Employment Specialist

Housing Hope and HopeWorks agencies are leading non-profit organizations dedicated to developing affordable housing and providing essential human services in Snohomish County and Camano Island. With a mission to reduce homelessness and poverty, these agencies serve as vital resources for the community by offering a wide range of interventions. These interventions include social enterprises, children’s services, subsidized housing opportunities, employment, education, and training services. This extensive approach allows Housing Hope and HopeWorks to address the root causes of homelessness and poverty, fostering long-term stability and well-being for the residents they serve. Both agencies are committed to inclusivity and equity, embracing diversity across all dimensions including race, religion, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, and more, ensuring equitable access for all community members. This commitment enhances their effectiveness and community trust as they work to promote affordable housing and provide comprehensive support services in the region.

The role of Employment Specialist at Housing Hope and HopeWorks is a key position that directly supports community members who are actively seeking employment but may face considerable barriers such as little or interrupted work history, or housing instability including homelessness. The Employment Specialist works closely with individuals to provide tailored employment services aimed at improving employability and facilitating entry or re-entry into the workforce. This position requires assessing participants’ employment-related needs, conducting employability assessments, developing individualized employment plans, and collaborating with internal and external partners such as Family Support Coaches, DSHS, Service Alternatives, and WorkSource to deliver effective services.

In this role, the Employment Specialist conducts comprehensive assessments using tools like the Employment Readiness Scale and crafts individualized employment plans that include goals around employment, training, education, and wage progression. Communication and coordination with various stakeholders is integral, ensuring that service delivery is seamless and responsive to participants’ evolving needs. The position also involves providing employment counseling, training on resume writing and interview skills, job development, referral services, and data management. The specialist may teach employment workshops and facilitate orientations, as well as perform job matching and follow-ups, helping place participants into suitable employment or training programs.

Candidates should be prepared for a dynamic work environment that involves travel across Snohomish County to various agency sites and partner organizations, occasional evening work, and some remote work flexibility. The physical demands are moderate and include administrative tasks, some lifting, and the need to work outdoors in varying weather conditions. Housing Hope highly values attention to detail and adherence to complex policies and procedures critical to maintaining program integrity and delivering high-quality services.

This full-time position offers a meaningful opportunity for professionals passionate about social impact, housing stability, and workforce development to make a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable populations. The Employment Specialist role is ideal for individuals who bring empathy, resourcefulness, and a collaborative spirit to help break the cycle of homelessness and foster economic self-sufficiency in the community.