The Vocational Program at Aurora Mental Health & Recovery (AMHR) offers supported employment services for individuals facing mental health and substance use challenges, starting at age 15. We are seeking an Employment Specialist to assist job seekers in identifying and achieving their employment goals. As part of a multidisciplinary team of employment specialists, peer specialists, therapists, and case managers, you will support clients in reaching their vocational aspirations. The ideal candidate is a self-starter with strong problem-solving skills, effective communication, and the ability to build and maintain community partnerships. This role focuses on helping clients secure and sustain competitive employment while working collaboratively with community partners. The position is primarily community-based, with 65% of the time spent meeting clients and developing employer relationships.
Schedule. This position is fully Onsite/In-person. The schedule is Monday - Friday, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm.
Bilingual Language Differential Pay. Employees who successfully pass a language assessment are eligible to receive bilingual differential pay. This differential is provided as a fixed amount of $3,000 per calendar year, paid on a bi‑weekly basis across 26 pay periods, and prorated based on hire date and full‑time equivalency (FTE). Eligibility and payment are subject to the language requirements of the position and the employee’s demonstrated proficiency in the language.
Salary for this role. The starting wage is based on experience and company equity. Paid bi-weekly.
Essential Functions:
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Engage clients by establishing collaborative relationships, and assist clients in obtaining and maintaining competitive, community-based employment.
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Assess long-/short-term employment goals, and evaluate work, educational, criminal and developmental history as well as financial responsibilities.
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With client consent, provide education and support to family, friends, and potential employers regarding clients' needs and abilities when/if applicable.
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Develop an individual employment plan (IEP) with client input, behavioral health treatment team, DVR counselor when appropriate, family members, and friends.
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Conduct individualized job development and job search activities.
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Within 30 days of program intake, support clients in making employer contacts by applying for jobs, or learning more about jobs available in the community.
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Provide individualized follow-along aides to assist clients in maintaining employment.
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Negotiate workplace accommodations when necessary.
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Participate in assigned meetings for continuity of care and to increase employment sustainability.
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Attend community meetings with clients, including job coaching or job skill development.
Requirements:
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Bachelor's degree in Psychology, Social Work, Counseling, Vocational Rehabilitation, or a related field.
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Six months to one year of experience with job development and/or vocational rehabilitation working with a similar population.
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Six months' experience in social work, human service, or mental health.
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Preferred: Two years of experience with job development and/or vocational rehabilitation with a similar population.**
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Valid Colorado Driver's License with a driving record that meets organization's requirements.
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Ability to work with community partners and navigate relationships.
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Ability to work independently and creatively.
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Ability to problem solve and demonstrate flexibility.
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Excellent communication skills with a comprehension of intercultural communications.
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Proficiency using Microsoft Office Suite and Internet-based computer programs.
Required Vaccination and TB Test.
At AMHR the health and safety of our clients and staff are our top priorities. As part of this commitment, all employees are required to receive an annual influenza (flu) shot and present a negative TB test result before their first day of work. Proof of both the flu shot and negative TB test must be provided on your first day of employment. Medical and religious exemptions can be requested if necessary.
Benefits:
- Health insurance: Kaiser
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Dental, vision, and flexible spending accounts (dependent care & health care)
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Company paid basic life and AD&D insurance
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Long-term disability coverage*
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403(b) retirement plan which provides 100% vesting immediately, and matching contributions up to 4% after one year of employment
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Accrued Vacation pay up to 12 days and accrued Sick Pay up to 12 days per year, and 2 floating holidays (hours calculated on a pro-rata basis based on full-time equivalency)
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Holidays: The company observes 11 designated holidays each year. Exception: Employees working in 24/7 programs or facilities are scheduled to work their regular shifts if the holiday falls on their scheduled workday. In these cases, employees will receive their regular pay for hours worked plus holiday pay.
- Employee Assistance Program
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Voluntary term life insurance
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Short term disability*
- Eligible for benefit if working 30 hours per week or more
Our Mission, Vision and Core Values.
Mission: Deeply rooted in our diverse community, we deliver state-of-the-art care and meaningful outcomes that impact emotional well-being and addiction recovery.
Vision: To foster hope and healing through compassionate, quality care.
Core Values: Passionate caring; Rising to the challenge; Honoring and respecting all persons; Believing in resilience; Putting clients and community first; Commitment to teamwork
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Aurora Mental Health & Recovery and subsidiaries (AMHR) are dedicated to the principles of equal employment opportunity. We prohibit unlawful discrimination against applicants or employees on the basis of age 40 and over, race (including traits historically associated with race, such as hair texture and length, protective hairstyles), sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, color, religion, national origin, disability, military status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable state or local law. We do not tolerate discrimination in any form or context, including harassment or exclusion.
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