Provide IPS-informed supported employment and education services to transition-age youth and adults to help them obtain competitive integrated employment. Responsibilities include conducting vocational assessments, building employer relationships, and providing ongoing job retention support.
Requirements summary
Requires an Associate's degree in social services, mental health, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Candidates must possess a valid CA Driver's License, auto insurance, and pass comprehensive background checks.
high schoolassociate degreeCase ManagementOutreachDocumentationJob DevelopmentTrauma-Informed CareMotivational InterviewingCrisis CommunicationPerson-Centered PlanningVocational AssessmentCollaborative Problem SolvingEmployer Relationship BuildingBenefits Counseling
Job description
Job DetailsJob Location
Lakeport,
CA 95453Position
Type:
Full
TimeEducation
Level:
High
School/GEDSalary
Range: $24.44 - $25.63
HourlyTravel
Percentage:
Personal
Vehicle
UseJob
Shift:
DayJob
Title:
Employment &
IPS
Specialist
Department:
The
Harbor on
Main
Youth
Resource
Center
Location:
Lakeport,
CA
Status:
Full-Time,
Non-Exempt
Hours: 40 hours per week
Salary: $24.44-$25.63 per hour (DOE) /
Additional
Differentials
Must
Qualify
Open
Date:
May 5, 2026
Close
Date: Open until filled Pay
Differentials
Offered (must qualify through testing or verification):
Language
Translation -
Bi-cultural
Spanish: $1.00 per hour
Bimodal
Bilingualism -
ASL
Sign
Language: $1.00 per hour
Bimodal
Multilingualism -
ASL
Sign
Language: $2.00 per hour
Overview: The Employment & IPS Specialist provides Individual Placement and Support (IPS)–informed supported employment and education services to transition-age youth and adults. Services are person-centered, strength-based, and integrated with behavioral health treatment, with the primary goal of helping individuals obtain and maintain competitive, integrated employment and/or mainstream education consistent with their preferences. This position follows IPS fidelity principles, including zero exclusion, rapid engagement and job search, competitive employment as the primary outcome, systematic job development, benefits counseling, and time-unlimited follow-along supports. Services are delivered primarily in community-based settings identified by the individual.
Benefits
Comprehensive benefits package
Key
Responsibilities: Engage transition-age youth and adults in employment and education services using a zero-exclusion, person-centered approach Conduct individualized vocational assessments and develop employment/education plans based on participant strengths, interests, and goals Support rapid job search and placement in competitive, integrated employment aligned with participant preferences Build and maintain relationships with local employers to create job opportunities and individualized matches Assist with job applications, interviews, onboarding, and provide ongoing support for job retention and advancement Support access to education and training programs, including enrollment, financial aid, and coordination with schools or vocational programs Provide guidance on benefits planning, including the impact of employment on SSI/SSDI and healthcare benefits Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including behavioral health providers and community partners, to support participant success Maintain accurate, timely documentation and track employment outcomes in compliance with program requirements Conduct outreach and re-engagement efforts for participants who disengage from services Facilitate workshops/groups and assist with program activities as needed Uphold ethical standards, including mandated reporting responsibilities QualificationsEducation and Experience Associate’s degree or higher in social services, mental health, education, business, or a related field; or Equivalent combination of education and relevant experience Experience providing employment or education supports to transition-age youth and/or adults preferred Familiarity with supported employment, IPS principles, or behavioral health systems preferred
Conditions of Employment
May work across all agency programs as needed. Occasional flexible work schedule required to meet individual client needs. Must possess a valid CA Driver’s License, current auto insurance, and a clean DMV printout (no more than 3 points). Must pass a clear background check with DOJ, CACI, FBI, CCL. CPR and First Aid Certified. TB Exam and Physical at the time of employment. Driving Requirement: Driving is a required function of this position. Employees must use a personal vehicle that meet all agency requirements, including maintaining liability insurance that meets or exceeds state requirements. Employees are responsible for ensuring the timely renewal of their vehicle insurance policies and providing updated documentation to the agency to remain in good standing and compliant with position requirements. Training Provided: Comprehensive onboarding including CPR/First Aid, Crisis Communication/Pro-ACT, Trauma-Informed Care, Motivational Interviewing, and Collaborative Problem Solving.
Benefits
Comprehensive benefits package available. To Apply: Please visit our website at Redwood Community Services to apply or learn more about our values and services. Redwood Community Services, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity at all levels of its workforce.
Market context
California IPS roles need field-ready candidates
In California, Employment & IPS Specialist roles are often tied to behavioral health, supported employment, and community-based services, so demand is strongest where agencies are expanding recovery-focused programs. These roles are competitive because employers look for candidates who can combine client support skills with documentation, driving, and compliance requirements. Review the AI-summarized job requirements and benefits here to save research time, and confirm your driver’s license, auto insurance, and background-check readiness before applying.
