Supported Employment Specialist (Behavioral Health)
Location: Baker City, OR
Full-Time | Non-Exempt
New Directions is seeking a motivated and community-focused Supported Employment Specialist (SES) to help individuals with mental health and co-occurring substance use disorders achieve meaningful, competitive employment.
This role is ideal for someone who believes employment is a key part of recovery and enjoys working both one-on-one with clients and out in the community with local employers.
Why Join New Directions?
- Mission-driven behavioral health organization
- Opportunity to directly support recovery through employment
- Collaborative, team-based care model
- Ongoing training in the evidence-based IPS Supported Employment model
- Strong supervision and professional development support
About the Role
The Supported Employment Specialist provides individualized employment services following the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) model. You?ll help clients identify career goals, find jobs, and maintain employment while working closely with clinical teams and community partners.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide individualized job coaching, job development, and placement support
- Assist with resumes, applications, and interview preparation
- Support rapid job search consistent with IPS model (no pre-employment barriers)
- Build relationships with local employers and community partners
- Collaborate with clinical teams to integrate employment into treatment planning
- Support job retention, follow-up, and career advancement
- Maintain accurate and timely documentation (within 36 hours)
- Track employment outcomes and support program reporting requirements
Required Qualifications
- Meets OAR requirements for Supported Employment Specialist
- Bachelor?s degree in human services or related field preferred (or equivalent experience)
- 1+ year of experience in employment services, case management, or behavioral health
- MHACBO certification (QMHA, CADC, or equivalent) or ability to obtain within 6 months
- Valid Oregon driver?s license and ability to travel locally
- Ability to pass required background checks
Key Skills & Strengths
- Strong communication and relationship-building skills
- Ability to engage and motivate individuals toward employment goals
- Comfort working in both office and community settings
- Organized, self-directed, and able to manage a caseload
- Commitment to recovery-oriented, trauma-informed care
Work Environment
- Combination of office, community, and employer-based work
- Frequent local travel to support clients and build employer partnerships
- Active, community-facing role with flexible daily structure
Help people find purpose, independence, and stability through employment.
Apply today to join New Directions.
