About this opportunity
New Jersey Association on Correction lists this Vocational Specialist opportunity in paterson, New Jersey. Review the employer’s description below for duties, qualifications and application requirements.
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
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.
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Worksite address
paterson, NJ, 07544, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.