Community Employment Manager, Joseph Koenig Sr., Training Center

Make an Impact: Community Employment Manager

Organization:Shore Community Services, Inc.

Location:Skokie, IL & Surrounding Communities (Local travel required; mileage reimbursed)

Reports To: Chief Program Officer

Position Type: Full-Time | Exempt

$65,000-$68,000

About the Role

Are you a results-driven workforce development leader passionate about creating competitive, integrated employment opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities?

As our Community Employment Manager, you will drive program growth, forge strong business partnerships, oversee state contracts, and directly empower both job seekers and your team to achieve meaningful long-term employment outcomes. You will lead program intake, maintain a streamlined direct caseload, manage state contract compliance (IDHS-DRS and DDD), and supervise dedicated Employment Specialists.

Why Join Shore Community Services?

• Purpose-Driven Mission: Direct and shape programs that transform lives through meaningful community inclusion and employment.
• Leadership & Strategy: Combine hands-on client advocacy with high-level program administration, contract management, and team leadership.
• Collaborative Culture: Work directly with executive leadership, local employers, school transition programs, and state partners.

Key Responsibilities

• Program Leadership & Growth: Drive annual placement and referral goals, track contract utilization, and expand employer partnerships across the community.
• Intake & Caseload Management: Own program intake and assessments (DRS Assessments & IPPs) while actively guiding a focused caseload through job readiness, placement, and retention support.
• Team Supervision: Mentor, schedule, and supervise Employment Specialists, leading weekly team strategy meetings and onboarding team members.
• Contract & Quality Administration: Manage IDHS-DRS Milestone, SEP, and DDD 36U contract structures, ensuring compliance, timely monthly billing, and audit readiness (CARF/DRS).

Qualifications We Are Looking For

Required:

• Education & Experience: Bachelor's degree in rehabilitation, human services, business, or a related field (or equivalent experience), plus 3 to 5 years of experience in supported employment, job development, or vocational rehabilitation working with persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
• Proven Track Record: Demonstrated history of successful competitive integrated placements and retention outcomes (a placement summary with professional references will be requested).
• Compliance & DSP Status: Ability to meet and maintain Illinois DHS/DDD Direct Support Person (DSP) requirements for 36U delivery/billing.
• Mobility & Transportation: Valid driver's license, reliable personal vehicle for daily local travel to employer sites and meetings and required liability insurance.

Preferred:

• Supervisory Experience: 2+ years supervising workforce or employment services staff.
• Contract Expertise: Hands-on experience with IDHS-DRS Milestone/SEP contracts and DDD Supported Employment (36U) billing.

Shore Community Services, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.