Employment Specialist/Case Manager

Overview
Do you love to help people succeed and achieve their goals? Dreamcatchers Empowerment Network is a non-profit agency seeking a Full Time EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST to work with justice involved youth with disabilities to find community employment within Ken County (Bakersfield). Our agency provides assessments, job preparation, job placement and coaching to youth and adults with limitations and disabilities throughout California.

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Employment Specialist to join our team. This role is crucial in supporting individuals in their journey towards meaningful employment. As an Employment Specialist, you will be responsible for guiding clients through the employment process, providing education and training, and advocating for their needs within the workforce.

Clients are referred through the Probation, in collaboration with the Department of Rehabilitation, and are seeking employment placement assistance as a tool to reduce recidivism.

Qualifications:

• A minimum of an Associate degree.
• Experience with Case Management and/or heavy documentation is required
• Experience working with youth, justice systems and people with disabilities
• Experience with community employment development is highly preferred
• Vehicle with Valid Driver’s License
• Must be computer-literate (typing and utilizing software programs).
• Effectively communicate information in both oral and written forms; must be able to present and exchange information internally across teams and co-workers, and externally with clients and the public.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• A passion for helping others achieve their employment goals.

We are looking for someone who is highly organized, and detail orientated, able to work independently as well as with a team and loves to assist others in reaching their dreams. Our ideal candidate is someone who is energetic, reliable, good communicator, a self-starter and passionate about giving back to the community. Flexibility is critical in providing services to meet the clients’ needs but also the demands of the position.

Responsibilities include but not limited to:

• Manage a caseload of approximately 20-25 referrals on a regular basis working independently under only general supervision.
• Conduct comprehensive assessments to identify clients' skills, interests, and employment barriers.
• Develops Individual Employment Plan with the client by identifying steps needed to obtain their vocational goals.
• Research and assist with education enrollment.
• Develop work experience locations with employers in the community based upon industry of interest of the client.
• Preparing clients for employment by creating resumes and cover letters, practicing mock interviews, and submitting applications.
• Provide individualized coaching and mentoring to clients throughout the job search process.
• Collaborate with local employers to create job opportunities for clients.
• Stay informed about employment labor laws and advocate for clients' rights in the workplace.
• Provide assistance to employers with support as needed to retain employees (clients) placed.
• Provide information on self-advocacy and community resources.
• Maintains organization of documents and files on caseload, including the submission on paperwork and documentation of case notes within specified timeframes.
• Maintain accurate records of client progress and outcomes while ensuring confidentiality.
• Represents Dreamcatchers Empowerment Network at community events/functions
• Interfaces and acts as liaison to person served, business community and referring or partner agencies.

This position will interface and act as a liaison to person served, the business community and probation/DOR and other partner agencies. Candidates must be able to travel and maneuver within the community to meet clients and employers daily. This is a Non-Exempt (hourly) position with company benefits such as: vacation & sick time, medical, dental, vision, AD&D, 401K, mileage reimbursement, professional development, training opportunity, annual staff retreat, and a holiday party. Must have clean DMV, and pass background check.

Dreamcatchers, Inc is a is an EEO/AA/Minority/F/Vet/Disability Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. To learn more about us visit us at https://www.dreamcatchersnetwork.org/home/

Join us in making a difference in the lives of individuals seeking meaningful work opportunities!

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $22.00 - $24.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Mileage reimbursement
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Day shift

Education:

• Associate (Required)

Experience:

• Justice/Probation: 1 year (Preferred)
• Youth Services: 1 year (Required)
• Working with people with disabilities: 1 year (Required)

Language:

• Spanish (Preferred)

License/Certification:

• Driver's License (Required)

Willingness to travel:

• 75% (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $22 - $24