Employment Support Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s competitive job market, the role of an Employment Support Specialist has taken center stage.

As the economy evolves, the demand for skilled professionals who can guide, advise, and bolster individuals’ employment journeys grows stronger.

But let’s delve deeper: What does an Employment Support Specialist really do?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker seeking to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager defining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the realm of employment support,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Employment Support Specialist job description template, designed for seamless integration into job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive straight into it.

Employment Support Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

Employment Support Specialists are responsible for assisting individuals with job search and career development.

They work closely with job seekers to identify their skills and interests, match them with suitable employment opportunities, and provide them with the necessary training and support.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Assess and evaluate the skills, abilities, and employment goals of the individuals
• Assist individuals in creating professional resumes and cover letters
• Provide job searching techniques and strategies
• Identify suitable employment opportunities matching the individual’s skills and interests
• Provide support and assistance during the job application process
• Arrange and provide job readiness and skills training
• Coach individuals on interview techniques and strategies
• Help individuals adapt to their new job and provide ongoing support
• Collaborate with employers to create job opportunities
• Monitor and document the progress of the individuals
• Provide information about additional resources such as financial assistance, vocational training, or mental health services
• Maintain confidentiality of personal information

 

Employment Support Specialist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are in search of a dedicated Employment Support Specialist to assist individuals in finding and maintaining employment.

The responsibilities of the Employment Support Specialist include assessing client needs, developing individual employment plans, providing ongoing support, and coordinating with community resources.

The ideal candidate should have excellent communication skills, be empathetic, and have a genuine interest in helping individuals improve their lives.

Ultimately, the role of the Employment Support Specialist is to guide, support and empower individuals to achieve their employment goals.

 

Responsibilities

• Assessing the needs and employment goals of clients
• Developing individual employment plans
• Providing ongoing support and guidance to clients
• Coordinating with local resources, employers and community organizations
• Providing job readiness training and workshops
• Helping clients prepare resumes and job applications
• Assisting clients in preparing for job interviews
• Maintaining case files and documentation
• Evaluating the effectiveness of employment strategies and making necessary adjustments

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as an Employment Support Specialist or similar role
• Knowledge of job market trends and employment resources
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work with diverse populations
• Strong problem-solving and organizational skills
• Proficiency in MS Office
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information
• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Psychology, or related field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Employment Support Specialist
• Work Environment: Office setting with occasional travel for client meetings and community outreach.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Employment Support Manager or Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $41,500 minimum to $58,800 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Employment Support Specialist Do?

An Employment Support Specialist primarily works within human resources departments or employment agencies, providing guidance and assistance to individuals seeking employment.

They work closely with job seekers, helping them improve their job search strategies, interviewing skills, and resume quality.

This may include offering training workshops, one-on-one coaching sessions or online resources.

In addition, Employment Support Specialists build relationships with employers to understand their hiring needs and match them with suitable candidates.

They may also help employers develop job descriptions, post job openings, and coordinate job fairs.

Moreover, they often act as mediators between employers and potential employees, helping to clarify job expectations and responsibilities.

For individuals with special needs or facing employment barriers, an Employment Support Specialist can provide additional resources and tools to support their job search.

 

Employment Support Specialist Qualifications and Skills

An Employment Support Specialist must possess a diverse range of qualifications and skills to successfully assist job seekers and employers, including:

• Expert knowledge of labor market trends and ability to analyze job requirements to match with the skills of job seekers
• Excellent communication skills to facilitate and mediate between employers and potential employees
• Strong interpersonal skills to build and maintain relationships with various stakeholders including job seekers, employers, and community service organizations
• Ability to develop and implement employment plans that cater to the specific needs and interests of job seekers
• Comfortable using technology and various software applications to maintain records, generate reports, and support job search activities
• Skills in problem solving and conflict resolution to address any barriers to employment and resolve any issues that arise during the employment process
• Ability to provide appropriate job coaching, guidance, and support to job seekers
• Understanding of equal employment opportunity (EEO) laws and regulations

 

Employment Support Specialist Experience Requirements

Employment Support Specialists typically need a bachelor’s degree in fields such as social work, psychology, or human resources, along with a significant amount of practical experience.

