Employment Specialist

Employment Specialist

Full Time – New Haven, CT, US

Salary: $23.15/hour

Schedule:

40 hours/week, Monday–Friday, 6:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m., with some flexibility.

Chapel Haven Schleifer Center is an award‑winning nonprofit devoted to empowering adults with disabilities to live independent and self‑determined lives. We believe self‑advocacy supports growth and collaborate with individuals to create services that foster independence. In 2022 we celebrated 50 years of excellence in the field of disabilities and continue our dedication to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace.

• Comprehensive benefits
  :
  Full‑time employees receive a complete benefits package, including paid time off and tuition reimbursement.
• Flexible opportunities
  :
  Part‑time employees enjoy a flexible schedule, valuable hands‑on experience, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of the individuals we support. Select benefits may also be available.
• Room for growth
  :
  We offer a professional yet warm and welcoming workplace with opportunities for career advancement.
• Staff longevity and development
  :
  Over 50% of our staff have been with us for 5+ years, many of whom started in entry‑level roles and have grown into fulfilling, long‑term careers spanning 10+ years.
• A culture of community and compassion
  :
  We take pride in our strong sense of community, teamwork, and dedication to making a difference in the lives of those we serve.

Career Ability at Chapel Haven Schleifer Center was created to support meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. The Employment Specialist is a lead job coach responsible for supporting individuals across all aspects of employment services, including job development, training, retention, volunteering, and vocational discovery. This role supports individuals in customized and supported employment settings while also assisting those building pre‑vocational skills.

A key part of this role includes building strong relationships with both individuals and employers to ensure successful, long‑term job placements.

The Employment Specialist provides on‑the‑job coaching, teaches and models job skills, supports workplace adjustment, and completes required documentation including progress notes, task analyses, and reports.

• Provide job coaching and stabilization support in one‑on‑one and small group settings.
• Teach and model job tasks to support skill development and job performance.
• Support job retention and successful workplace integration.
• Maintain regular communication with employers, individuals served, and key stakeholders.
• Provide on‑the‑job training and travel training as needed.
• Transport individuals to job sites and community‑based employment locations using a Chapel Haven van, as needed.
• Assist with transportation when public options are not available.
• Support job development and community‑based employment opportunities as needed.
• Advocate for individuals’ strengths, needs, and accommodations in the workplace.
• Complete all required documentation, including progress notes, reports, Setworks entries, and billing.
• Collaborate with Career Transition Specialists and other team members.

• Experience working with adults with developmental disabilities and/or autism spectrum disorders preferred.
• Strong communication, writing, teaching, and organizational skills.
• Ability to balance the needs of both employers and individuals served.
• Independent problem‑solving skills and ability to manage varied assignments.
• Proficiency with Word, Excel, web‑based systems, and databases.
• High level of integrity and commitment to CHSC values.
• Valid driver’s license, reliable personal vehicle, and acceptable driving record required.
• Public Service License (PSL) preferred or ability to obtain.

• ACRE endorsement in Customized Employment.
• CESP certification or experience in employment support services.
• Knowledge of Employment First principles and customized employment practices.

Do not meet every single requirement? Studies have shown that women, LGBTQ+, and people of color are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. If you are excited about this role but your experience does not align perfectly, we encourage you to apply. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles at Chapel Haven!

Dynamic Diversity – Caring Collaboration – Individual Integrity – Community Connection

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.