Community Integrated Employment Specialist (Chicago)

Description : Summary :

Make a real difference in peoples lives by helping individuals with developmental and other disabilities achieve meaningful, competitive employment. As an Employment Specialist, you'll play a key role in supporting both high school students and adults in finding jobs that align with their strengths, interests, and goals. Youll work closely with community employers to build lasting partnerships and create inclusive workplaces that benefit everyone.

Why This Role Matters :

This is more than just a job it's a chance to empower others, foster community inclusion, and create life-changing opportunities. Youll work at the intersection of social impact and workforce development, helping members navigate their career journeys with dignity and purpose.

Key Responsibilities :

• Champion Employment Goals : Help individuals identify and pursue career paths that reflect their talents and aspirations.
• Develop Community Partnerships : Build and maintain relationships with local employers through weekly outreach (at least 6 in-person contacts), networking, and job development efforts.
• Personalized Job Matching : Create customized job orders and coordinate interviews to connect members with the right employment opportunities.
• Engage Members Directly : Meet with new clients for intake and collaborate with staff and members to align employment services with career goals.
• Support Job Readiness : Conduct mock interviews, provide coaching on workplace etiquette, and assist with onboarding (including attire and grooming).
• Track Progress : Maintain detailed records, follow up with employers, and manage documentation in compliance with DRS and other funders.
• Stay Ahead of the Curve : Participate in ongoing training in the IPS (Individual Placement and Support) model and become proficient in Quantum and other tools.
• Be a Community Advocate : Represent the organization at business and community events, helping to raise awareness and build inclusive hiring networks.

What You Bring :

Work Environment & Expectations :

Perks of the Role :

If youre looking for a rewarding career where every day brings purpose, connection, and the opportunity to change lives wed love to meet you!

Requirements : QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and / or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EDUCATION, SKILLS, and / or EXPERIENCE

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, physical requirements may include standing, walking, and sitting; seeing; hearing and listening; clear speech; dexterity and use of hands and fingers. Must be able to push, pull, and lift 15lbs.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment described here is representative of that an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

The noise level in the work environment is usually low - moderate. The work environment may include any or all of the following : working alone; working with others, verbal contact with others and face-to-face contact.

Envision Unlimited provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment 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.

Compensation details : 43000-47000 Yearly Salary

PI2cd5e7a06a8c-31181-38455458