Entry-level roles may require 1 to 2 years of experience which can be acquired through internships or part-time roles in community agencies, vocational rehabilitation centers, or human resources departments.

These professionals may also gain valuable skills from roles such as a Case Manager, Rehabilitation Assistant, or Career Counsellor.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience usually have developed their skills in areas such as resume building, interview coaching, job placement, and ongoing job support.

They may have worked in roles that involve direct client interactions, counseling, and coordinating with employers.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have honed their skills in managing complex cases, program development, and community outreach.

They likely have some leadership experience in their background, making them suitable for roles like Team Leader or Program Manager within employment support services.

 

Employment Support Specialist Education and Training Requirements

Employment Support Specialists typically have a bachelor’s degree in human resources, psychology, social work, or a related field.

They need to have an understanding of the labor market, career development theories, and workforce solutions.

Many positions require them to have counseling or case management experience, which can be acquired through internships or work-study programs.

In addition to their degree, some employers prefer candidates who have certification from recognized bodies such as the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals or Certified Employment Support Professional (CESP) certification.

Master’s degree in Counseling or related field can further enhance their skills and knowledge, and provide them with deeper insight into the barriers to employment that many individuals face.

Continued education and training in areas such as career counseling, diversity and inclusion, and labor laws may be required or beneficial in this role.

Demonstrating dedication to ongoing learning and understanding of current job market trends can be a significant asset for an Employment Support Specialist.

 

Employment Support Specialist Salary Expectations

An Employment Support Specialist earns an average salary of $40,850 (USD) per year.

However, this amount can vary depending on factors like work experience, educational qualifications, the location of the job, and the specifics of the employing organization.

 

Employment Support Specialist Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Employment Support Specialist need?

An Employment Support Specialist should have strong communication skills, both oral and written, to interact effectively with clients, employers, and other professionals.

They must possess good problem-solving and negotiation skills, as they often mediate between employers and job seekers.

Organization skills are also important as they manage multiple clients and job orders simultaneously.

A deep understanding of labor market trends and employment practices is also crucial.

 

Do Employment Support Specialists need a degree?

While not always necessary, many employers prefer Employment Support Specialists to have a bachelor’s degree in fields like psychology, social work, or human resources.

However, relevant work experience in areas such as career counseling, job placement, or vocational rehabilitation can also be considered.

In some cases, a professional certification in career counseling or job placement may also be required.

 

What should you look for in an Employment Support Specialist resume?

An Employment Support Specialist resume should highlight experience in job placement, career counseling, or employment support.

They should have knowledge of the local labor market and employment laws.

The resume should also demonstrate strong interpersonal, problem-solving, and negotiation skills.

If they have a degree or certification in a relevant field, it should be clearly mentioned.

 

What qualities make a good Employment Support Specialist?

A good Employment Support Specialist is empathetic and patient, as they often work with individuals who may be struggling with job searches or career transitions.

They should be diligent and persistent in finding suitable employment opportunities for their clients.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are crucial as they need to build relationships with both job seekers and employers.

They should also be adaptable, being able to adjust their approach based on each individual’s needs and circumstances.

 

What are the daily duties of an Employment Support Specialist?

On a typical day, an Employment Support Specialist may meet with clients to assess their career goals, skills, and job readiness.

They may also spend time researching job opportunities, contacting potential employers, and arranging job interviews.

They also provide ongoing support to clients who are newly employed, helping them overcome any challenges they might face in their new job.

Part of their day might also be spent on administrative tasks such as maintaining client records and preparing reports.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve shed light on the pivotal role of an Employment Support Specialist.

Intriguing, isn’t it?

It’s not just about recruitment and job placement.

It’s about shaping career paths, one job seeker at a time.

Armed with our essential Employment Support Specialist job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to take the plunge.

But why limit yourself?

Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your gateway to creating razor-sharp job listings or finessing your resume to absolute excellence.

Remember:

Each job placement contributes to the larger employment landscape.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

How to Become an Employment Support Specialist (Complete Guide)

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