Employment Specialist II - West Metro

Job DutiesLifeworks is hiring a full-time Employment Specialist II to support adults with disabilities in finding meaningful employment and provide on-the-job coaching for those already working in the community. In this role, youu2019ll manage a caseload, attend intakes and annual meetings, complete required documentation, and collaborate with individuals and their support teams to deliver person-centered planning and services that empower success.Position Title: Employment Specialist IIDepartment: Employment ServicesHours: Full-time; 40 hours/week, Monday u2013 Friday (non-exempt)Location: Lifeworks Services u2013 Hennepin and Anoka CountiesCompensation: $20 - $21.50 per hourSign on bonus: up to $1,500 (to be paid out at 60 days and 120 days of employment)Bonus Eligible: YearlyWhy Work at LifeworksLifeworks is an industry leader on the forward edge of partnering with people with disabilities in innovative, person-centered ways. Disability inclusion is our true north, guiding every service we provide and ensuring that people with disabilities have opportunities, can thrive, and defy expectations. The Lifeworks Team is collaborative, passionate, and strategic, using a person-centered approach to increase access in our communities.Youu2019ll succeed in this role if you:-Are capable of performing the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodations.-Meet the standards of a Designated Coordinator.-Understand and communicate written and verbal directions.-Have regular attendance, reliability and punctuality is necessary to meet the needs of the business.-Are well organized with excellent attention to detail.-Work independently with excellent time management skills.-Work effectively with others to reach common goals and objectives.-Establish and cultivate strong relationships.-Take initiative and strengthen relationships with current and new community partners.-Must pass a background study with the Department of Human Services, a drug test, clean driving record and have reliable transportation to use for work driving purposes (e.g., in-office, on-site training locations, etc.).How youu2019ll be spending your time:-Managing a caseload of individuals with disabilities at various stages of their careers, including those seeking employment, those in early career stages, and those needing support to maintain or advance in their current jobs. Providing direct support and guidance to individuals with disabilities in securing competitive, integrated employment. Providing follow-up and ongoing support to ensure individuals maintain employment and meet their professional goals.-Supporting clients in navigating workplace challenges, advocating for reasonable accommodations when necessary, and fostering positive relationships with employers.-Initiating, developing, and maintaining relationships and community contacts to increase access to the most inclusive employment and social opportunities for individuals. Providing job search opportunities as needed to help individuals obtain employment of their choosing.-Utilizing the E1MN framework to ensure effective and person-centered services. Collaborating with Vocational Rehabilitation counselors, employers, and community partners to enhance employment opportunities for individuals.-Developing and implementing individualized employment and support plans that align with clientsu2019 goals and preferences, in accordance with MN DHS 245D, Rule 9554 guidelines, VRS policies, and Extended Employment policies. Tracking and documenting client progress, ensuring compliance with applicable policies, including CARF standards, and reporting on outcomes.-Training other staff to implement outcomes, goals, and support strategies. Ensuring adherence to all relevant policies, including but not limited to DHS 245D, 9554, and CARF guidelines.-Arranging and/or providing necessary transportation to and from businesses and community locations in conjunction with other staff and team members.-Managing billable time and ensuring billing is completed accurately and timely.-Attending regular team meetings, training sessions, and professional development opportunities to stay informed on best practices, policy changes, and service delivery standards.-Following safety procedures and assisting in identifying safety needs for self and others. Performing other duties as assigned.Equity Statement:Lifeworks strives to be radically accessible, diverse, equitable, and inclusive. We appreciate the vibrancy of differences, center the voices of silenced and marginalized people, and champion universal rights.Lifeworks Services is committed to hiring people from a variety of diverse cultures with diverse life experiences. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, familial status; genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.Lifeworks Services is an equal opportunity employer, and we encourage members of diverse groups to apply. Minimum Education Required-Associates degree and two years of experience in the human service field.-Bacheloru2019s degree or a combination of four years of education and experience preferred. Minimum Experience Required-Fluent in English, verbal and written.-Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite. ShiftFirst (Day) Number of Openings1 Compensation$20.00 - $21.50 / Hourly Postal Code55416 Place of WorkHybrid Requisition ID7938 Job TypeFull Time Job BenefitsWhat we offer employees:Lifeworks offers a comprehensive benefits package which includes:18 days of PTO accrued in the first year of employment11 paid holidays (New Yearu2019s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Day after Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and a Personal Holiday)Medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D insurance, short & long-term disability coverageHealth Savings Account (HSA), Flexible Savings Account (FSA), and prescription drug coverageUp to $3,000 annually in tuition reimbursement.403(b) retirement plan u2013 Lifeworks contributes 3% of your salary and matches up to 4% of employee contributionsEmployee Assistance Program (EAP) Application Link

Created: 2026-03-11