability to work effectively with culturally diverse communities while demonstrating sensitivity and cultural competence.
• Exceptional writing skills for preparing reports, plans, and program documentation; strong interviewing skills for client assessments.

Join us in shaping a more inclusive workforce by leading innovative employment initiatives that transform lives! This paid position offers the chance to develop your leadership skills while making a lasting impact in your community through dedicated service delivery rooted in compassion and expertise.

Pay: $23.00 - $27.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Mileage reimbursement
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Salary : $23 - $27