Employment Specialist

Reports to:  Clinical Director 

Department: Workforce and Housing

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt   

Location: Onsite 

Hours: Monday to Friday, 8am to 4:30pm  

Position Summary 

The Employment Specialist helps adults experiencing homelessness (we refer to them as “guests”) access career opportunities that lead to stability and growth. This role provides personalized employment counseling, career readiness training, internships, and employer-led job placements that support long-term self-sufficiency. Working collaboratively with case managers, the Employment Specialist helps guests overcome barriers to employment and develop sustainable career pathways. The role also provides post-placement coaching and follow-up support to promote job retention, skill development, and long-term career advancement. 

Key Responsibilities 

Guest Support & Career Development 

• Conduct individualized assessments to evaluate participants’ skills, strengths, employment history, career interests, and potential barriers to employment, in order to develop effective service and employment plans 

• Provide career readiness coaching including resume development, interview preparation, workplace expectations, and professional communication. 

• Connect guests with internships, apprenticeships, and workforce training opportunities. 

• Conduct Work Bridge orientations. 

• Other duties as assigned. 

Employer Partnerships & Job Placement 

• Build and maintain relationships with local employers. 

• Assist guests with job searches, online applications and navigating job boards 

• Match guests with job opportunities aligned with their skills and goals. 

• Support both guests and employers during onboarding to ensure a successful transition into employment. 

Retention & Long-Term Support 

• Provide coaching after job placement to support retention and career growth. 

• Conduct follow-ups to monitor progress and address challenges. 

Program Coordination & Reporting 

• Collaborate with internal teams to connect guests to housing stabilization, behavioral health support, transportation assistance, and educational programs. 

• Maintain accurate case notes and employment outcomes. 

• Track retention benchmarks and prepare reports for program evaluation and funder requirements. 

Qualifications 

• Two years of experience in employment services, job placement, workforce development, or related field preferred. 

• Strong interpersonal and coaching skills. 

• Experience building partnerships with employers and community organizations. 

• Experience working with vulnerable populations preferred 

• Organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple priorities. 

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and case management systems 

The Successful Candidate: 

• Builds strong relationships with guests, employers, and community partners. 

• Demonstrates strong alignment with Advance’s mission and vision, and a commitment to serving individuals experiencing homelessness.  

• Compassionate and trauma-informed with a commitment to dignity, respect, and empowerment.  

• Strong coaching, motivational, and relationship-building skills  

• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and adaptability skills  

• Organized and proactive, with strong time management and the ability to meet deadlines  

• Professional, accountable, and able to work independently with minimal supervision 

• Prior experience in non-profit organizations preferred.  

Benefits   

• Hourly rate dependent on experience, beginning at $28/hour.  

• Paid time off plan begins at 2-weeks (10 days) per year.    

• Sick time accumulated at 1 hour for every 30 worked, up to 48 hours annually 

• 403(b) Retirement Savings plan with an employer match of 3% with a vesting schedule.     

• 10 paid Holidays.    

• Comprehensive Medical, Vision, and Dental Insurance coverage.    

Benefits & Perks:
We offer a competitive benefits package designed to support our employees both personally and professionally, including:

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Starting at two (2) weeks per year
• Retirement: 403(b) Retirement Savings Plan with a 3% employer match, subject to a vesting schedule
• Holidays: Ten (10) paid holidays annually

Work Environment:
This is a start-up environment that values high standards of accountability, mutual respect, perseverance in the face of new and evolving challenges, flexibility, and a commitment to continuous improvement. We also believe a sense of humor and the ability to have fun while doing meaningful work are essential to our culture.

Disclaimers:
*Colorado Residents: In any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.*

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. It is not designed to be a comprehensive listing of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.

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