Employment Specialist I (Windward)

Lanakila Pacific provides programs and services that help individuals with cognitive, physical, social, or age-related challenges build independence and improve quality of life. Disability Services collaborates with state agencies, private funders, and internal programs to provide employment-focused services, including training and community-based placements.

Position Overview:

The Employment Specialist I delivers career planning, job readiness training, assessments, service coordination, and employment development for individuals with disabilities seeking community-based employment. This role empowers participants by developing technical and soft skills, connecting them with community resources, and supporting their employment goals. The position upholds organizational policies, values, and STAR service standards.

Benefits:

We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, wellbeing, and work-life balance, including:

• Health Insurance (medical, vision, and dental)
• Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI)
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Paid Vacation and Sick Leave
• 11 Paid Holidays
• Lifestyle Benefits (employee wellness and support programs)
• Additional organizational perks and employee support programs

Minimum Qualifications:

Required Education/Experience

• Bachelor's degree in education, social sciences, human services, or human resources and one (1) year of experience working with individuals with disabilities or barriers to employment; OR
• Bachelor's degree in another field and two (2) years of experience working with individuals with disabilities or barriers to employment; OR
• Associate's degree and three (3) years of progressively responsible experience working with individuals with disabilities or barriers to employment; OR
• High school diploma and four (4) years of progressively responsible experience working with individuals with disabilities or barriers to employment.

Required Clearances/Certifications

• TB clearance
• First Aid/CPR certification (may obtain on the job)
• Criminal background check
• Pre-employment drug test
• Child/Adult Protective Services checks
• Fieldprint fingerprinting
• LEIE check
• Valid driver's license, clean driving abstract, and access to an insured vehicle

Preferred Experience

• Supervisory or management experience
• Certification or training related to community rehabilitation, employment support professional services, or work incentives and benefits counseling

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

Position-Specific Duties

• Develop individualized employment plans based on a participant's abilities, education, interests, priorities, and career goals.
• Assist participants in obtaining and maintaining competitive community employment opportunities.
• Provide education and support related to community services, assistive technology, financial resources, health and wellness resources, academic opportunities, and other supports.
• Coordinate with community resources to support participant success and progression toward goals.
• Coach communication, interpersonal, mobility, vocational adjustment, and workplace readiness skills in individual and group settings.
• Lead group classes focused on career awareness, employability, and work readiness.
• Conduct telehealth classes using platforms such as Zoom, Google Meet, WebEx, and similar technologies.
• Provide ongoing support to participants and employers, identify barriers, and recommend solutions.
• Perform on-the-job coaching as needed.
• Communicate effectively with participants, support systems, referral sources, and internal departments.
• Prepare and maintain accurate records, case files, eligibility documentation, progress notes, and correspondence.
• Provide mentorship and support to job coaches as needed.

Other Duties

• Demonstrate cultural competency and effectively work with individuals from diverse backgrounds and abilities.
• Serve as a role model and contribute to a respectful, healthy, and inclusive work environment.
• Ensure adherence to all safety procedures and practices.
• Maintain confidentiality and comply with organizational policies and procedures.
• Develop a thorough knowledge of Lanakila Pacific programs and pursue ongoing professional development opportunities.
• Complete required organizational training.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Working Conditions / Hours:

• Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (shift may vary)
• May require work outside of normal business hours, including weekends and holidays, to meet operational and contract requirements
• Work is performed in office, community, and outdoor settings, including travel to various program and meeting sites

Equipment Use:

• Basic proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, database systems, or similar software
• Standard office equipment including computers, printers, copiers, scanners, and projectors
• Company vehicle

Mental Demands:

• Ability to plan, organize, and adapt to changing situations.
• Strong judgment, initiative, and ability to work under pressure and tight deadlines.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work with diverse groups.

Physical Demands:

• Frequent: Standing, walking, stooping/kneeling/crouching, handling/push/pull, feeling, seeing, color vision, hearing, travel
• Occasional: Climbing, balancing, lifting/carrying 26–50 lbs., talking
• Seldom: Sitting, lifting/carrying over 50 lbs.
• Rare: Night vision, tasting