Social Practitioner – Employment Specialist

Organization Overview:

Mental Health Connections, based in Concord, CA, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering individuals in achieving mental health wellness and recovery. Connections House, a part of our broader Peer Connections program, operates under the Clubhouse Model, as established by Clubhouse International. This model provides a supportive, community-based environment where individuals living with mental illness can build meaningful relationships, gain skills, and pursue personal and professional goals. We are seeking a dedicated Social Practitioner to join our team at Connections House in Concord, CA. This role is ideal for individuals passionate about mental health recovery and committed to working within the Clubhouse Model to support members in their journey toward independence and wellness.

Job Summary
The Employment Specialist/Social Practitioner in a Clubhouse Model environment plays a vital role in supporting members in their recovery journey by facilitating opportunities for meaningful work and community integration. This position involves collaborating closely with Clubhouse members to identify strengths, interests, and employment goals, while also fostering skills development through the work-ordered day. The specialist partners with local employers to create and sustain supported and transitional employment placements, while ensuring ongoing coaching and advocacy to promote success on the job. In addition, the role includes providing individualized support with job readiness, résumé building, interviewing, and career exploration, as well as connecting members with educational and vocational resources. The Employment Specialist/Social Practitioner models inclusion, teamwork, and mutual respect, working side by side with members to create an empowering environment where each person can achieve greater independence and community participation.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Work side-by-side with members in the work-ordered day to build skills, confidence, and a sense of purpose.
• Assist members in identifying career interests, strengths, and employment goals.
• Develop, coordinate, and maintain transitional, supported, and independent employment opportunities with local employers.
• Provide on-the-job coaching, advocacy, and support to help members succeed and sustain employment.
• Support members with job readiness activities including résumé writing, interview practice, and workplace etiquette.
• Cultivate and maintain relationships with employers, community partners, and educational institutions.
• Track member progress and employment outcomes while maintaining accurate records and reports.
• Collaborate with staff and members to integrate employment goals into overall recovery and wellness plans.
• Encourage member leadership, peer support, and shared responsibility within the Clubhouse environment.

Program Facilitation & Development:

• Collaborate with members to plan, implement, and lead structured work-ordered day activities, including meal preparation, administrative tasks, employment support, media technology, and community outreach.
• Support members in developing vocational skills by assisting with employment opportunities and professional development initiatives.
• Facilitate daily meetings, group discussions, and educational workshops to enhance member engagement and learning.
• Maintain an environment that encourages member leadership and involvement.

Advocacy & Community Integration:

• Act as a liaison between members and external community resources to ensure access to services that support their mental health and social needs.
• Advocate for member rights and promote their integration into the broader community.
• Develop partnerships with local businesses, educational institutions, and service providers to enhance opportunities for members.

Operational Support:

• Assist with the daily operations of Connections House, including ensuring a safe and welcoming environment.
• Support event planning, social activities, and special programs that encourage member engagement.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation as required by the organization.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Participate in planned social outings for members that may require weekend hours or weekday after hours.
• Participate in ongoing training and professional development related to the Clubhouse Model.
• Drive Connections House vehicles as needed for member transportation and community outings.
• Adhere to all policies, procedures, and ethical standards of Mental Health Connections.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Program Director.

Qualifications:

• Education - Bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, mental health, or a related field (preferred).
• Certification or training in the Clubhouse Model (highly desirable).
• Peer Support Specialist certification or Medi-Cal Peer Certification (highly desirable).

Experience:

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in mental health, social services, or community-based employment programs.
• Experience working in a Clubhouse setting or with individuals with lived experience of mental illness (highly desirable).
• Experience facilitating groups and workshops (preferred).

Skills & Abilities:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to build rapport with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Knowledge of recovery-oriented practices and the Clubhouse Model.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and ZOOM.

Licenses & Transportation:

Valid California Driver’s License and reliable transportation with current registration and insurance (required).

Why Join Mental Health Connections?

Be part of a dynamic, supportive team dedicated to mental health recovery.

Gain hands-on experience with the internationally recognized Clubhouse Model.

Make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals living with mental illness.

Enjoy professional development and training opportunities.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $24.00 - $27.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• 403(b) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Mileage reimbursement
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Salary : $24 - $27