Thresholds·Chicago, Illinois
Support individuals with severe mental illness in finding and maintaining employment using the IPS model. Responsibilities include developing employment plans, coaching clients on job-seeking skills, and networking with local employers to create opportunities.
Are you passionate about helping individuals find and sustain employment? As an Employment Support Specialist, you will help people experiencing mental illness make progress toward employment goals that align with their interests and strengths.
You will be trained in the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) model, an international evidence-based practice for those who have severe and persistent diagnosed mental illness which has been proven to increase the likelihood of employment compared to those without support.
You will remove barriers to employment by working with the client to develop their own preferences around employment and assist the client with creating a plan to achieve that goal. You will help them strengthen full-cycle employment skills such as preparing for an interview, creating a resume/cover letter, effectively communicating with employers, navigating transportation barriers and other tasks related to obtaining and maintaining employment. You will not only see their progress but will document their employment progress. No day is the same and you get to see the difference that you make every day.
In addition to direct mentorship, you will network with employers in the area to increase employment opportunities for Thresholds clients, both before and after the individual is hired. This can look like building relationships with hiring managers, advocacy, negotiating accommodations on behalf of clients, and doing follow-along contact to help a client maintain their employment.
Our culture is supportive, and you will collaborate with both your team and clinical teams to coordinate client care and talk through challenges. Deepen your knowledge of IPS principles, harm reduction, trauma-informed care, and other clinical best practices through ongoing opportunities for training and professional development, including clinical supervision. This is an invaluable experience to launch a variety of career paths and growth opportunities available within Thresholds.
Thresholds is a mission-driven agency with a deep commitment to fostering an environment where all feel valued and respected, a place where every employee can be themselves, thrive, and support the agency’s mission. Click here to learn more. [https://recruiting.ultipro.com/THR1001THRSH/thresholds.org/about]
One of the oldest and largest community mental health organizations in Illinois, we pride ourselves in being a Chicago Tribune Top Workplace and one of Chicago’s 101 Best & Brightest Companies to Work For, several years in a row.
Candidates must have a passion for mental health advocacy, strong organizational skills, and a valid driver's license with a car for client transport. Eligible education paths include a high school diploma with experience, a bachelor's degree, or a master's degree.
Market context
Behavioral health positions in Illinois often draw steady interest because employers look for licensed or graduate-prepared candidates who can work in clinical, community, or care-coordination settings. This role is competitive because the required background is specific—either a master’s degree in a human services field or an active Illinois RN license, with behavioral health experience preferred. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save research time, then confirm your licensure, degree, and setting experience before applying.
