Vocational Specialist

Job description

Vocational Specialist

Location: Millicent Fenwick House

Department: DOC Programs

Reports to: Director

Salary Range: $43,000 - $50,000

FLSA Status: Exempt

To apply: Email your application to Denise Jennings, HR Director, at (email protected)

About NJAC

Since 1961, NJAC has been dedicated to helping people with a past build a future. We promote social justice and human dignity through educational, legislative, and rehabilitative programs for offenders and victims of crime.

Position Summary

As a Vocational Specialist with case management responsibilities, you will empower adult residents-state inmates classified to work release, substance abuse, or special needs programs-to achieve their employment and educational goals. You will assess client abilities and interests, develop individualized employment plans, provide career counseling, facilitate job training and placement, and offer ongoing support. You will also collaborate with employers, community resources, and families to ensure holistic client success, while maintaining compliance with NJAC and NJ Department of Corrections protocols.

Key Responsibilities

Develop and coordinate vocational and employment opportunities for program participants

Serve as the primary liaison between employers and participants

Establish and maintain relationships with potential employers

Schedule and supervise community service events

Monitor and review client employment and community service logs

Maintain accurate client records, including assessments, treatment plans, and progress reports

Provide individual and group counseling, crisis intervention, and conflict resolution

Participate in multidisciplinary case conferences and treatment plan reviews

Develop aftercare plans and ensure all required documentation is completed

Advocate for clients seeking housing, legal advice, or other services, encouraging independent action

Ensure compliance with all safety, security, and accountability protocols, including facility searches and urine monitoring

Complete required annual training and participate in staff meetings and training sessions

Prepare reports for management and funders as required

Maintain client and staff confidentiality at all times

Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Social Work, or related field; or six years of relevant experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience

Experience supervising residential clients preferred

Must pass criminal, education, substance use, and driver background checks

Valid driver's license and access to an insured, registered vehicle

Knowledge of client groups and issues related to the program area

Familiarity with social learning theory, cognitive-behavioral interventions, and group facilitation

Proficiency in Microsoft Office, email, internet, and client tracking software

Personal Characteristics

Ethical, professional, and committed to NJAC's mission

Strong relationship-building and communication skills

Creative, innovative, and client-focused

Team-oriented with leadership abilities

Organized, decisive, and solution-oriented

Working Conditions

Office and residential program environment; occasional nonstandard workplaces

Standard work week with some evenings, weekends, and on-call rotation required

Ability to lift up to 25 lbs. and perform physical activities as needed

Equal Opportunity Statement

NJAC is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. We welcome all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation, disability, age, marital status, sexual orientation, prior involvement in the criminal justice system, or other protected status.

This revised posting is ready to use and highlights the essential functions, qualifications, and values of the Vocational Specialist/Case Manager role at NJAC.

Worksite address

paterson, NJ, 07544, US

Who can apply

Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.