What are the responsibilities and job description for the Vocational Specialist position at New Jersey Association on Correction?
Vocational Specialist
Location: Millicent Fenwick House
Department: DOC Programs
Reports to: Director
Salary Range: $43,000 - $50,000
FLSA Status: Exempt
To apply: Email your application to Denise Jennings, HR Director, at [email protected]
About NJAC
Since 1961, NJAC has been dedicated to helping people with a past build a future. We promote social justice and human dignity through educational, legislative, and rehabilitative programs for offenders and victims of crime.
Position Summary
As a Vocational Specialist with case management responsibilities, you will empower adult residents—state inmates classified to work release, substance abuse, or special needs programs—to achieve their employment and educational goals. You will assess client abilities and interests, develop individualized employment plans, provide career counseling, facilitate job training and placement, and offer ongoing support. You will also collaborate with employers, community resources, and families to ensure holistic client success, while maintaining compliance with NJAC and NJ Department of Corrections protocols.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and coordinate vocational and employment opportunities for program participants
- Serve as the primary liaison between employers and participants
- Establish and maintain relationships with potential employers
- Schedule and supervise community service events
- Monitor and review client employment and community service logs
- Maintain accurate client records, including assessments, treatment plans, and progress reports
- Provide individual and group counseling, crisis intervention, and conflict resolution
- Participate in multidisciplinary case conferences and treatment plan reviews
- Develop aftercare plans and ensure all required documentation is completed
- Advocate for clients seeking housing, legal advice, or other services, encouraging independent action
- Ensure compliance with all safety, security, and accountability protocols, including facility searches and urine monitoring
- Complete required annual training and participate in staff meetings and training sessions
- Prepare reports for management and funders as required
- Maintain client and staff confidentiality at all times
- Other duties as assigned
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Social Work, or related field; or six years of relevant experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience
- Experience supervising residential clients preferred
- Must pass criminal, education, substance use, and driver background checks
- Valid driver’s license and access to an insured, registered vehicle
- Knowledge of client groups and issues related to the program area
- Familiarity with social learning theory, cognitive-behavioral interventions, and group facilitation
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office, email, internet, and client tracking software
Personal Characteristics
- Ethical, professional, and committed to NJAC’s mission
- Strong relationship-building and communication skills
- Creative, innovative, and client-focused
- Team-oriented with leadership abilities
- Organized, decisive, and solution-oriented
Working Conditions
- Office and residential program environment; occasional nonstandard workplaces
- Standard work week with some evenings, weekends, and on-call rotation required
- Ability to lift up to 25 lbs. and perform physical activities as needed
Equal Opportunity Statement
NJAC is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. We welcome all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation, disability, age, marital status, sexual orientation, prior involvement in the criminal justice system, or other protected status.
This revised posting is ready to use and highlights the essential functions, qualifications, and values of the Vocational Specialist/Case Manager role at NJAC.
Salary : $43,000 - $50,000