Supported Employment Specialist

GENERAL SUMMARY:

Supported Employment Specialists assist consumers, with diagnosed mental health needs, to obtain and sustain employment that is consistent with their vocational goals and recovery. Supported Employment Specialists engage consumers and establish trusting, collaborative relationships directed toward the goal of competitive employment in integrated job settings. The Supported Employment Specialist will manage a caseload of consumers and work with other mental health, care coordination and treatment providers to implement comprehensive plans for individuals seeking to increase their independence.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Follows all Supported Employment principles and procedures.
• Assesses consumers' vocational functioning on ongoing basis.
• Deliver services utilizing the IPS (Individual Placement & Support) and other employment models.
• Adhere to program funded sources requirements (CCS, DVR, etc.)
• Helps consumers in job development and job search activities directed toward positions that are consistent with consumers' needs and interests;
• Provides individualized, time unlimited, follow-along services to help consumers sustain employment.
• Based on agreement with consumers, provides education and support to employers, which may include negotiating job accommodations and follow-along contact with employers;
• Provides outreach services to consumers, as necessary, when they appear to disengage from SE services;
• Meets regularly with treatment team members to coordinate and integrate vocational services into the mental health treatment plan;
• Creates individual employment plans with Consumers, Care Coordinators, Case Managers, and other treatment team providers and updates the plans accordingly.
• Spends at least 65 percent of direct service time in the community to engage and support consumers, natural supports, and employers.
• Participates in Individual Placement and Support (IPS) training and collaborative groups to maintain model fidelity
• Utilize the tools in IPS training to provide basic training to key stakeholders.
• Markets and represents St. Charles and Supported Employment programming in a positive and professional manner.

• Works with the consumer's treatment team to establish measurable outcomes and identify ways to reduce system or employment barriers.
• Works to build inroads with business leaders and employers.
• Ensure the maintenance of files and electronic databases that reflect the current status of consumers.
• Completes client data, performance reports and other documentation as required.
• Produce and/or approve reports for funding sources as designated.
• Know and adhere to all internal and external guidelines, including agency policy and procedure, child labor law, work-study rules, Council on Accreditation and any other that apply.
• Other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

• Bachelor's Degree in Human Services, Social Work, or related field required ,. Master's Degree preferred
• Bilingual and/or; able to communicate in other languages a plus.
• At least one year of experience with vocational services, working in a Mental Health and/or Social Services related setting and knowledge of the work world desired.
• Knowledge of individual and family issues and dynamics
• Certification and familiar with delivery of services utilizing the IPS model highly preferred.
• Ability to work as an effective team player.
• Outstanding verbal and written communication skills.
• Skilled in evidence-based practices, i.e. IPS, motivational interviewing, etc.
• Able to work outside of the office and some evening and weekend hours
• Able to collaborate with family members, the community, other service providers, and workforce development partners.
• Ability to work independently & conduct self in an ethical manner.
• Ability to maintain professional and respectful relationships with program staff, individuals receiving services and all external persons and agencies involved with service provision
• Possesses sensitivity toward cultural, ethnic, and disability issues.
• Possesses active listening and positive communication skills;
• Demonstrates good computer skills; accurate documentation & ability to meet deadlines;
• Knowledge of substance use issues and mental health needs.
• Ability to gather data, compile information and prepare quality reports.
• Valid Wisconsin Driver's License and proof of liability insurance.
• Ability to use vehicles for work related duties according to the agency's insurance requirements.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• In a typical office environment, training area, at job sites or in the community.
• Local travel required, ~65%, as necessary to fulfill key staff responsibilities.