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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Vocational Support Assistant

💰 $38,000 - $55,000

Social ServicesNon-ProfitHuman ServicesEducationHealthcare

🎯 Role Definition

As a Vocational Support Assistant, you are the crucial link between an individual's potential and their professional success. You will work directly with a diverse client base, including individuals with disabilities, those re-entering the workforce, or others facing barriers to employment. Your mission is to provide the foundational support, coaching, and resources necessary to help clients identify their strengths, develop job readiness skills, secure meaningful employment, and maintain it long-term. This role requires empathy, organization, and a genuine desire to champion the career aspirations of others.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Direct Support Professional
  • Case Manager Aide
  • Administrative Assistant (in a social services or non-profit setting)
  • Paraprofessional / Teacher's Aide

Advancement To:

  • Vocational Specialist / Job Coach
  • Employment Counselor
  • Case Manager
  • Program Coordinator

Lateral Moves:

  • Life Skills Coach
  • Community Support Worker
  • Residential Advisor
  • Benefits Counselor

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Assist clients in developing comprehensive and individualized employment plans by conducting initial assessments to identify their skills, interests, barriers, and long-term career goals.
  • Provide one-on-one coaching and guidance on all aspects of the job search process, including creating effective resumes, writing compelling cover letters, and completing online or paper applications.
  • Conduct mock interviews with clients to build their confidence, refine their communication skills, and prepare them for common and challenging interview questions.
  • Research and identify suitable job openings that align with client skills and employment plans, utilizing online job boards, community contacts, and employer networks.
  • Facilitate and co-facilitate workshops and small group sessions on critical job readiness topics such as workplace professionalism, communication, conflict resolution, and financial literacy.
  • Provide on-site job coaching and support to newly employed clients, assisting them with initial training, understanding job duties, and integrating into the workplace culture.
  • Transport clients to job interviews, career fairs, networking events, and new job sites, ensuring they arrive safely and punctually.
  • Act as a liaison and advocate between clients and potential or current employers to address concerns, request reasonable accommodations, and foster positive working relationships.
  • Monitor and document client progress towards achieving vocational goals, providing continuous encouragement and adjusting support strategies as needed.
  • Connect clients with essential wrap-around services and community resources, such as transportation assistance, professional clothing closets, childcare services, and mental health support.
  • Educate clients on workplace rights and responsibilities, including understanding pay stubs, benefits packages, and policies related to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
  • Assist in vocational evaluations and situational assessments in community-based work environments to accurately gauge a client's work skills and support needs.
  • Develop and maintain a portfolio of client success stories, testimonials, and employment data to support program reporting and outreach efforts.

Secondary Functions

  • Meticulously maintain accurate, confidential, and up-to-date case files and documentation for each client in accordance with organizational policies and funding source requirements.
  • Compile and submit timely weekly, monthly, and quarterly progress reports to the Program Manager, detailing client activities, placements, and outcomes.
  • Proactively develop and cultivate a network of local employers and business partners to create a pipeline of employment opportunities for program participants.
  • Assist senior staff in the development, review, and updating of curriculum and materials for job readiness workshops and training modules.
  • Manage the scheduling of client appointments, employer meetings, and follow-up communications to ensure a smooth and organized service delivery process.
  • Support the organization's data strategy by accurately entering all client, employer, and service data into the designated case management or CRM system.
  • Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including case managers, therapists, and social workers, to ensure a holistic and coordinated approach to client support.
  • Participate actively in team meetings, sprint planning, and staff training sessions to contribute to program improvement and professional development.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Resume/Cover Letter Development: Proven ability to craft and critique professional application materials that highlight client strengths.
  • Case Management Software: Proficiency in using client data management systems (e.g., ETO, Salesforce for Nonprofits) for documentation and reporting.
  • Microsoft Office Suite: Competency in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook for creating documents, tracking data, and communicating with stakeholders.
  • Job Search Platforms: Expertise in navigating online job boards like Indeed, LinkedIn, and government job portals.
  • Client Assessment: Knowledge of formal and informal vocational assessment tools and techniques.
  • Record Keeping & Documentation: Strong ability to maintain precise, confidential, and compliant client records.

Soft Skills

  • Empathy & Compassion: A genuine ability to connect with and understand the challenges and aspirations of a diverse client population.
  • Patience & Resilience: The capacity to remain calm, supportive, and persistent when faced with client setbacks or slow progress.
  • Interpersonal Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for effectively interacting with clients, employers, and colleagues.
  • Problem-Solving: Proactive in identifying challenges and creative in finding effective solutions to help clients overcome barriers.
  • Advocacy & Persuasion: Confidence in championing clients' abilities to employers and negotiating supportive work environments.
  • Time Management & Organization: Exceptional ability to manage a diverse caseload, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
  • Cultural Competency: A strong awareness of and respect for diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High School Diploma or GED equivalency.

Preferred Education:

  • Associate's or Bachelor's Degree.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Social Work
  • Psychology
  • Human Services
  • Sociology
  • Counseling
  • Education

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 1-3 years of relevant experience.

Preferred: Direct experience working with individuals with disabilities, at-risk populations, or those with significant barriers to employment in a coaching, teaching, or support capacity. A valid driver's license and a clean driving record are often required.

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