Employment Specialist

Employment Specialist

If you are driven by a desire to make a meaningful difference in your community and shape brighter futures, Help Group is the organization for you! We're one of the largest nonprofits of our kind in the U.S., offering diverse programs for individuals and families affected by autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, developmental delays, abuse, mental health, and social-emotional challenges. We offer unparalleled academic programs, mental health support, therapy, life coaching, vocational training, specialized social and residential programs, and resources for LGBTQ+ youth and families. These initiatives touch the lives of over 6,000 clients a year and continue to expand in reach and impact. At the heart of Help Group's mission is a steadfast commitment to empowering individuals to reach their full potential and live positive, productive, and fulfilling lives. We invite passionate professionals to join us in supporting the development of our students, clients, and residents as we grow! Here, you'll find not just a job, but an opportunity to grow your career in a deeply rewarding environment!

Help Group prepares teens and adults for success in the workplace through a range of skill and confidence-building services. Participants receive career assessments, employment coaching, and hands-on job experience, with opportunities available both on-site and in the community. Our programs are designed to assist both Help Group students and individuals from the broader community. Whether someone is exploring career interests for the first time or building skills to re-enter the workforce, our employment specialists and support teams provide guidance, structure, and encouragement throughout their journey.

Position Details:

• Location: Palmdale
• Full-Time: Monday – Friday 9:00 – 5:30

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with consumers, families, educators, therapists, vocational counselors, and community partners to develop individualized employment plans and support successful job outcomes
• Prepare participants for employment by providing job readiness training, coordinating work experiences, and matching clients with appropriate paid and unpaid job opportunities
• Develop relationships with community employers, identify job placements, conduct worksite analyses, and support job development and placement efforts
• Monitor participant progress through on-site job coaching, employer communication, performance evaluations, progress reporting, and planned transition/fading from job sites
• Maintain accurate, confidential client records, meet documentation and productivity standards, collect client satisfaction data, and participate in required meetings and trainings
• Respond to behavioral crises using CPI techniques when necessary while demonstrating strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills in supporting clients and employers

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree preferred, but not required
• Valid California driver’s license with a clean driving record
• Education and experience in mental health, social services, business, or a related field preferred
  
• 2 years of direct experience supporting individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities
• Job development experience is preferred, with the ability to support employment and career readiness
• Strong organizational, time management, attention to detail, and interpersonal skills, with the energy to thrive in a fast-paced environment
• Bilingual Spanish is highly desirable

Benefits

Help Group offers wonderful training opportunities, a supportive, professional work environment, and great benefits, including:   

• Insurance plans for Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance -options for 100% employer sponsored plans
• 403b Retirement Plan    
• 529 College Savings Plan
• Employee Assistance Program
• Flexible Spending Account    
• Vacation and Sick Leave
• Benefit Hub -Employee Rewards and Incentives
• Pet Insurance