Lead Employment Specialist

About VRSI: Vocational Rehabilitation Specialists, Inc. (VRSI) is committed to supporting military veterans through the Department of Labor's Homeless Veteran Reintegration Program (HVRP). With operations across multiple states, VRSI is dedicated to delivering courteous, quality, and professional services that empower veterans to achieve vocational success through individualized case management, employment readiness, and job placement support.

Position Overview: The Lead Employment Specialist (LES) is the central figure responsible for office operations, veteran program performance, and overall compliance with Department of Labor and company policy. Leads are accountable for supervising staff, supporting outreach, managing office systems, ensuring adherence to performance benchmarks, and overseeing all grant-required deliverables. This position requires leadership, proactive oversight, and consistent communication with Regional Leads and other secondary support staff.

Key Responsibilities:

Client Assessment and Case Management:

• Ensure Employment Specialists (ES) conduct thorough assessments of veterans' barriers, skills, and readiness for employment.
• Oversee the development and monitoring of individualized employment plans and case progress.
• Monitor office-level performance related to enrollments, qualifications, placements, and retentions.

Job Readiness Training:

• Ensure job readiness training is delivered effectively and consistently, including resume writing, interviewing, and job search skills.
• Oversee and support the facilitation of workshops and ensure training goals are met.

Career Counseling and Support:

• Provide support and guidance to ES in delivering one-on-one vocational counseling to help veterans identify employment pathways.
• Monitor case notes and veteran progress toward employment goals, ensuring quality and accuracy.

Job Placement Assistance:

• Direct ES efforts to build employer partnerships and develop job opportunities aligned with veteran skills and goals.
• Ensure veterans receive appropriate coaching and follow-up support through the hiring process.

Office Management:

• Supervise all assigned ES, manage schedules, approve time off, and ensure compliance with company and DOL policies to ensure that all grant requirements such as eligibility, placements, training, and financial expenditures are met.
• Maintain accountability for all grant performance measures and reporting requirements.
• Coordinate with Regional Leads regarding corrective action if office metrics fall below threshold benchmarks.

Employer Engagement:

• Guide ES in employer outreach and job development strategies to ensure employer needs are met while promoting veteran hiring.
• Facilitate coordination with employers across sectors aligned with regional labor market trends.

Program Coordination and Reporting:

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date client records, case notes, and employment outcomes.
• Prepare and submit regular reports on program activities, outcomes, and grant compliance.
• Complete and submit quarterly reporting.
• Ensure all documentation meets internal and external audit standards.

Community Collaboration:

• Coordinate with community partners, CoCs, veteran service providers, and other stakeholders to strengthen resource networks.
• Attend and represent the organization at mandatory outreach meetings and regional service provider coalitions.
• Maintain and review the office outreach plan, ensuring AARs and event tracking are completed and stored.

Qualifications:

Education: Bachelor's degree in social work, human services, counseling, or a related field preferred.

Experience: Minimum of 1 year in a leadership role and at least 2 years of experience in workforce development, human services, or veteran services. Experience working with veterans or homeless populations is highly preferred.

Skills & Abilities:

• Strong leadership and problem-solving skills
• Ability to evaluate and monitor performance data
• Effective written and verbal communication
• Knowledge of employment barriers facing veterans
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and data entry systems
• Ability to manage competing priorities and team workflow

Compensation and Benefits:

• Hourly Rate: $25-$28 based on experience
• Paid Company Holidays
• Sick Time and Paid Time Off after 90 days of employment
• Healthcare, eligible after 90 days of employment
• Simple IRA Plan after 1 year of employment