Vets Employment Program Specialist

The YWCA Greater Harrisburg is seeking an innovative and energetic individual to fill our full-time VETS Employment Program Specialist role.  

This position provides outreach and employment services with supportive case management to homeless veterans living in shelters, in transitional housing, in supported housing, and in the community.  The position will be responsible for ensuring that clients receive job preparation, placement, and connection with veterans and social service benefits.  

Position Details:

• Hours 8am to 4pm, Monday - Friday
• Salary: $18.31/hr.

• Conduct outreach to local shelters, soup kitchens, medical outreach facilities, social service organizations, emergency shelters for individuals, emergency shelters for families, and any other locations where homeless veterans associate. Outreach involves relational and trust-building engagements at the location occupied by the homeless veteran.
• Develop individualized employment service strategies with clients.
• Schedule and conduct regular career counseling and educational sessions utilizing current job market information for clients.
• Utilize “Supported Employment” principles and concepts of employment related case management.
• Network with Veterans Employment and Training Services LVER and DVOP staff, Department of Veterans Affairs staff, County Veterans Service Representatives, Veterans Service organizations, Pennsylvania One-Stop, Career Link staff, as well as social services, mental health, drug and alcohol, and housing service providers.
• Attend area homeless Veterans “Stand Down” and other events as assigned that are targeted to meet the needs of homeless veterans.
• Assist clients with job readiness and job specific skills leading to permanent employment in the career of their choice.
• Assist clients in obtaining needed supportive services including: domestic violence intervention and support, childcare, housing, transportation, and access to health care services as needed.
• Collaborate and develop systems of care for homeless veterans with area service providers.
• Connect clients with educational opportunities, vocational education, and employers.
• Maintain client follow-up through ongoing communication with client and the client’s social service and employment network.
• Transport clients for employment readiness and service provisions in accordance with grant provisions.
• Assist clients in obtaining veteran and social service or entitlement benefits.

• Minimum 2 years proven experience in interviewing, assessing, and hiring individuals; experience with drug and alcohol or mental health services.
• Preferred degree in Human Services fields of study.
• Veteran preferred.
• Ability to network within the community and work with diverse populations.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Personal vehicle and proof of insurance (mileage reimbursed).
• FBI, Child Abuse, and State Police Clearances.

• Medical, Dental, & Vision Insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Pension Retirement plan
• 11 Paid Holidays