LifeWorks of Austin is looking for an Employment Specialist to carry out services to clients of the LifeWorks Workforce Development Program. The Employment Specialist carries out services to clients of the LifeWorks Workforce Development Program by assisting them in obtaining and maintaining employment that is consistent with their vocational goals. The Employment Specialist utilizes the Individual Placement and Support model of Supported Employment with young adults ages 16-26 who have experienced trauma. The Employment Specialist works with the client to promote recovery and wellness through placement and support in meaningful employment that aligns with the clients’ preferences and strengths.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assesses clients' vocational functioning on an ongoing basis utilizing background information and work experiences.
• Provides individualized follow-along supports to assist clients in seeking and maintaining employment; completing education goals.
• Writes job support goals and steps with clients and incorporates input from larger client-centered team. Adjusts plan according to clients’ needs and preferences.
• Participates in weekly meetings with team and communicates individually with team members between meetings in order to coordinate and integrate vocational services into other LifeWorks services. Meets periodically with staff from across LifeWorks in order to provide coordinated wrap-around services.
• Conducts job development and job search activities directed toward positions that are individualized to the interests and uniqueness of the people on his/her caseload, following the principles and procedures of the IPS supported employment model.
• Conducts weekly employer contacts that are designed to learn about the needs of the business, describe supports offered by the program and describe client strengths that are relevant to the position. Provides education and support to employers as agreed upon by clients, which may include negotiating job accommodations and follow-along contact by the employment specialist with the employer.
• Provides timely interventions and outreach services as necessary to clients when they appear to disengage from services.
• Assists clients in obtaining information about their benefits (e.g., SSI, Medicaid, etc.) and how they will be affected by employment in order for clients to make good decisions about employment opportunities. Refers clients to benefits counseling, as needed. Helps clients report earnings, as needed.
• Provides training by engaging clients in collaborative relationships directed toward job readiness skills such as resume writing, interview skills, and presentation skills, accessing resources in the community, acquiring appropriate pre-employment skills, and long-term career planning and development.
• Develops an individual employment (and/or education) plan with clients. Incorporates input from team and/or family members, with permission.
• Develops relationships with employers by learning about their businesses, hiring needs, practices and hiring preferences.
• Utilizes good client interviewing skills in order to learn about individual preferences, past experiences, hopes and concerns regarding employment.
• Utilizes a strengths-based approach when serving clients by recognizing each person’s skills and experiences.
• Transports clients around in the community, on occasion, to job interviews, job shadowing opportunities, and to work.
• Provides supported education, using principles of supported employment, for clients who express interest in education to advance their employment goals.
• Maintains documentation in accordance with agency and program requirements.
• Conducts mental health screeners and assessments and ensures required client consents are collected and documented.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Requires a Bachelor’s degree in mental health, social services, or business;
• Requires 2 years related experience with youth and young adults, preferably in employment services; or
• Equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Proficient in MS Office including Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook.
• CRM Software: 1+ years of experience working with a database tool to log and enter data.

ABOUT LIFEWORKS

With more than 50 years of experience working with youth experiencing homelessness, youth aging out of foster care, young adults, and young parents, we are a fearless advocate for youth and families seeking their path to self-sufficiency. LifeWorks goal is to be able to provide clients with the resources they need a place to call home, the chance to heal, and the opportunity to learn and to work. We have one of the most comprehensive continuums of housing and support options for vulnerable youth in the country. We are committed to innovative problem solving, shared accountability and a relentless focus on achieving real, sustainable, and measurable results for the clients we serve. A career at LifeWorks offers opportunities to grow and develop your professional skills while making an immediate difference in the lives of youth and families in our community.