At a Glance
- Tasks: Support young people in finding and sustaining meaningful employment through tailored guidance.
- Company: Join Groundwork NE & Cumbria, a charity dedicated to creating better communities.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive environment, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young people's lives while building valuable relationships.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and a passion for helping others succeed.
Salary: £28,383 – £31,683 per annum
Hours: Full Time – 37hpw
Contract: Fixed Term initially until March 2028
Location: Based in the North East Combined Authority Region – 1 x Newcastle & 1 x North Tyneside
About Us
Groundwork NE & Cumbria is a long‑established environmental and community charity with over 30 years of experience creating greener, healthier and more resilient places across the region. Our mission centres on Creating Better Places, Improving People’s Prospects, and Promoting Greener Living, helping communities thrive no matter the challenges they face. We deliver hundreds of locally‑led projects each year, including initiatives that support young people into education, training and employment, helping them overcome barriers, build life skills, and reach their full potential.
About The Role
We’re looking for an Employment Specialist to support the delivery of our Connect to Work programme. You’ll use the Individual Placement & Support (IPS) model to provide person‑centred IAG support to a caseload of about 25 clients, helping them move into and sustain meaningful employment. You’ll build strong employer relationships to source suitable vacancies and work closely with partners including health providers, mental health services, JCP, and other employment organisations to ensure joined‑up support. This role is subject to an Enhanced Disclosure endorsed by the Disclosure and Barring Service.
About You
- Passionate in supporting young people to overcome barriers and achieve their potential.
- A strong communicator, confident engaging with clients, employers and partners.
- Equipped with strong analytical and problem‑solving ability, able to assess needs and identify effective employment solutions.
- Person‑centred, empathetic and passionate about helping others succeed.
- Skilled at building positive, trusting relationships.
- Highly organised with the ability to manage a varied caseload and meet deadlines.
- Confident working independently and collaboratively.
A full driving licence and the ability to work flexible hours when required would be beneficial.
For more information on the role, or for an informal discussion please contact Natalie Wrench (Partnership Manager) on 07817 960233 or natalie.wrench@groundwork.org.uk.
Want to apply? Great. All you need to do is complete the application form below.
Closing date: Midnight on Tuesday 24th March 2026
Please note, should we receive a high volume of applications, we may look to close the role early, therefore we recommend an early application.
Make Yourself At Home
We want you to be yourself at Groundwork and we value everything that makes you unique. We recognise and celebrate your difference and together we make Groundwork a special and great place to work. As a Disability Confident employer we offer a guaranteed interview to applicants with a disability who meet the essential criteria for the role. At Groundwork we ensure that we provide a safe environment for adults, children and young people to take part in any activity or service that we organise. We are committed to creating a culture that promotes safeguarding and the welfare of all children, young people and adults at risk.
This role is not eligible for UK Visa Sponsorship – the successful applicant will need to have a pre‑existing Right to Work in the UK in order to be offered an employment contract. We reserve the right to close this advert at any time.
Employment Specialist – Connect To Work in Newcastle upon Tyne employer: Groundwork NE & Cumbria
Groundwork North East & Cumbria is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and varied role as a Maintenance Officer where you can truly make a difference in the community. With a supportive team environment, opportunities for skill development across multiple sites, and the autonomy to manage your own workload, you'll find meaningful work that positively impacts local areas. Plus, the roving nature of the role allows for diverse experiences while enjoying the beautiful landscapes of the North East and Cumbria.
Contact Details:
Groundwork NE & Cumbria Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Employment Specialist – Connect To Work in Newcastle upon Tyne
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Groundwork NE & Cumbria and their Connect to Work programme. Understanding their mission and values will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing the Employment Specialist role. Personal connections can give you an edge!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to supporting young people and building employer relationships. Role-play with a friend or use online resources to boost your confidence before the big day.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and serious about joining the team at Groundwork. Don’t wait until the last minute – get your application in early!
We think you need these skills to ace Employment Specialist – Connect To Work in Newcastle upon Tyne
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When filling out your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your passion for helping others and your unique experiences.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the Employment Specialist role. Use keywords from the job description to show us you’re a perfect fit!
Showcase Your Communication Skills:As a strong communicator, it’s important to demonstrate this in your written application. Be clear and concise, and make sure to convey your enthusiasm for supporting clients and building relationships.
Apply Early:Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application! We recommend applying as soon as possible, especially since we might close the role early if we receive a lot of applications. Head over to our website and get started!
How to prepare for a job interview at Groundwork NE & Cumbria
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the Connect to Work programme and the IPS model. Familiarise yourself with Groundwork NE & Cumbria's mission and values, as well as their projects. This will show your genuine interest and help you connect your experience to their goals.
✨Showcase Your Passion
As an Employment Specialist, your passion for helping young people is key. Prepare examples of how you've supported individuals in overcoming barriers in the past. Use specific stories that highlight your empathy and problem-solving skills to demonstrate your commitment to making a difference.
✨Build Rapport
During the interview, focus on building a connection with your interviewers. Practice active listening and engage with their questions thoughtfully. Show that you can communicate effectively with clients, employers, and partners, which is crucial for this role.
✨Be Organised and Flexible
Highlight your organisational skills by discussing how you manage a varied caseload. Be ready to talk about your approach to meeting deadlines and adapting to changing circumstances. Mention any experience you have with flexible working hours, as this could be beneficial for the role.
