Supported Employment Specialist

ABOUT NWRC

Northwest Regional Council (NWRC) is a multi-service agency that covers the Washington counties of Island, San Juan, Skagit and Whatcom, with offices in Bellingham and Mount Vernon, Washington.  NWRC’s slogan: “Human services with you at the center” encapsulates its focus on creating new solutions to navigate the challenges of aging and disability, proactive paths to behavioral health and recovery, and new partnerships between healthcare and social services. We are seeking applicants for a Supported Employment Specialist. 

JOIN US

NWRC’s values are centered on the concepts of respect, inclusiveness, and striving to foster a healthy work environment for all employees. With these values in mind, we will do our part to support and further diversity, equity, and inclusion not only in our workplace, but in our communities. Toward this goal, we invite candidates from diverse backgrounds and perspectives to apply and help shape the future of NWRC.

SUPPORTED EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM

This program assists in providing community-based support to individuals with disabilities and behavioral health conditions to support them in obtaining and maintaining competitive, integrated employment.

A DAY IN THE LIFE 

Supported Employment Specialists provide support by meeting with participants in the community and at worksites, assisting with job development and applications, coordinating with employers and treatment teams, and providing on-the-job support. They also complete required documentation, track outcomes, and ensure services are delivered in accordance with program and funding requirements.  

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

10-Step pay range: $31.06 - $40.53 Hourly

NWRC salary ranges are comprised of a 10-Step scale. On their employment anniversary, employees are eligible for an annual pay increase to the next step in the associated salary range, subject to satisfactory performance. In addition to the annual pay increases, NWRC assesses cost of living adjustments (COLA) on an annual basis, subject to Governing Board approval. New employees at NWRC usually start at the first step in the position’s assigned salary range. NWRC may consider a higher step when evaluating the candidate’s experience, training, or proven capability. Internal equity will be reviewed and prioritized when determining a starting pay rate.

As a full-time, permanent, non-exempt role, this position is eligible for the following benefits: 

• 100% Employer paid medical for individual employee plans and up to 95% paid medical for dependent coverage plans, with multiple plan options


• 100% Employer paid Dental and Vision for the employee and eligible dependents with multiple plan options
  


• Washington State Public Employees Retirement System (PERS 2 or PERS 3)


• 100% Employer paid Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for employee & dependents


• Life and Long-term Disability insurance, including voluntary buy-up options


• Vacation Leave, accrued at 8hrs/month & increasing with longevity


• Sick Leave, accrued at 8hrs/month


• 13 Paid Holidays Annually


• 3 Paid Wellness Days Annually


• Voluntary Flex Spending Plans for health and/or child/elder care


• Voluntary Deferred Compensation Program


• Alternative Work Schedules


• Hybrid Work Environment

Note:  NWRC meets the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) definition of a public service organization.

SCHEDULE & LOCATION
NWRC strives to offer employees schedule flexibility while balancing the needs of their role within the agency with their personal lives. The Supported Employment Specialist will work with the Care Management Program Supervisor to develop a schedule that includes regular, in person time in the Skagit office as well as optional remote days.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education/Experience: 

• Master's Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling or related field and 1 year of experience providing direct human services to clients, preferably in a supported employment or community setting OR


• Bachelor's Degree in an equivalent field and at least 2 years of experience providing direct human services to clients, preferably in a supported employment or community setting OR


• An equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the skills, knowledge and ability to perform the work.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Demonstrated ability to assess client health and functional status, understand and develop appropriate plans and make clear and concise recommendations.


• Demonstrates an ability to engage with communities of color, people with disabilities, LGBTQIA+, and other marginalized communities.


• Demonstrates an understanding of institutional barriers to services.


• Demonstrated ability, willingness and commitment to support an environment that advocates and creates a sense of belonging for individuals of all ethnicities, genders, ages, and backgrounds.


• Knowledge of the local providers, services and resources, as well as the formal and informal support networks available in the service area.


• Ability to communicate effectively in both oral and written format.


• Ability to work independently, with good judgment and a minimum of supervision.


• Ability to plan, prioritize and coordinate work assignments and/or projects.


• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, community agencies, employers, and the general public using courtesy, tact, and good judgment.


• Ability to defuse difficult situations recognizing the need for sensitivity as well as assertiveness.


• Demonstrated ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality

 Licenses/Certificates/Special Requirements:

• Must have a valid driver's license, a vehicle available for work-related travel, and appropriate liability insurance.


• Certified Rehabilitation Counselor or Certified Employment Support Professional credentialing preferred.
  

RECRUITMENT & SELECTION PROCESS

NWRC is committed to continuous improvement in our recruitment and selection practices. We strive to provide a respectful, inclusive and transparent candidate experience, while reducing barriers and supporting equitable access to employment opportunities. We prioritize timely, clear communication with candidates to reduce uncertainty and our selection process is comprised of job-related evaluation methods that are reviewed by multiple hiring team members. Applicants may request reasonable accommodation at any stage of the hiring process.