Vocational Specialist HPS Project (Housing Problem Solving)

POSITION SUMMARY

As part of the HPS project, CHOICES is looking for two vocational specialists to assist consumers in gaining meaningful employment to help sustain their housing once housed.

CHOICES is a client-centered, recovery-oriented behavioral health service delivery model.

Vocational Specialists are members of a team who provide flexible, community-based services that are designed to promote the stability, recovery and community reintegration of formerly homeless individuals who have a mental illness and abuse substances. The Vocational Specialist performs routine team duties, while integrating vocational goals and services with the tasks of all team members. This staff member provides needed assistance through all phases of the vocational service.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

(Responsibilities, Accountabilities, and Competencies; May not include all duties of this job)

A. JOB DUTIES

Collaborate with client in the formulation of a plan and see what is needed for employment to sustain housing.

Provide outreach, case management, advocacy, and other needed services to clients in any environment including: the streets, shelters, prisons, hospitals, apartments, office, etc.

Provide individually tailored services to each client in the following areas: school, training & work opportunities, activities of daily living, health,

Maintain written and computerized records compile reports and complete other program documentation (e.g., , incident reports, on-call logs, letters) whether in writing or in the HMIS system.

Organize and participate in social activities with clients in the community.

Coordinate and monitor referrals to community services and advocate client participation.

Perform related work as assigned.

Assist clients to prepare for and find employment.

Provide vocational information and technical assistance for other CHOICES staff.

Develop & strengthen relationships with employers & vocational support agencies.

This job requires you to be out in the public during the Pandemic. It is advised that if you are at high risk in getting COVID – 19, do NOT apply. You will be given proper PPE for this position, but there is still risk involved.

B. CORE VALUES

Demonstrate personal and interpersonal qualities that support the core values and mission of CHOICES, Inc. Have an unwavering belief in the power and possibility of recovery and absolutely believe that all individuals can lead full, rich and productive lives.

MISSION: Consumers having ownership in creating effective services (CHOICES)

PRINCIPLES OF RECOVERY:

Recovery is holistic, embraces culture, supported by peers, self-directed, springs from hope, and is a reality.

Rehabilitation services are person-centered, involve family and friends, anchored in the community, strength-based, use peer supports and honor partnerships.

CORE VALUES: Services are flexible, comprehensive, wellness driven and effective

REQUIRED ESSENTIAL JOB QUALIFICATIONS:

1. High School Diploma or GED

2. Degree in Human Services OR experience of job qualifiiations

3. Patience, creativity, flexibility, compassion and sensitivity to persons with disabilities and other minority populations

4. Responsible, organized, efficient.

5. Career experience in social services, supported housing, or with persons with disabilities.

6. Excellent communication, writing, and computer skills.

7. Minimum one year training and/or experience in job finding, employment counseling or vocational rehabilitation preferred, but not required.

8. Non-credentialed individuals or consumers with appropriate experience may qualify.

9. High level of confidentiality and ability to work with different personalities on all different levels

10. Knowledge with Microsoft Suite and Outlook

11. Able to pass an extensive state and federal background check

12. Knowledge of HMIS systems preferred but not required

13. Negative TB test results

14. Valid AK drivers license with 5 years clean driving record

15. Excellent typing skills and knowledge of office equipment (fax machine, photocopier, etc.) use and maintenance

16. Able to do Soar (SSI/SSDI Outreach, Access, and Recovery) training within 6 months of hire date if needed for this position.

We are an EEO, AA, and ADA employer

This Job Description reflects CHOICES, Inc.’s best effort to describe the essential functions and qualifications of the job described. It is not an exhaustive statement of all the duties, responsibilities, or qualifications of the job. This document is not intended to exclude an opportunity for modifications consistent with providing reasonable accommodation. This is not intended to be a contract. Your signature indicates you have read this Job Description and understand the essential functions and essential qualifications of the job.

Duties performed are typically in a community setting. Frequent sitting. Long periods of standing and walking. Some lifting of 50 lbs or less and some stooping, squatting and bending

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.