SUPPORTED EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST

If you’re looking for an opportunity to do meaningful work in your community, join the passionate, community-minded team at Northeast Kingdom Human Services (NKHS) is a 501(c)(3) private not-for-profit organization operating with the purpose of promoting a high quality, comprehensive community mental health program in Vermont’s beautiful Northeast Kingdom. Our mission is to enrich communities and enhance the ability of individuals and families to improve their lives. NKHS is a Designated Agency contracted with the State of Vermont to provide the highest quality of service in the areas of adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities, children and youth with serious emotional disabilities, and adults with mental health and substance use challenges. We serve the populations of Caledonia, Essex, and Orleans counties through a wide variety of targeted programs for individuals of all ages. NKHS has employees providing case management, community and home supports, residential care, psychiatry, medication management, therapy, vocational supports, school based counseling, emergency care, and respite services. These services are provided annually to nearly 4,000 of our local community members, helping them overcome challenges and achieve health in mind, body, and spirit. Visit us at NKHS.org Check out Life in the NEK of Vermont!

The Employment Specialist works primarily within the community to support adults in obtaining and sustaining meaningful employment. This involves identifying competitive job opportunities that align with each individual’s preferences, skills, and abilities, while providing guidance and resources to ensure long-term success in the workplace.

In addition to job placement, Employment Specialists educate individuals on how employment may affect benefits such as Social Security and Medicaid, ensuring they understand that most people can work and still retain some benefits. This guidance helps individuals make informed decisions about employment while maintaining financial stability.

Essential Tasks/Functions/Responsibilities

• • Complete comprehensive employment assessments of the individual’s skills and preferences.
  • Provide work and/or education incentives planning.
  • Create job and/or education support plans for each new experience and deliver ongoing follow-along support.
  • Build strong relationships with employers within the community to expand employment opportunities.
  • Perform individualized job search based on client preferences.
  • Promote job and employer diversity; ensure competitive employment standards.
  • Provide community-based services in natural settings.
  • Participate in weekly treatment team meetings and collaborate with Hire Ability.
  • Offer follow-along support before transitioning the individual to less intensive care.

Education/Training/Skill Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Psychology, Addiction Studies or a related field preferred, but life experience and some education will be considered.
• Obtain Individual Placement and Supports (IPS) Provider certification within six months of hire and maintain this certification, with the option to pursue IPS Supervisor certification based on performance and supervisory review.
• Demonstrate the ability to learn and adapt to technology that supports timely, accurate documentation and workflow efficiency.

• Highly self-motivated and capable of working independently to achieve objectives.
• Build and maintain partnerships with community organizations and employers to support workforce development and outreach efforts.
• Compassion, professionalism, and strong leadership skills
• Must successfully complete Agency Background checks and have reliable transportation, appropriate vehicle insurance ($100,000/$300,000) and a valid driver’s license.

SALARY & BENEFITS

• $21.25 - $25.97 per hour, depending upon qualifications
• Health and dental insurance.
• 403b retirement plan with Agency contribution and match.
• Generous paid time off, 12 sick days and 12 paid holidays.
• Outstanding employee wellness program
• Exceptional benefits package including low-cost medical and dental, short-/long-term disability coverages, life insurance, employee assistance program, and additional optional benefits.