Jobs at Chapel Haven Schleifer Center (Now Hiring) — 6 open

Employment Specialist

Full Time | New Haven, CT
Requisition ID: 1780

Pay: $23.15 per hour
Schedule: Monday–Friday, 6:30 AM – 2:30 PM (40 hours/week)

About Chapel Haven Schleifer Center

Chapel Haven Schleifer Center is an award-winning nonprofit dedicated to empowering adults with disabilities to live independent, self-determined lives. We partner with individuals to build skills, confidence, and independence through person-centered support.

With over 50 years of service, we remain committed to a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace guided by:
Dynamic Diversity • Caring Collaboration • Individual Integrity • Community Connection

Why Join CHSC?

• Competitive pay at $23.15/hour
• Full benefits for eligible employees
• Tuition reimbursement opportunities
• Strong internal career growth pathways
• Mission-driven, supportive team culture
• Over 50% of staff with 5+ years of tenure

About CareerAbility

CareerAbility supports individuals with disabilities in achieving meaningful employment. We believe work should be based on individual choice, improve quality of life, and provide competitive wages.

We help individuals find and keep jobs that match their strengths, interests, and goals, while providing the supports needed for long-term success.

Position Summary

The Employment Specialist is a lead job coach within CareerAbility responsible for supporting individuals with disabilities in obtaining, maintaining, and succeeding in community-based employment.

This role focuses on job coaching, job development, retention support, vocational discovery, and employer engagement. Employment Specialists primarily support individuals in customized employment settings but may also support pre-vocational or group employment services.

A key part of this role is building strong relationships with both employers and individuals served to support successful, long-term job outcomes.

What You’ll Do

• Provide hands-on job coaching at community job sites
• Support individuals one-on-one and in small groups
• Teach and model job tasks and workplace expectations
• Support job development, retention, and workplace success
• Build and maintain positive employer relationships
• Provide travel training and transportation support as needed
• Advocate for workplace accommodations and individual strengths
• Complete documentation (progress notes, Setworks, reports, billing)
• Collaborate with internal Career Transition Specialists and team members

What We’re Looking For

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Education, Vocational Rehab, ABA, or related field or 2+ years of job coaching experience
• ACRE Customized Employment certification preferred
• Knowledge of Employment First principles preferred
• Experience supporting adults with developmental disabilities and/or autism preferred
• Strong communication, teaching, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to manage relationships with employers and individuals served
• Strong organization and problem-solving skills
• Computer proficiency (Word, Excel, web-based systems)
• Valid driver’s license, reliable vehicle, and acceptable driving record required
• PSL preferred or eligible to obtain

Equal Opportunity Employer

We encourage all qualified individuals to apply. Candidates who may not meet every qualification are still encouraged to apply and will be considered for this and other opportunities at Chapel Haven.