Vocational Specialist
About the role
NJAC is a nonprofit organization founded in 1961 dedicated to helping individuals with a past rebuild their lives through various programs. The Vocational Specialist position plays a crucial role in empowering adult state inmates to achieve their employment and educational goals.
Responsibilities
Develop and coordinate vocational and employment opportunities for program participants.
Serve as the primary liaison between employers and participants.
Establish and maintain relationships with potential employers.
Schedule and supervise community service events.
Maintain accurate client records, including assessments, treatment plans, and progress reports.
Provide individual and group counseling, crisis intervention, and conflict resolution.
Participate in multidisciplinary case conferences and treatment plan reviews.
Develop aftercare plans and ensure all required documentation is completed.
Advocate for clients seeking housing, legal advice, or other services, encouraging independent action.
Ensure compliance with all safety, security, and accountability protocols, including facility searches and urine monitoring.
Complete required annual training and participate in staff meetings and training sessions.
Prepare reports for management and funders as required.
Maintain client and staff confidentiality at all times.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Social Work, or related field; or six years of relevant experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Experience supervising residential clients preferred.
Must pass criminal, education, substance use, and driver background checks.
Valid driver’s license and access to an insured, registered vehicle.
Knowledge of client groups and issues related to the program area.
Familiarity with social learning theory, cognitive-behavioral interventions, and group facilitation.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office, email, internet, and client tracking software.
Skills
Ethical, professional, and committed to NJAC’s mission.
Strong relationship-building and communication skills.
Creative, innovative, and client-focused.
Team-oriented with leadership abilities.
Organized, decisive, and solution-oriented.
Benefits
Salary range: $43,000 - $50,000 FLSA Status: Exempt
Pay
$43,000 - $50,000 annually
Schedule
Standard work week with some evenings, weekends, and on-call rotation required
Benefits
Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement plan, paid time off, and more
Equal Opportunity Statement
NJAC is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. We welcome all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation, disability, age, marital status, sexual orientation, prior involvement in the criminal justice system, or other protected status.