Employment Specialist

About the role

RISE Services is a mission-driven organization dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities achieve meaningful, competitive integrated employment. Through person-centered employment services, customized job development, and ongoing workplace support, we empower individuals to build successful careers and greater independence.

Why Join RISE Services?

- Make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities. - Help people achieve independence through meaningful employment. - Flexible, community-based work environment. - Paid mileage reimbursement for work-related travel. - Ongoing training and professional development. - Opportunities for career growth within a growing organization.

What You'll Do

- Employment Planning - Conduct employment assessments to identify each participant's strengths, interests, skills, and career goals. - Develop individualized employment plans using a person-centered approach. - Identify barriers to employment and coordinate resources to support successful outcomes. - Job Readiness & Career Development - Coach participants in resume development, interviewing, workplace communication, and professional behavior. - Conduct mock interviews and job readiness activities. - Teach workplace expectations, soft skills, and employment success strategies. - Job Development & Placement - Assist participants with job searches using online job boards, networking, employer outreach, and community resources. - Match participants with employment opportunities that align with their interests and abilities. - Coordinate applications, interviews, and hiring activities. - Advocate for reasonable workplace accommodations when appropriate. - Job Coaching & Employment Retention - Provide on-site and community-based job coaching. - Support participants during onboarding and skill development. - Assist individuals with learning job duties, workplace routines, and communication with supervisors and coworkers. - Monitor progress and provide ongoing support to promote long-term employment retention. - Documentation & Compliance - Complete timely service documentation, progress notes, and required records. - Maintain documentation in accordance with Medicaid and organizational requirements. - Track employment outcomes including placements, hours worked, wages, and employment retention. - Employer & Community Engagement - Develop relationships with local employers to increase employment opportunities. - Attend hiring events, job fairs, and community networking activities. - Collaborate with families, support coordinators, schools, and other community partners to coordinate services.

Qualifications

- Required: - Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Social Work, Psychology, Counseling, Education, Rehabilitation, or a related field (or equivalent experience may be considered). - Experience working with individuals with disabilities or individuals experiencing barriers to employment. - Strong communication, coaching, and relationship-building skills. - Ability to work independently while managing multiple priorities. - Valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and willingness to travel throughout the service area. - Preferred: - Experience providing Supported Employment or Individual Supported Employment (ISE) services. - Knowledge of Medicaid Waiver services and disability employment supports. - Understanding of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and workplace accommodations. - Experience with electronic documentation systems. - CESP, ACRE, DSP, or other employment support certifications are a plus.

Skills

- Supported Employment - Job Coaching - Employment Services - Career Development - Disability Services - Community Integration - Employer Relations - Job Development - Documentation - Case Management - Microsoft Office - Time Management - Communication - Problem Solving

Work Environment

- Community-based position serving individuals in employer worksites and throughout the community. - Regular local travel throughout Woodbridge, Fairfax, Springfield, and Stafford. - Monday-Friday schedule with occasional flexibility based on participant and employer needs.