About VRSI:

Vocational Rehabilitation Specialists, Inc. (VRSI) is committed to aiding Military Veterans through the Department of Labor's Homeless Veteran Reintegration Program (HVRP). Operating across 11 offices in the United States, VRSI is dedicated to providing courteous, quality, and professional services aimed at helping eligible veterans, service members, and other individuals reach their full vocational potential. Our services encompass vocational counseling, training, vocational evaluation, and direct employment services.

Position Overview:

The Lead Employment Specialist plays a crucial role in the day-to-day delivery of reintegration services for Veterans at risk of losing housing. This position requires a dedicated individual who can manage office operations, ensure adherence to both company and Department of Labor (DOL) veteran policies, and meet grant objectives. This role involves direct supervision of office staff and maintaining effective relationships with employers to facilitate veteran employment.

Key Responsibilities:

Client Assessment and Case Management:

• Conduct comprehensive assessments of veterans' skills, experience, barriers to employment, and job readiness.
• Develop individualized employment plans that outline veterans' career goals, action steps, and timelines.
• Reaching individual assessed, qualified, placement and retention goals required by the grant.

Job Readiness Training:

• Provide training on resume writing, job search strategies, interview preparation, and professional conduct.
• Organize and facilitate job readiness workshops and training sessions.

Career Counseling and Support:

• Offer one-on-one career counseling to help veterans explore career options and make informed decisions.
• Provide ongoing support and follow-up to ensure veterans are progressing towards their employment goals.

Job Placement Assistance:

• Build and maintain relationships with local employers to identify job opportunities suitable for veterans.
• Assist veterans in applying for jobs, preparing for interviews, and negotiating employment terms.

Office Management:

• Supervise and manage Employment Specialist within the office, ensuring adherence to company policy, DOL VETS policy, and that all grant requirements such as eligibility, placements, training, and financial expenditures are met.
• Approve time off and manage schedules for ES, ensuring smooth operations and effective time management within the region.
• Ensure Employment Specialists reach goals for assessed, qualified, placement and retention required by the grant.

Employer Engagement:

• Collaborate with employers to understand their hiring needs and promote the benefits of hiring veterans.
• Attend job fairs, employer panels, and networking events to connect veterans with potential employers.

Program Coordination and Reporting:

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date client records, case notes, and employment outcomes.
• Prepare and submit regular reports on program activities, outcomes, and grant compliance.
• Complete and submit quarterly reporting.

Community Collaboration:

• Work with community partners, veteran services organizations, and other stakeholders to coordinate services and resources for veterans.
• Represent VRSI and HVRP program at community meetings, events, and outreach activities.

Qualifications:

Educations: Bachelor’s degree in social work, human services, counseling, or a related field. Relevant experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.

Experience: Minimum of 1 year of experience in Leadership role, employment services, or a related field. Experience working with veterans or homeless populations is highly preferred.

Skills & Abilities:

• Strong understanding of the challenges faced by homeless veterans.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Proficiency in using job search platforms, career assessment tools, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to build and maintain professional relationships with clients, employers, and community partners.

Compensation and Benefits:

• Hourly Rate: $24-$28 based on experience
• 11 Paid Company Holidays
• Sick Time after 90 days of employment
• Paid Time Off
• Effective Jul 1 2024 VRSI will offer Healthcare. Employees are eligible after 90 days of employment

Simple IRA Plan after 1 year of employment