Employment Specialist

If you are driven by a desire to make a meaningful difference in your community and shape brighter futures, The Help Group is the organization for you! We're one of the largest nonprofits of our kind in the U.S., offering diverse programs for individuals and families affected by autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, developmental delays, abuse, mental health and social-emotional challenges. Since our founding in 1975, we've grown significantly, expanding our reach to meet the evolving needs of our community. Today, we offer unparalleled academic programs, mental health support, therapy, life coaching, vocational training, specialized social and residential programs, and resources for LGBTQ youth and families. These initiatives touch the lives of over 6,000 clients a year and continue to expand in reach and impact. At the heart of The Help Group's mission is a steadfast commitment to empowering individuals to reach their full potential and live positive, productive, and fulfilling lives. We invite passionate professionals to join us in supporting the development of our students, clients, and residents as we grow! Here, you'll find not just a job, but an opportunity to grow your career in a deeply rewarding environment! 

Come be part of a team that inspires, mentors and changes students’ lives because everyone deserves a great future.

Position Details: 

• Full-Time
• Location: Sherman Oaks

Key Responsibilities  

• Work collaboratively with DOR Consumer, Program Coordinator, DOR SVRC-QRP, parent(s), therapist, teachers, and/or other involved or appropriate supports, to ensure more successful outcomes for DOR Consumers
• Monitors and evaluates the DOR participants in work experience, conducts on-site job visitations of DOR participants
• Communicates with employers during students’ employment and reports results to appropriate staff and/or faculty
• Provides input to monthly progress notes that are submitted to the DOR counselor
• Keep Program Coordinator informed of all relevant factors relating to the DOR Consumer and training needs
• Participates in all contract-related and required meetings, trainings, and supervisory sessions
• Conduct job clubs as directed by the Vocational Director
• Collect client satisfaction questionnaires on a quarterly basis
• Maintain client information in a confidential manner
• Maintain client charts in a responsible manner and meet all paperwork deadline requirements
• Maintain productivity rate at required program standards
• Be certified in Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI), and use these procedures as needed according to agency policy for situation control in a crisis
• Surveys the community labor market to identify the types of jobs that appear to be within the capacity of DOR participants. Trains and supports participant in preparation to be placed in a Work Experience setting

Qualifications

• B.A. degree required; bilingual Spanish Speakers strongly encouraged to apply.
• Education and experience in mental health, social services, business or related field
• Two years continuous work experience working with young adults (ages 16-22) with disabilities or mental health challenges
• Must be approved to drive agency vehicles and have a clean DMV report. Job development experience is preferred
• High energy, attention to detail, well organized and impeccable time management skills required
• Must be able to work Monday- Friday 9:00AM-5:30PM

The Help Group offers wonderful training opportunities, a supportive, professional work environment, and great benefits, including:     

• Insurance plans for Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance - options for 100% employer sponsored plans
• 403b Retirement Plan    
• 529 College Savings Plan
• Employee Assistance Program 
• Flexible Spending Account    
• Vacation and Sick Leave (Take vacation out for Teachers)
• Benefit Hub - Employee Rewards and Incentives
• Pet Insurance