Employment Specialist – Supported Employment Program
Do you have experience working in a supportive role and are looking to take your career to the next level? As an Employment Specialist, you’ll have the opportunity to guide individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) towards career success. In this role, you'll provide personalized, one-on-one support to help clients secure and maintain meaningful employment in community settings. You won’t just assist with job tasks—you'll mentor and empower clients, helping them build the skills and confidence they need to thrive in their careers and in their personal lives. This is a rewarding opportunity to make a lasting impact on individuals’ lives and contribute to their growth and independence.
Your caseload will primarily be located in the Clackamas/Gresham area.
What’s In It For You:
- Personal Fulfillment: Make a meaningful impact in someone’s life by helping them reach their career goals.
- Opportunity to Contribute to Community Inclusion: Play an integral role in promoting workplace diversity and creating inclusive employment environments.
- Continuous Learning & Skill Development: Gain valuable professional experience with opportunities for growth and skill enhancement.
- Variety Every Day: Enjoy diverse, dynamic work, where no two days are the same as you support clients across various industries and job settings.
Benefits & Perks:
- Hourly Rate: $22-$25/hour
- Schedule: Full-time
- Health Insurance: Medical, Vision, and Dental for full-time employees
- Retirement: 401(K) with up to 3% employer match after one year of service
- Paid Time Off: PTO for eligible employees
What You'll Do:
- Job Search Assistance: Assist clients with resume building, interview preparation, and job search activities.
- Workplace Training: Provide one-on-one mentorship in the workplace, teaching clients how to perform job tasks effectively and independently.
- Skill Development: Offer prompts, cues, and support to encourage the development of skills, while helping clients build confidence in their abilities.
- Progress Monitoring: Track clients’ progress, address challenges, and ensure consistent work performance.
- Goal Setting: Assist clients in setting and achieving career and personal goals, overcoming barriers, and fostering independence.
- Communication Support: Facilitate communication between clients, employers, and coworkers to ensure smooth workplace integration.
- Life Skills Development: Encourage positive social and workplace behaviors, helping clients thrive in professional settings.
- Workplace Safety: Ensure a safe and supportive work environment at all times, fostering positive and healthy job experiences.
- Job Habit Modeling: Demonstrate strong work habits and professional conduct, promoting accountability and success.
- Lasting Impact: Make a positive, long-term impact by mentoring and guiding clients to reach their employment goals and build fulfilling careers.
Qualifications:
Must Have:
- 6+ months of experience working as a DSP/Employment Specialist/Job Coach, or 1+ year of experience with individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities
- Valid driver’s license and access to reliable transportation
- A clean driving record and the ability to transport clients to various employment sites within the Portland metro community
- Strong computer skills (Google docs and sheets, email, basic data entry)
- A genuine passion for supporting others with a strong sense of advocacy
- Flexibility, self-motivation, and the ability to work independently
- Effective communication skills (listening, speaking, writing)
- Patience, compassion, and excellent interpersonal skills
- Ability to adapt to changing work environments and diverse client needs
Additional Requirements:
- Candidates must meet all Oregon State Department of Human Services requirements.
- Flexibility to work in various work settings, adapting to individual client needs and circumstances.
This is a fulfilling career where you’ll not only help others reach their employment goals, but also contribute to a more inclusive and diverse workforce. If you’re looking for a role where you can make a real difference, this is the opportunity for you!