Employment Specialist- Hillside

Job title: Employment Specialist- Hillside in Hillside, IL at Aspire Chicago

Company: Aspire Chicago

Job description: Description:Employment Specialist - Empowering Inclusive EmploymentJoin Aspire and make a lasting impact.Are you driven to help individuals reach their employment goals in inclusive, community-based settings? Do you want to support adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities as they pursue meaningful careers and thrive in the workforce? At Aspire, we're looking for compassionate, motivated professionals to join our mission-and your work here will make a real difference.As an Employment Specialist, you will be a key member of our integrated training and employment team. You'll provide direct support to individuals preparing for and maintaining competitive employment, while also partnering with businesses to promote inclusive workplace practices. This is more than a job-it's an opportunity to create lasting change.What We Offer:

• Referral bonuses
• Paid training
• Comprehensive health and insurance benefits
• Retirement plan with matching contributions
• Paid time off
• Hybrid work arrangements (onsite and remote)
• And more (see full benefits below)

Role Summary:The Employment Specialist supports adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in obtaining and retaining competitive employment in integrated community settings. Reporting to the Director of Community Employment, you'll assist job seekers in developing individualized employment plans, provide direct coaching and support, and help employers foster inclusive environments. You will also participate in consulting projects to expand inclusive hiring practices across industries.Key Responsibilities:

• Guide individuals through personalized job-seeking plans, including resume building, job applications, interview preparation, and networking.
• Manage a caseload of job seekers and maintain accurate case documentation.
• Conduct assessments to determine each individual's skills and job match potential.
• Develop and implement Individual Placement Plans tailored to client goals.
• Document all activity and progress through reports, notes, and evaluations.
• Collaborate with team members, referral sources, and employers.
• Stay informed about local job market trends and opportunities.
• Promote Aspire's employment services to potential business and community partners.
• Assist individuals in securing employment through effective job matching.
• Conduct job analyses to understand workplace dynamics and expectations.
• Provide ongoing support and coaching on-site, including natural supports and adaptive tools (e.g., visual aids, checklists).
• Act as a liaison between employer and employee to ensure placement success.
• Support individuals with transportation training and travel as needed.
• Participate in inclusive employment consulting and help employers create more inclusive workplaces.
• Plan for gradual fade-out of support to foster independence.
• Provide long-term retention and job sustainability support.

Qualifications:

• Passion for supporting individuals with disabilities in achieving employment success.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Experience in employment services, coaching, human services, or related field preferred.
• Ability to manage multiple responsibilities and maintain detailed records.
• Comfortable working independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Willingness to travel locally and provide transportation support when necessary.

Work Environment:
This position offers a hybrid schedule, combining in-person support and remote work flexibility. Employment Specialists may be required to travel within the community to support clients and meet with employers.Make an Impact with Aspire.If you're ready to be part of a mission-driven organization that values inclusion, empowerment, and professional growth, we encourage you to apply today. Requirements:Required Education & Experience:

• High school diploma or GED
• 3 years of related work experience

Additional Licensing/Certifications:

• Valid driver's license (Illinois, Indiana Wisconsin) with good driving record

Required Skills, Knowledge & Abilities:

• Ability to obtain and maintain PACE certification
• Effective oral and written communication skills; ability to write reports
• Ability to maintain confidential information
• Ability to deal tactfully, engaging and courteously with Individuals, employees at all levels, families and the general public

Preferred Skills, Knowledge & Abilities:

• Bachelor's degree in related field preferred
• Experience working with adults with intellectual and other developmental disabilities.

Voted as one of the 101 Best and Brightest Companies to work for in Chicago!We know that Together, We're Better!Aspire was founded in 1960 and is recognized as a leader in providing bold, pioneering, and uncompromising services to adults with developmental disabilities, their families, and the community. In 2019, we joined forces with NorthPointe Resources to be one of the most recognized and respected disability service providers across the Chicago metropolitan area, Lake County (Illinois), and southeastern Wisconsin areas.Full-Time Benefits (regularly schedule to work more than 37 1/2 hours per week)

• Health Insurance
• Benefit Time (Vacation, Sick, Personal)
• 13 Holidays
• 403(B) Retirement Savings Plan with matching contribution
• Disability Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Voluntary Insurances available

Aspire's priority is keeping our team members and participants healthy and safe. PPE is provided and regular cleaning and disinfecting regiments are followed to maintain a safe work and living environment. Hand sanitizer is available throughout our facilities.Aspire is an equal employment opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.Aspire is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for applicants with disabilities so that an applicant may complete the essential functions of a position. The essential functions of positions are outlined in a position's job description. To request an accommodation or if you have a question regarding what the essential functions of a position are please contact the People Team at .Career SpecialistEmployment SupportEmployment Development SpecialistLake CountySocial ServicesRecruitingPIaa1fc659fa54-8392

Expected salary:

Location: Hillside, IL

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