Employment Specialist- Hillside

Description

Employment Specialist – Empowering Inclusive Employment

Join 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,