Employment Specialist

Job Description: Job Title: Employment Specialist Location: Indianapolis, IN Department: Vocational / Supported Employment Services Employment Type: Full-time Job Summary Are you passionate about helping individuals achieve meaningful employment and long-term independence? As an Employment Specialist , you will play a vital role in supporting individuals with disabilities and other barriers to employment as they pursue competitive careers and greater self-sufficiency. In this highly client-facing role , you will provide individualized career planning, job development, placement, and retention services while building strong partnerships with employers throughout the community. You will serve as a coach, advocate, and connector—helping clients identify their strengths, develop job readiness skills, and succeed in the workplace. This position requires regular travel within the community to meet with clients, attend employer meetings, and provide on-site job coaching and employment support. The use of a personal vehicle may be required , and candidates must maintain a valid driver’s license, acceptable driving record, and current automobile insurance in accordance with organizational policies. Employee Assistance Program – 24/7 counseling, legal, and financial support for you and your household Mileage Reimbursement – Company-paid travel for work-related functions Employee Discounts – Hotels, theme parks, attractions, and college tuition Workplace Culture – A welcoming, supportive environment that values your well-being and promotes professional growth Key Responsibilities Treat all clients, referral sources, stakeholders, and team members with dignity and respect. Maintain confidentiality and adhere to all CARF and contractual standards. Maintain flexibility in work availability, including evenings, overnights, and weekends as needed. Review vocational, medical, psychological, and educational records to support individualized career planning and job development. Participate in treatment and planning meetings using shared decision-making to support employment goals. Conduct client orientations explaining services, rights, responsibilities, and disclosure options. Provide individualized career counseling through interviews, assessments, and community-based activities. Assist clients with benefits planning related to employment decisions, wages, and work hours. Teach and reinforce job-seeking, interviewing, and job-retention skills. Develop and maintain employer partnerships to create competitive, integrated employment opportunities. Advocate for clients with employers, families, schools, and community agencies. Educate employers on the benefits of inclusive hiring and assist with job accommodations and workplace supports. Promote programs and services through employer outreach, community events, and public presentations. Maintain frequent communication with referral sources and identify potential referrals. Report job development outcomes, placements, retention progress, and concerns to leadership regularly. Respond to workplace or client-related crises when they arise. Travel regularly to provide job development, on-site coaching, and transportation for clients as needed. Provide on-site or off-site job supports when required. Perform additional duties as assigned by Leadership. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Understanding of how to support individuals with disabilities and/or barriers to employment, education, and independent living. Knowledge of case management and rehabilitation principles related to mental health and substance use treatment. Familiarity with challenges faced by individuals with mental illness and substance use disorders and available community resources. Knowledge of legal and ethical requirements in behavioral health and vocational services. Ability to evaluate program services and provide constructive feedback. Strong verbal and written communication skills. Excellent customer service and relationship-building abilities. Proficiency with computers and software including Word, Excel, internet platforms, and electronic documentation systems. Education, Experience, and/or Credential Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent required. Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in a related field preferred. Minimum of one (1) year of experience providing employment or vocational services. Employment & Training Requirements Successful completion of background checks (criminal, driving, abuse/neglect, fingerprinting). Completion of New Hire Orientation at the beginning of employment. Completion of all required trainings, including Relias, at hire and annually thereafter. Current driver’s license, acceptable driving record, and current auto insurance required. Proof of being free from infectious and contagious diseases (e.g., TB) prior to hire and annually thereafter, as required. Physical Requirements Sedentary work: Exerting up to 10 pounds occasionally and/or negligible force frequently. Repetitive hand and arm movements for typing and writing. Sitting most of the time with occasional walking or standing for brief periods. Position Perks & Benefits Paid Time Off – Generous PTO package to support work-life balance Comprehensive Benefits – Medical, dental, vision, life, and retirement plans Top-Notch Training – Initial, ongoing, and supportive professional development Career Mobility – Advancement opportunities and internal promotions Supportive Culture – A welcoming environment that values your well-being, humanity, and long-term success Position Perks & Benefits: Paid time off: full-time employees receive an attractive time off package to balance your work and personal life Employee benefits package: full-time employees receive health, dental, vision, retirement, life, & more Top-notch training: initial, ongoing, comprehensive, and supportive Career mobility: adv