Vocational Specialist

The Vocational Specialist supports individuals in obtaining, maintaining, and advancing in competitive employment while promoting financial stability and long-term self-sufficiency. Working as part of the Assertive Community Treatment (ACT/ACT Plus) team, the Vocational Specialist develops relationships with community employers, facilitates job placement and retention, conducts vocational assessments, and provides coaching and support throughout the employment process. This position also assists individuals with financial literacy, benefits navigation, and individualized employment and rehabilitation planning to help them achieve their personal, educational, and career goals.

• Develops and maintains relationships with community employers to create employment opportunities for individuals served.
• Conducts vocational assessments using approved tools and evidence-based practices.
• Assists individuals in identifying educational, vocational, training, and employment opportunities aligned with their goals.
• Provides job development, placement, coaching, and ongoing employment support services.
• Collaborates with the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) and other community partners to coordinate services.
• Meets established performance benchmarks related to employment placements and program outcomes.
• Develops individualized employment, rehabilitation, and career advancement plans.
• Provides support with benefits navigation and financial stability planning.
• Educates individuals on the impact of employment earnings on public benefits and available work incentives.
• Delivers financial literacy education and guidance.
• Maintains accurate, timely, and compliant documentation of services provided.
• Develops and maintains job banks and employment resource networks.
• Assists individuals in identifying and overcoming employment barriers.
• Advocates for individuals in pursuing competitive, integrated community employment.
• Participates in interdisciplinary treatment team meetings.
• Maintains regular communication with employers, educational institutions, training providers, and community resources.
• Documents time worked accurately.
• Other duties as assigned by management.

• Adheres to all agency policies, procedures, and employee handbook requirements.
• Maintains confidentiality of all client and organizational information.
• Demonstrates professionalism, ethical conduct, and sound judgment.
• Complies with OSHA, HIPAA, fire safety, and applicable regulatory requirements.
• Completes and submits required reports, documentation, and Human Resources paperwork within established time frames.
• Attends all required trainings, meetings, and professional development activities.
• Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with individuals served, families, employers, staff, and community partners.
• Communicates effectively in both written and verbal forms.
• Participates in quality improvement activities and program development initiatives.
• Observes work schedules and maintains punctuality.
• Other duties as needed to support program operations.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's Degree in a relevant clinical, educational, rehabilitation, vocational, social service, or human services field required.
• Minimum one (1) year experience in a behavioral health, rehabilitation, vocational, or related setting preferred.
• Three (3) years of related experience and documented in-service training may be substituted for formal education requirements.
• Sales, marketing, workforce development, or employer engagement experience preferred.
• CPR and First Aid Certification required or obtainable upon hire.
• Experience working with underserved populations preferred.
• Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record.
• Minimum three (3) years of continuous driving experience.

Required Skills

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong organizational and time management abilities.
• Effective documentation and recordkeeping skills.
• Ability to work effectively with individuals experiencing mental health, substance use, and co-occurring disorders.
• Ability to work effectively with diverse populations.
• Ability to assess individual needs and connect clients with appropriate resources.
• Ability to maintain professional boundaries and ethical standards.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to adapt to changing environments and client needs.
• Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors, leadership, and community partners.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and electronic record systems.

Effective Communication

Demonstrates the ability to communicate professionally and effectively with individuals served, team members, employers, and community stakeholders.

Employment & Vocational Support

Supports individuals in obtaining, maintaining, and advancing in competitive employment opportunities.

Interpersonal Effectiveness

Builds and maintains productive relationships with individuals served, employers, coworkers, and…