Lifeworks is seeking a full-time Employment Specialist 2. This role involves working closely with individuals with disabilities to assist them in securing and maintaining employment, as well as managing a caseload of individuals at various stages of their careers. The ideal candidate will be well-versed in Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) 245D and 9554 regulations, CARF standards, Vocational Rehabilitation (VRS) policies, and the E1MN framework. This position requires a commitment to high standards of service delivery, collaboration within a multidisciplinary team, and ongoing professional development. Position Title: Employment Specialist 2Department: MankatoHours: Full-time; 40 hours/week, Monday - Friday (non-exempt)Location: Lifeworks Services - MankatoCompensation: $20.00/hr.+Sign on bonus: up to $1,500 (to be paid out at 60 days and 120 days of employment)What we offer employees:Lifeworks offers a comprehensive benefits package which includes:
- 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)
Why Work at LifeworksLifeworks is an industry leader on the forward edge of partnering with people with disabilities in innovative, person-centered ways. Disability inclusion is our true north, guiding every service we provide and ensuring that people with disabilities have opportunities, can thrive, and defy expectations. The Lifeworks Team is collaborative, passionate, and strategic, using a person-centered approach to increase access in our communities.You'll succeed in this role if you:
- Are passionate about working at a mission-driven organization which promotes self-determination and choice for people with disabilities.
- Enjoy developing innovative opportunities which enhance everyday lives.
- Seek out diverse perspectives and are willing to learn with and from others.
- Are engaged by supporting others in building new skills, exploring their interests, and meeting their goals.
- Are flexible and like working in a fast-paced environment which can change day to day.
- Can communicate effectively both through writing and speaking with others.
- Are tech savvy and familiar with video meeting software, like Zoom, and Microsoft Office products like Outlook, Word, and Microsoft Teams.
- Are open to learning new skills which will help you be successful in this role and expand your career opportunities.
How you'll be spending your time:
- 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. Provide 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. May be asked to provide job search opportunities to find individual a job of their own.
- Utilizing the E1MN framework to ensure effective and person-centered services. Collaborate 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 client 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 report 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. Perform other duties as assigned.
Requirements
- Capable of performing the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodations.
- Ability to meet the standards of a Designated Coordinator.
- Ability to understand and communicate written and verbal directions.
- Regular attendance, reliability and punctuality is necessary to meet the needs of the business. Ability to work flexible hours to meet the needs of the business.
- Well organized with excellent attention to detail.
- Aptitude to work independently with excellent time management skills.
- Experience working effectively with others to reach common goals and objectives.
- Skilled at establishing and cultivating strong relationships.
- Ability to take initiative and strengthen relationships with current and new community.
- 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.).
Education and Experience
- Associate degree & 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
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. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, familial status; genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law. Lifeworks Services is an equal opportunity employer, and we encourage members of diverse groups to apply.