At TURN our mission is Improving Lives. Our organization embraces the tenets of client-centered care, and our core values of Integrity, Diversity, Mentorship, and Inclusion are at the forefront of everything we do. We hire exceptional individuals seeking meaningful opportunities in a purpose-driven environment.

JOB SUMMARY

The Employment Specialist assists clients with training for, seeking, finding, and keeping viable jobs, both paid and volunteer. Helps clients achieve their employment goals by providing Supported Employment Individual Placement and Support (IPS) services to obtain and sustain competitive employment or apprenticeship, and/or start a business.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Reasonable accommodation may be made for individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

Engage clients, and establish trusting, collaborative relationships directed towards the goal of competitive employment in integrated job settings.

•            Facilitate Job Search activities and advocate for clients as needed to ensure work success.

•            Provide direct placement of clients in positions appropriate to skill level and personal needs.

•            Assess clients’ vocational functioning on an ongoing basis.

•            Follow IPS principles and procedures, and help clients in job development and job search activities directed towards positions that are consistent with their needs and interests.

•            Engage in the community (at least 60% of direct time) to identify and create opportunities for apprenticeships and small business development. Provide information to community agencies connected with mental health services to increase awareness of client employment needs.

•            Provide clients with guidance and support to start a business, including how to obtain a business license, develop a business plan and obtain required accreditations and documents.

•            Provide education and support to employers, including negotiating job accommodations and follow-along contact with employers.

•            Meet regularly with treatment team members to coordinate and integrate vocational services into mental health treatment.

•            Develop and update individual employment plans with clients and treatment team providers.

•            Provide expertise in areas related to work trends, employment models, potential employer profiles, and demographic data as needed.

•            Actively promote an integrated, regional system of care by participating in committees, on interagency teams and by attending meetings related to the field of employment.

•            Comply with all MHS and program rules, policies and procedures including HIPAA standards.

QUALIFICATIONS

•            Bachelor’s degree and four years of experience providing employment services to a similar population, OR High School diploma and six years of experience providing employment services to a similar population

•            Fluent in English required; bilingual in Spanish, Vietnamese, Tagalog, Arabic, or Farsi preferred

•            Personal experience as a recipient or caregiver of a recipient of behavioral health/social services preferred

•            Able to communicate effectively verbally and in writing

•            Training in IPS model desirable. Ability to incorporate prior learning to become educated in this model

•            Demonstrated familiarity with start-up business needs and requirements, such as obtaining business license, accessing tax forms and common marketing practices

•            Demonstrated familiarity with business operations and employment procedures; knowledgeable about marketing, sales and public relations

•            Knowledge of cultural and socio-economic factors that inform service provision to persons with psychiatric or dual diagnosis disorders.

•            Knowledge of Biopsychosocial Rehabilitation (BPSR), Comprehensive, Continuous, Integrated System of Care (CCICS), and cognitive/behavioral models

•            Ability to problem solve and react appropriately to emergency situations

•            Proficient with Microsoft Office and EHR software

•            Valid California driver’s license and current auto insurance per contract requirements

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

These physical demands represent what must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. As mentioned above, reasonable accommodation may be made for qualified disabilities.

☒ Seeing                                                                   ☒ Hearing                                                                 

☒ Speaking                                                              ☒ Stooping/Bending                              

☒ Working in cramped spaces                        ☒ Moving around facility

☒ Moving between offices/clients                 ☒ Driving – light errands                           

☐ Climbing                                                               ☒ Lifting/carrying heavy items   

☐ Driving – in the course of job duties          ☐ Using hands/fingers              

☐ Pushing/pulling/dragging items                  ☒ Standing for long periods                            

☒ Sitting for long periods                                   ☐ Working outside/underground

OTHER DUTIES

This job description isn’t a comprehensive list of activities, duties or responsibilities required for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

TURN is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), gender, gender expression, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, race, religious creed, and sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, and related medical conditions).