Grant Funded

Job Summary:  
The Individual Placement Specialist provides opportunities and assistance for clients to obtain and maintain employment that is consistent with their vocational goals. An IPS will engage employers in the communities in which our clients live, providing a connection for clients looking for employment. Networking with local employees and maintaining client relationships will be key, with at least 65% of services delivered in the community. The IPS will follow the IPS Principles to meet with clients to help understand what they are looking for in a prospective employer as well as help prepare them for vocation. Excepti.onal communication skills allow an Individual Placement Specialist to contact prospective employers on clients' behalf, and support and guide the job seeker as they seek work and maintain employment.

Responsibilities:  
•     Use the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) model to identify consumers who have a  
                         vocational goal, assess consumers' vocational preferences and readiness, support consumers in  
                         finding and  maintaining employment, provide benefits counseling;
•    Conducts a minimum of six in-person employer contacts per week in the community. The aim of these visits to businesses is to develop relationships with managers/owners who have hiring responsibilities. Employer contacts are designed to learn about the needs of the business, describe supports offered by the program and describe job seeker strengths that are relevant to the position.
•    Engages with employers to identify opportunities and facilitate interviews with clients.       
•    Working with both employers and clients to develop trusting and collaborative relationships  
        directed toward the goal of finding competitive employment in a community job setting.
•    Conducts job search activities directed toward positions that are individualized to the interests and uniqueness of the people on his/her/their caseload, following the principles and procedures of IPS supported employment. Includes visiting businesses with job seekers to follow up on job applications and to talk to managers/business owners.
•    Complete foundational and ongoing training as required by the Office of Mental Health and other agencies
•    Spends 65% or more of scheduled work hours in the community, meeting with potential employers and identifying sources of potential employment opportunities..
•    Assists clients in obtaining information about their benefits (e.g., 551, Medicaid, etc.) and how they may be affected by employment.
•    Develops an individual employment (and/or education) plan with individuals. Incorporates input from a mental health treatment team and natural support, with permission

Qualifications/Requirements:

Experience:  
    Two (2) years of job-related experience.
Exceptional people skills and the ability to build strong relationships with individuals from any background
Excellent organization, communication and computer skills.
Experience working with people with severe mental illness, experience providing employment services, and knowledge of the work world are preferred. The ability to work as an effective team member is essential.

Education:  High School or equivalent required. Associates Degree preferred.
Licenses / Certifications:  

Other:  Bilingual in Spanish preferred