Employment Specialist

Columbus House, Inc.
Job Posting: Full Time (32 hours/week), FLSA Non-Exempt, Non-Essential
Employment Specialist

VEVRAA Federal Contractor: Priority Referrals of Protected Veterans Requested 

Company Overview & Mission 

Columbus House opened its doors in 1982 to provide services for men and women at least 18 years of age. Our goals quickly broadened from the mere provision of food and shelter and simple survival, to understanding and working toward overcoming the problems which cause people to become homeless. 

 
Columbus House, along with its core of loyal supporters, friends, and volunteers, has remained committed to fulfilling its mission: "To serve people experiencing homelessness or at imminent risk by providing life-saving outreach, shelter and housing and by fostering their personal growth and independence. We advocate for and create affordable housing to end homelessness in our communities." 

Purpose 

Under the purview of the Employment and Benefits Manager, Employment Specialists assist consumers in obtaining employment by creating job opportunities in the community and/or furthering their career. The Employment Specialist will be responsible for running the Employment Enrichment Center (EEC) program and coordinating coverage. Employment Specialist works to empower and encourage consumers to reach financial independence by imparting relevant skills as necessary.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide linkage to resources for clients who may be at risk of eviction, in addition to community resources for social, mental health, educational, vocational, entitlements/benefits, and or substance abuse services. 
• Ability to communicate efficiently and effectively with individuals served. 
• Able to advocate for clients as well as support self-advocacy.
• Must be able to set and maintain boundaries and adhere to confidentiality. 
• May provide transportation to job interviews for clients at the discretion of the Employment Specialist on a case-by-case basis.
• Coordinate and collaborate with Case Managers, other agencies.
• Develop mutually relationships with employers and assist those consumers that might need further assistance for retention purposes.
• Ability to understand and accept different backgrounds while providing a non-judgmental approach to rendering services. 
• Attending weekly and monthly agency, program and network meetings with Case Managers.
• Temporary Case Load coverage as determined by program needs.
• Monitor all cases assigned and complete all documentation/charting required by Columbus House
  • Expected to complete a variety of high-quality documentation (CARF Accredited, DHMAS funded, Etc.)
  • Experience with HMIS (Homeless Management Information System) or ability to become proficient in database systems.
  • Create strength-based person-centered service plans.
  • Complete all required assessments both electronic and in written form. 
• Other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Excellent organizational and time management skills with a deadline-oriented mindset
• Strong written and oral communication skills employing the English language.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and other common desktop and online applications
• Knowledge of and ability to effectively navigate substance abuse, mental health, and social services networks.
• Familiar with criminal justice barriers and able to engage, motivate, and support the individuals serviced. 
• Familiar with mental health, substance abuse and dual diagnosis issues and group dynamics
•  Basic knowledge of all aspects of the delivery of person-centered case management
• Able to meet all documentation requirements within set timeframes. 
• Knowledgeable of crisis intervention, boundaries, confidentiality, universal precautions, risk assessment, and motivational interviewing.
• Ability to create professional and respectful relationships with clients, outside providers, employers, and the community. 
• Empathetic and compassionate with individuals that have experienced homelessness and factors that lead to homelessness. 
• Valid drivers’ license with a good driving history

Supervised by: Employment and Benefits Manager

Schedule: Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday, 8:30 AM–4:30 PM; Thursday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM.

Salary range: $25.50-$27.50 

Benefits 

• Medical, dental, and vision benefits are offered along with other additional voluntary coverages with full-time employment
• 401 K retirement plan with employer matching contribution
• Paid time off 
• 10 paid holidays

Ways to Apply

Please apply using one of the following methods:

• Apply online at www.columbushouse.org
• Email your resume to hr@columbushouse.org
• Stop by 586 Ella Grasso Blvd, New Haven, CT 06519 to complete an application in person.

Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer: Protected Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities Encouraged to Apply