Employment Specialist II

Lifeworks is hiring a full-time Employment Specialist II to support adults with disabilities in finding meaningful employment and provide on-the-job coaching for those already working in the community.

About the role

In this role, you’ll manage a caseload, attend intakes and annual meetings, complete required documentation, and collaborate with individuals and their support teams to deliver person-centered planning and services that empower success.

Responsibilities

• Managing a caseload of individuals with disabilities at various stages of their careers, including those seeking employment, those in early career stages, and those needing support to maintain or advance in their current jobs.
• Providing direct support and guidance to individuals with disabilities in securing competitive, integrated employment.
• Providing follow-up and ongoing support to ensure individuals maintain employment and meet their professional goals.
• Supporting clients in navigating workplace challenges, advocating for reasonable accommodations when necessary, and fostering positive relationships with employers.
• Initiating, developing, and maintaining relationships and community contacts to increase access to the most inclusive employment and social opportunities for individuals.
• Providing job search opportunities as needed to help individuals obtain employment of their choosing.
• Utilizing the E1MN framework to ensure effective and person-centered services.
• Collaborating with Vocational Rehabilitation counselors, employers, and community partners to enhance employment opportunities for individuals.
• Developing and implementing individualized employment and support plans that align with clients’ goals and preferences, in accordance with MN DHS 245D, Rule 9554 guidelines, VRS policies, and Extended Employment policies.
• Tracking and documenting client progress, ensuring compliance with applicable policies, including CARF standards, and reporting on outcomes.
• Training other staff to implement outcomes, goals, and support strategies.
• Ensuring adherence to all relevant policies, including but not limited to DHS 245D, 9554, and CARF guidelines.
• Arranging and/or providing necessary transportation to and from businesses and community locations in conjunction with other staff and team members.
• Managing billable time and ensuring billing is completed accurately and timely.
• Attending regular team meetings, training sessions, and professional development opportunities to stay informed on best practices, policy changes, and service delivery standards.
• Following safety procedures and assisting in identifying safety needs for self and others.
• Performing other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Associates degree and two years of experience in the human service field.
• Bachelor’s degree or a combination of four years of education and experience preferred.
• Fluent in English, verbal and written.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Must pass a background study with the Department of Human Services, a drug test, clean driving record and have reliable transportation to use for work driving purposes (e.g., in-office, on-site training locations, etc.).

Qualifications

• Capable of performing the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodations.
• Meet the standards of a Designated Coordinator.
• Understand and communicate written and verbal directions.
• Regular attendance, reliability and punctuality is necessary to meet the needs of the business.
• Well organized with excellent attention to detail.
• Work independently with excellent time management skills.
• Work effectively with others to reach common goals and objectives.
• Establish and cultivate strong relationships.
• Take initiative and strengthen relationships with current and new community partners.

Benefits

• 18 days of PTO accrued in the first year of employment
• 11 paid holidays (New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Day after Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and a Personal Holiday)
• Medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D insurance, short & long-term disability coverage
• Health Savings Account (HSA), Flexible Savings Account (FSA), and prescription drug coverage
• Up to $3,000 annually in tuition reimbursement
• 403(b) retirement plan – Lifeworks contributes 3% of your salary and matches up to 4% of employee contributions
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Pay

$20 - $21.50 per hour

Sign on bonus: up to $1,500 (to be paid out at 60 days and 120 days of employment)

Yearly bonus eligible

Schedule

Full-time; 40 hours/week, Monday – Friday (non-exempt)

Location

Lifeworks Services – Mankato

Equity Statement

Lifeworks strives to be radically accessible, diverse, equitable, and inclusive. We appreciate the vibrancy of differences, center the voices of silenced and marginalized people, and champion universal rights. Lifeworks Services is committed to hiring people from a variety of diverse cultures with diverse life experiences.