Job Description

Are you passionate about helping young people with disabilities achieve their career goals and thrive in the workplace? Join our team as a Youth Employment Specialist and play a vital role in shaping brighter futures through personalized support, meaningful job experiences, and strong community partnerships.

About the Role:

As a Youth Employment Specialist, you will work one-on-one with youth with disabilities to support their journey into the workforce. This includes career counseling, skills training, work-based learning opportunities, and post-placement support. You’ll also collaborate with inclusive employers to create opportunities where these young people can shine.

This is an hourly position reporting to the KANSASWORKS Network for Employment and Career Transition for Youth (knectY) Supervisor.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Personalized Career Counseling

Conduct in-depth assessments to uncover strengths, interests, and employment goals. Develop tailored plans that put each youth on a path toward self-sufficiency.

• Job Readiness & Skill Building

Lead engaging workshops and one-on-one coaching on topics like resume writing, interview techniques, self-advocacy, and workplace professionalism.

• Real-World Experience

Connect youth with internships, apprenticeships, and job-shadowing opportunities that align with their interests and abilities.

• Employer Engagement & Job Development

Build relationships with businesses, nonprofits, and public agencies to identify inclusive job opportunities. Advocate for diversity and accessibility in hiring.

• Workplace Accessibility & Accommodations

Partner with employers to implement reasonable accommodations and support systems that help youth succeed on the job.

• Post-Placement Support

Provide ongoing mentorship and guidance to help youth navigate workplace challenges and continue progressing in their careers.

• Resource Coordination

Link youth and their families to vital community resources—like transportation, housing, or financialcounseling—to support holistic success.

• Tracking & Reporting

Keep accurate records of youth progress, employer relationships, and program outcomes. Contribute to performance tracking and continuous improvement efforts.

• Advocacy & Outreach

Promote disability inclusion and awareness through community engagement, partnership-building, and public education

Preferred Qualifications & Experience:

• Associate’s Degree preferred (or equivalent experience in vocational, educational, or disability services)
• Experience working with youth with disabilities in schools, job programs, or community settings
• Knowledge of disability rights, vocational rehabilitation, and inclusive employment practices
• Strong communication, coaching, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Teams); database experience preferred
• Project management, data tracking, and reporting skills
• Willingness to travel regularly (local/regional, limited overnight)
• A positive, flexible, and mission-driven attitude
• Certification in career development or vocational counseling
• Experience working directly with employers to promote inclusive hiring

Why Join Us?

• Mission-Driven Work: Help young people unlock their full potential
• Supportive Culture: Collaborative team environment
• Professional Growth: Opportunities to expand your impact and skills
• Inclusive Values: Work with an organization that prioritizes equity and accessibility

Ready to make a meaningful impact? Apply today by emailing a copy of your resume to Morgan Unruh the Program Compliance Analyst at Morgan@kansasworkforceone.org

Please note that employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check.

Employee experience: This position may require travel to meet with clients, attend employer meetings, or participate in community events. Flexible scheduling may be necessary to accommodate participant needs, including occasional evenings and weekends. This position requires the ability to sit for extended periods, operate standard office equipment, and occasionally lift up to 25 pounds. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Must possess a valid driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle.

Salary and Benefits: Salary is based on experience and qualifications. Benefits package may include health insurance, retirement savings plan, paid time off, and opportunities for professional development.

Equal Opportunity Employer: Kansas WorkforceONE is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We encourage individuals with disabilities and members of other underrepresented groups to apply.

Mission Statement The Local Area I Workforce Development Board exists to connect employers to a motivated workforce having skills to obtain and maintain meaningful employment throughout its 96-county community.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $18.00 - $22.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 403(b)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Mileage reimbursement
• On-the-job training
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

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