Employment Specialist

Job Summary:

Looking to make a difference in someone’s life? Become an Employment Specialist with Oak Tree Support Services! As an Employment Specialist you will provide one-on-one direct support to individuals with disabilities to find and keep employment. At Oak Tree, we are committed to paving the way for our clients by removing barriers and supporting them to achieve self-reliance through employment. 

Employment Specialists develop career plans and goals, create resumes, apply for jobs, prepare for and schedule interviews, and coach clients on the skills needed to maintain long-term successful employment. Every day is different and can include indirect, virtual, and in person support based on the clients' needs and preferences. This is home office based when not working in the community with your clients with some flexibility to set your own schedule!

Duties:

• Develop a plan to assist clients in reaching their employment goals.
• Engage in effective job search techniques.
• Prepare clients for interviews using mock interview practices and attends interviews with clients as needed.
• Assist in creating a work schedule that meets clients needs. 
• Establish client transportation to and from the worksite.
• Advocate, as necessary, on the client's behalf to allow them to receive accommodations at work.
• Complete daily documentation of activities in client note database. 
• Maintain client privacy and confidentiality, ensuring protected health information is secured in accordance with agency guidelines.
• Work with clients to build skills and increase independence.
• On the job support as needed – partial/full shift dependent upon client needs. This can include weekends, holidays, and evenings.
• Work independently and effectively manage time.
• Develop a trusting relationship with the client while maintaining appropriate, professional boundaries.
• Maintain consistent contact with the client and client’s designated care team.
• Participate in weekly team meetings.
• Participate in continuous training and information gathering on benefits, employment opportunities, resource fairs, 245D, and the person-centered approach to employment.
• Comply with all 245D paperwork and deadlines after receiving adequate training. 
• Adherence to all policies and procedures within the division.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to function well in a high-paced and at times stressful environment.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
• Ability to pass DHS background check.

Education and Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Valid driver’s license and insurance required. 
• At least two years' related experience preferred.
• Experience working with individuals with disabilities preferred.
• Will train candidates without experience if meet other qualifications!
• 245D experience preferred.

 Oak Tree Support Services is committed to cultivating and preserving a culture of inclusion and connectedness. We are able to grow and learn better together with a diverse team of employees. The collective sum of the individual differences, life experiences, knowledge, innovation, self-expression, and talent that our employees invest in their work represents not only part of our culture, but our reputation and Oak Tree Support Services’ achievement as well. In recruiting for our team, we welcome the unique contributions that you can bring in terms of your education, opinions, culture, ethnicity, race, sex, gender identity and expression, nation of origin, age, languages spoken, veteran’s status, color, religion, disability, sexual orientation, and beliefs.