What are the responsibilities and job description for the Employment Specialist - Work Therapy Assistant position at State of Minnesota?
Working Title: Employment Specialist
Job Class: Work Therapy Assistant
Agency: Direct Care and Treatment
At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.
Direct Care and Treatment is unable to provide sponsorship for work visas. Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States at the start of employment. DCT does not participate in E-Verify.
As an Employment Specialist you will work with and help our program participants who are individuals that have varied abilities including, but not limited to, cognitive/intellectual disabilities, mental illness, brain injury and physical disabilities obtain work through Customized Employment. Customized Employment is a process that allows individuals with disabilities and employers the opportunity to negotiate job tasks and/or reassign job duties to improve overall contribution in the workplace.
In this position you will:
To be qualified for and considered for this position, applicants must meet all of the minimum qualifications listed below. Ensure that your resume contains descriptions of your work experiences sufficient for comparison against the requirements stated below and indicate the beginning and ending month and year for each job held.
To facilitate proper crediting, please ensure that your resume clearly describes your experience in the areas listed and indicates the beginning and ending month and year for each job held.
REFERENCE/BACKGROUND CHECKS - Direct Care and Treatment will conduct reference checks to verify job-related credentials and criminal background check prior to appointment.
How To Apply
Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers.
Contact
If you have questions about this position, contact Gage Rautio at gage.a.rautio@state.mn.us
To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Joshua Xiong at joshua.xiong1@state.mn.us.
If you are an individual with a disability and need an ADA accommodation for an interview, you may contact: Accommodations.DCT@state.mn.us or call 651-539-7243
About Direct Care And Treatment
Direct Care and Treatment is a highly specialized behavioral health system operated by the State of Minnesota. DCT operates treatment programs, residential and vocational services for people with serious mental illness, developmental disabilities, substance use disorders and more.
Working together to improve the state we love.
What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?
As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.
Your benefits may include:
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS
Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.
Applicants With Disabilities
Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need.
Job Class: Work Therapy Assistant
Agency: Direct Care and Treatment
- Job ID: 93752
- Location: Virginia
- Telework Eligible: No
- Full/Part Time: Part-Time
- Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
- Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
- Date Posted: 04/23/2026
- Closing Date: 04/29/2026
- Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Direct Care and Treatment / DCT Moose Lake AFSCME
- Division/Unit: MSOCS Admin / MSOCS Virginia Community Resources
- Work Shift/Work Hours: Rotating Shift (hours may vary depending on the needs of program (ex: 7 am - 3:30pm; 3 pm - 11 pm)
- Days of Work: Varies; may include, weekdays, weekends, and/or holidays
- Travel Required: Yes (Transport and accompany individuals as needed)
- Salary Range: $24.12 - $30.89 / hourly
- Classified Status: Classified
- Bargaining Unit/Union: 204 - Health Care Non Professional/AFSCME
- Work Area: Virginia, MN
- FLSA Status: Nonexempt
- Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: Yes
At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.
Direct Care and Treatment is unable to provide sponsorship for work visas. Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States at the start of employment. DCT does not participate in E-Verify.
As an Employment Specialist you will work with and help our program participants who are individuals that have varied abilities including, but not limited to, cognitive/intellectual disabilities, mental illness, brain injury and physical disabilities obtain work through Customized Employment. Customized Employment is a process that allows individuals with disabilities and employers the opportunity to negotiate job tasks and/or reassign job duties to improve overall contribution in the workplace.
In this position you will:
- Act as a liaison between local businesses (employers) and program participants for community based employment opportunities.
- Obtain and set up sites in the community for work assessments, job try-outs, internships, and volunteer opportunities.
- Assist program participants in finding, obtaining, teaching, and on-going support with community jobs.
- Facilitate problem resolution among individuals, families, case managers, community members, staff and others so that supports can be coordinated and individuals can achieve their optimum success.
- Assist the program to meet Department of Labor, MN state licensing and Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) standards.
To be qualified for and considered for this position, applicants must meet all of the minimum qualifications listed below. Ensure that your resume contains descriptions of your work experiences sufficient for comparison against the requirements stated below and indicate the beginning and ending month and year for each job held.
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Current and valid driver's license
- Basic math skills sufficient to add, subtract, multiply and divide
- Clear communication skills to understand and communicate complex employment services with community members, employers and teams.
- Basic computer skills sufficient to create word documents, receive and respond to email
- Ability to read and write English
- A minimum of one-year experience implementing training/employment programs for individuals who have cognitive/intellectual disabilities, mental illness, chemical dependency, physical disability, brain injury and/or displaced workers
- One year experience in an employment field plus one year working with the disability population.
- Our employees are dedicated to ensuring cultural responsiveness. Preferred candidates will have a variety of experiences working effectively with others from different backgrounds and cultures.
- Knowledge, training/certification/education, and/or implementation of Customized Employment.
- Experience working with Vocational Rehabilitation Services.
- Experience finding resources involving assistive technology to maintain successful employment.
To facilitate proper crediting, please ensure that your resume clearly describes your experience in the areas listed and indicates the beginning and ending month and year for each job held.
REFERENCE/BACKGROUND CHECKS - Direct Care and Treatment will conduct reference checks to verify job-related credentials and criminal background check prior to appointment.
How To Apply
Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers.
Contact
If you have questions about this position, contact Gage Rautio at gage.a.rautio@state.mn.us
To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Joshua Xiong at joshua.xiong1@state.mn.us.
If you are an individual with a disability and need an ADA accommodation for an interview, you may contact: Accommodations.DCT@state.mn.us or call 651-539-7243
About Direct Care And Treatment
Direct Care and Treatment is a highly specialized behavioral health system operated by the State of Minnesota. DCT operates treatment programs, residential and vocational services for people with serious mental illness, developmental disabilities, substance use disorders and more.
Working together to improve the state we love.
What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?
- A sense of purpose in their work
- Connection with their coworkers and communities
- Opportunities for personal and professional growth
As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.
Your benefits may include:
- Paid vacation and sick leave
- 12 paid holidays each year
- Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans
- Fertility care, including IVF
- Diabetes care
- Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children
- 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
- Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years)
- Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death
- Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury
- Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care
- Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being
- Training, classes, and professional development
- Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov)
- A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance
- Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues
- Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS
Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.
Applicants With Disabilities
Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need.
Salary : $24 - $31