Employment Specialist

NEW FC EMPLOYEES ELIGIBLE FOR $2,000 BONUS

Position Description:

Foundation Communities' supportive housing communities provide affordable housing and supportive services to individuals, many of whom have histories of homelessness, mental health, chronic disease or other disabling conditions, criminal histories, extensive absences from the work force and other barriers to employment. While the primary responsibilities of the Employment Specialist will be job training, support, job search assistance and placement, they will also work extensively with FC's Supported Employment program.

Primary Duties/Responsibilities:

• Train residents in effective interviewing skills, resume writing, and hard and soft job skills. Make job referrals, assist with job applications, and facilitate job placements. Train residents in computer skills, use of online job search platforms, assist with food handler's certificate training, and other training to be competitive in today's job market.

• The Supported Employment Program aids residents facing barriers to employment (e.g., absence from the workforce, mental health challenges, criminal background issues). Conduct intake and assessment for each Supported Employee (SE)/resident job seeker. Collaborate with SEs to develop individualized job development plans based on interests, strengths, needs, deficits, and goals related to employment.

• Assist the Program Manager in recruiting and screening Supported Employment candidates. Train and support SE participants, including working alongside SE employees in their positions. Periodically, fill in for SEs, including pick-up and delivery of food pantry items, distributing and sorting food.

• Network with business leaders in the community to identify, develop and secure employment opportunities for individuals.

• Establish ongoing communication with residents to determine areas of need. Ensure resident-driven services that emphasize choice, flexibility, community integration, and cultural and linguistic competence. Collaborate with the onsite resident services team to support client goals.

• Complete case notes in agency database and maintain accurate documentation, to include employment consultation documents, job search logs, resumes, case notes, and other documentation as specified.

Minimum Requirements:

• At least one year's experience with Supported Employment, Job Development, Workforce Development or similar required.

• Must be approachable and possess strong interpersonal skills to effectively communicate and build rapport with people from diverse backgrounds and ability levels.

• Must have a high degree of computer/technical skills and be proficient in Microsoft Products and web navigation.

• Demonstrate patience and understanding for individuals who have barriers to employment.

• Show leadership, initiative, work independently, and find creative solutions to complex problems while remaining calm under pressure.

• Demonstrate experience communicating and cooperating effectively with a wide array of partners and potential employers.

• Must have valid Texas Driver's License, current state registration, and a good driving record and ability to operate a vehicle.

• Must be able to lift and carry 25-50 pounds repeatedly.

Working Conditions/Physical Requirements:

Physical demands: While performing the duties of this job, the employee frequently is required to stand, walk, and sit. The employee is frequently required to use hands and must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus and to safely operate a vehicle.

Work environment: The work conditions usually take place in an office-type setting in supportive housing communities.

Compensation

$24 - $27/hour

This position profile identifies the key responsibilities and expectations for performance. It cannot encompass all specific job tasks that an employee may be required to perform. Employees are required to follow any other job-related instructions and perform job-related duties as may be reasonably assigned by his/her supervisor.

Foundation Communities provides an excellent benefits package including employer paid health benefits, 401(k) investment opportunity, Employee Assistance Program, paid vacation, holiday, and sick time.

Foundation Communities is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation & gender identity.