What are the responsibilities and job description for the Education and Employment Specialist position at Positive Growth Inc.?
Job Summary:
We are looking for a dedicated Education and Employment Specialist to join our Early Intervention Psychosis Program (EIPP). In this role, you will support young adults (16-30 years old) experiencing early psychosis as they work towards achieving their educational and vocational goals. If you have a passion for helping individuals overcome barriers to success and a commitment to collaborative care, we invite you to apply. The Education and Employment Specialist's primary responsibility is to help clients achieve success in education and employment while collaborating with the EIPP team. This position helps participants increase their job and school readiness , provide job search techniques, career planning, support services, workplace soft skills, internship opportunities, and provides post-employment job retention and wage progression services. This position also assists participants with enrolling in K-12 and/or college, job training, etc. Along with other team members this staff will also participate in outreach activities.
Essential Duties:
- Conduct assessments of clients’ educational, vocational, and personal goals.
- Develop and implement personalized education and employment plans in collaboration with clients and the team.
- Guide clients in educational options, vocational training, and career development.
- Assist clients in re-enrolling in K-12 education or pursuing GED completion, providing support for academic and emotional challenges.
- Guide clients in exploring and applying to college or technical schools, including career-focused programs, to further their education and vocational goals.Provide job coaching, workplace skill development, and support in obtaining/maintaining employment.
- Assist clients in overcoming barriers like stigma, anxiety, and practical challenges.
- Educate clients and families on early psychosis, mental health maintenance, and available resources.
- Collaborate with team members (psychiatrists, social workers, therapists) to ensure holistic care.
- Build partnerships with educational institutions, employers, and community agencies to create opportunities.
- Participate in outreach events and workshops to promote integration into education and employment.
- Maintain accurate client records and track progress and outcomes.
- Contribute to program evaluations and reports.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, counseling, or related field.
- At least two years of relevant experience, preferably in early intervention or mental health.
- Experience working with individuals with severe mental illness, psychosis, or in supported education/employment.
- Strong communication, interpersonal, and collaboration skills.
- Ability to work within a multidisciplinary team and manage a fast-paced environment.
- Familiarity with local education and employment resources and community partnerships.
- Empathy, patience, and a non-judgmental attitude toward clients and families.
- Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Word and Excel.
