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- Tasks: Support individuals with health conditions to find and keep jobs they love.
- Company: Join a dynamic team making a real difference in Leeds.
- Benefits: Full-time role with competitive pay and flexible hybrid working.
- Other info: Travel required; great opportunity for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Empower others while developing your skills in a rewarding environment.
- Qualifications: Level 4 qualification or relevant experience in employment support.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Leeds - this is a hybrid role with regular travel to sites across the Leeds area. This is a full-time permanent role (37 hours per week) commencing in March 2026 - Subject to contract win.
Job Purpose: The role of Employment Specialist is to deliver a programme, providing person-centred employment support to individuals with health conditions, disabilities, and complex barriers to work. Using a Supported Employment model (SEQF), the role holder will enable participants to explore, gain, and sustain competitive paid employment. The role will involve partnership working with Jobcentre Plus, local employers, NHS and social care services, refugee organisations, and wider community stakeholders, to create pathways into work and deliver ongoing support to ensure job retention and sustainable outcomes.
The post holder will be expected to work with a caseload of 20 – 25 individuals with health conditions, disabilities, and complex barriers to work defined as wishing to gain competitive (paid) employment. The post will involve working in more than one location, travel will be required, and it is therefore essential that the role holder can travel independently within the contract defined region. It may be necessary on occasion for the post holder to work outside of standard office hours.
Person Specification:
- A relevant Level 4 qualification (e.g., in Information, Advice and Guidance; Health and Social Care; Supported Employment) OR equivalent, substantial experience in a related field.
- A comprehensive understanding of the systemic and personal barriers faced by individuals with health conditions, disabilities, and refugee backgrounds in accessing and sustaining employment.
- In-depth knowledge of the local and regional labour markets, including growth sectors, employer needs, and available training opportunities.
- Understanding of Supported Employment, in particular the Supported Employment Quality Framework (SEQF).
- Degree level qualification in a relevant field.
- Knowledge of safeguarding frameworks and responsibilities.
- Demonstrable experience managing a caseload of individuals with complex needs and multiple barriers, guiding them to achieve sustainable employment outcomes.
- Experience using coaching or motivational interviewing techniques.
- Proven ability to engage and influence employers to create employment opportunities.
- Experience working to and achieving outcome targets.
- Previous Supported Employment experience or Supported Employment trained.
- Sales, recruitment, or account management experience.
- Direct or indirect experience of supporting those with disabilities, health conditions or complex barriers to employment.
A full list of job objectives can be found in the job description.
Employment Specialist in Leeds employer: Education Development Trust
Contact Detail:
Education Development Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Employment Specialist in Leeds
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend local job fairs, workshops, or community events where you can meet potential employers and other professionals. Remember, it’s all about who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your pitch! You never know when you’ll bump into someone who could help you land that dream job. Prepare a short, engaging introduction about yourself and what you’re looking for. Keep it casual but professional!
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up after interviews! If you’ve had a chat with a potential employer, don’t just sit back and wait. Send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your interest in the role. It shows you’re keen and proactive!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for you. By applying directly, you’ll have a better chance of standing out and getting noticed. Plus, it’s super easy to navigate!
We think you need these skills to ace Employment Specialist in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Employment Specialist role. Highlight your relevant experience, especially any work with individuals facing barriers to employment. We want to see how your skills align with our mission!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about supporting individuals with health conditions and disabilities. Share specific examples of how you've made a difference in similar roles.
Showcase Your Knowledge: Demonstrate your understanding of the Supported Employment model and the challenges faced by our target groups. We love candidates who can show they know their stuff and are ready to hit the ground running!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join the StudySmarter team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Education Development Trust
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the Supported Employment model and the specific challenges faced by individuals with health conditions and disabilities. Brush up on local labour market trends and be ready to discuss how you can help bridge the gap between these individuals and potential employers.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare examples from your past roles where you've successfully managed a caseload or used coaching techniques. Highlight any specific instances where you’ve helped someone overcome barriers to employment, as this will demonstrate your hands-on experience and commitment to the role.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Don’t just answer questions; engage in a conversation. Ask insightful questions about their current partnerships with local employers and how they measure success. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the company aligns with your values.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that test your problem-solving skills. Think about how you would handle various situations involving clients with complex needs. Practising these scenarios beforehand can help you articulate your thought process clearly during the interview.