Employment Specialist

Employment Specialist Position Summary

At Mental Health America of Northern Kentucky and Southwest Ohio (MHANKYSWOH), we believe employment can be a powerful part of recovery and wellness. We are seeking a dedicated, self-motivated Employment Specialist to help individuals with mental health and substance use challenges obtain and maintain meaningful competitive employment within their communities.

As a member of our Supported Employment team, you will work directly with participants to identify career goals, build job opportunities, connect with employers, and provide ongoing support that promotes long-term success. This is a highly engaging role for someone who enjoys building relationships, working independently, and making a direct impact on people's lives.

About Us

Mental Health America of Northern Kentucky and Southwest Ohio (MHANKYSWOH) is a nonprofit dedicated to promoting mental wellness and reducing the impact of mental health and substance use challenges across our region. The organization provides essential safety net services for individuals and families who may otherwise lack access to care. We do this through peer support and recovery programs, community education and training, workforce development, advocacy, and connections to local resources. Our goal is to meet people where they are and support individuals, families, and professionals in building healthier communities.

What you'll do

• Partner with participants to identify vocational goals and develop individualized employment plans.
• Conduct job development activities and connect participants with employment opportunities that align with their interests, strengths, and aspirations.
• Build and maintain relationships with local employers and community partners.
• Collaborate with the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation and other service providers to coordinate supports and resources.
• Provide individualized job coaching and ongoing support to help participants succeed and retain employment.
• Assist participants in understanding how employment may affect benefits such as SSI, SSDI, and Medicaid, and connect them with benefits counseling resources when appropriate.
• Assess participant strengths, work experiences, and vocational interests on an ongoing basis.
• Support individuals interested in educational opportunities that align with their employment goals.
• Work collaboratively with treatment teams, family members (when authorized), and community stakeholders to support successful employment outcomes.
• Spend 65% of work time providing services in community settings.

What you'll need

• A high school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience working in a mental health field, employment services and/or substance use treatment
• A valid driver's license, maintain current automobile insurance, and be able to travel as required.
• Ability to be self-motivated, accountable, and able to manage schedule and work responsibilities independently.
• Completion of Kentucky SE CORE Training Series required at time of hire or within 3-6 months of hire

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a Human Services or Business field is preferred
• Knowledge of supported employment principles and recovery-oriented services.

Reasons why MHANKYSWOH is a great place to work

• 2026 Recipient of the Platinum Bell Seal For Workplace Mental Health
• We advocate for wellness for everyone
• We appreciate diversity and encourage people of all experiences, backgrounds, and cultures to share their talents
• Company sponsored health, dental, and vision insurance
• Additional voluntary benefit options
• Vacation time
• Personal time
• Sick time
• Mileage Reimbursement

Physical Requirements

This position requires a combination of office-based and community-based work. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Mental Health America of Northern Kentucky and Southwest Ohio is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace and encourage applications from qualified individuals of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.