The primary objective of the Employer Liaison & Recovery Advocate is to cultivate and maintain strong relationships with employers to create job placement opportunities for program participants. This role supports individuals facing economic hardship, mental health diagnoses, intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), substance use disorders (SUD), opioid use disorders (OUD), and those re-entering the workforce after incarceration. Emphasizing lived experience, such as serving as a peer support person or recovery coach, the liaison will play a vital role in advocating for underrepresented populations, educating employers on the value of inclusive hiring, and providing comprehensive support throughout the employment process. Additionally, the liaison will work to de-stigmatize OUDs in the workplace. Human resources experience is a plus.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

· Cultivate Relationships:

o Establish and maintain strong relationships with employers across various industries to secure job placement opportunities for WDP participants.

o Actively seek out new employer partnerships and expand the network of supportive employers.

· Employer Education:

o Educate employers about the benefits of hiring individuals from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds, emphasizing the value they bring to the workforce.

o Educate employers on OUD/SUD/MH to foster inclusive and supportive work environments.

o Promote inclusive hiring practices and provide guidance on accommodating the unique needs of program participants.

o Conduct training for managers and staff to create a compassionate workplace.

· Inclusive Hiring Practices:

o Advocate for hiring practices that do not discriminate against individuals with a history of substance use or mental health challenges.

· Legal Education:

o Educate employers about legal rights and responsibilities related to employing individuals with OUD/SUD/MH.

· Job Placement Coordination:

o Work closely with employers to identify suitable job openings that align with the skills, interests, and needs of WDP participants.

o Facilitate the job placement process, including arranging interviews, providing necessary documentation, and offering support during onboarding.

· Participant Support:

o Collaborate with Workforce Development Coordinators, case managers and career coaches to ensure participants are prepared for employment, addressing any barriers to success.

o Provide ongoing support to participants and employers to ensure a smooth transition and successful job retention.

· Peer Support Integration:

o Utilize lived experience to build trust with employers and participants, providing a unique perspective that fosters understanding.

· Partnerships with Support Organizations:

o Facilitate partnerships between employers and community organizations specializing in addiction recovery and mental health services for ongoing employee support.

· Advocacy and Outreach:

o Advocate for the hiring of individuals facing economic hardship, mental health challenges, IDD, SUD/OUD, and reentry, highlighting the positive impact of inclusive employment.

o Participate in community events, job fairs, social media posting and networking opportunities to promote the WDP and build awareness among employers.

· And other duties are requested.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $18.00 - $22.00 per hour

Benefits:

Paid time off
Retirement plan

Schedule:

Monday to Friday
Weekends as needed

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Ability to Commute:

Greensburg, PA 15601 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

Greensburg, PA 15601: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

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Recovery advocate/employer liaison