Are you passionate about lowering barriers to education and employment? As an Employment & Education Specialist, you will help young people make progress toward goals that align with their interests, whether that is preparing to join the workforce or pursuing education.

You will remove barriers to employment by working with the member to develop their own preferences around employment and education and assisting the young person with creating a plan to achieve that goal. You will help them strengthen employment skills such as preparing for an interview, creating a resume/cover letter, effectively communicating with employers, navigating transportation barriers and other tasks related to obtaining and maintaining employment. You will also support youth in their educational pursuits towards high school diploma, GED, college, or trade programming.

In addition to mentoring youth directly, you will network with employers and schools in the area to increase employment and education opportunities for Thresholds members, both before and after a young person is hired or enrolled. This can look like building relationships with hiring managers, advocacy, negotiating accommodations on behalf of members, and doing follow-along contact to help a young person maintain their employment and/or succeed in their schooling.

Our culture is supportive, and you will collaborate with both your team and clinical teams within Youth and Young Adult Services to coordinate client care and talk through challenges. Deepen your knowledge of IPS principles, harm reduction, trauma-informed care, and other clinical best practices through ongoing opportunities for training and professional development, including clinical supervision. This is an invaluable experience to launch a variety of career paths and growth opportunities available within Thresholds.

To succeed in this role, you need:

Passion for mental health advocacy with the youth and young adult population Patience and willingness to meet youth where they’re at Strong communication, time management, and organizational skills A valid driver’s license, current car insurance, and a car for daily use Willingness to provide transportation to clients To be able to perform Therapeutic Crisis Intervention therapeutic restraint techniques, which require moderate exertion, being able to lift 40 pounds, and the mobility to lower self to a kneeling position on the floor. This training is provided and required by Thresholds.

Many education and experience paths are eligible for this role:

High school diploma or GED certificate and several years of experience in the workforce Bachelor’s degree Master’s degree

What sets Thresholds apart: 

Competitive pay - Base Rate: $22.00 - 24.62 per hour / $45,760 - $51,200 annually Subject to increase based on education and experience Generous PTO (9 federal holidays, 8 days of sick leave, 15-22 days personal and vacation) Dental insurance, vision insurance, 4 medical insurance plans 403(b) retirement plan with 3% employer match  Robust employee assistance program (EAP) Mileage reimbursement  Public service loan forgiveness  Cell phone reimbursement (up to $50/month) Supervision for clinical licensure at no cost (LSW, LCSW, LPC, LCPC) Reimbursement for professional licensure and license renewal

Thresholds is a mission-driven agency with a deep commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We foster an environment where all feel valued and respected, a place where every employee can be themselves, thrive, and support the agency’s mission. Click here to learn more.

One of the oldest and largest community mental health organizations in Illinois, we pride ourselves in being a Chicago Tribune Top Workplace and one of Chicago’s 101 Best & Brightest Companies to Work For, several years in a row.

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