At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals facing barriers to employment and help them secure meaningful jobs.
- Company: Sandwell Council, a values-led organisation making a real impact in the community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, excellent benefits, and a strong focus on employee development.
- Other info: Join a supportive team dedicated to inclusion and opportunity for all.
- Why this job: Make a visible difference in people's lives by helping them achieve sustainable employment.
- Qualifications: Level 3 qualification in IAG or relevant experience supporting disadvantaged groups.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Support people. Remove barriers. Enable sustainable employment. Connect to Work is a voluntary, 12‑month supported employment programme designed to help Sandwell residents move into meaningful, sustained paid work. We are looking for a Specialist Employment Adviser to deliver high-quality, intensive support to individuals facing barriers to employment, particularly those with disabilities, health conditions or from disadvantaged backgrounds. This is a role for someone who believes that everyone can work with the right support, and who is motivated by making a visible difference in people’s lives.
The opportunity
As a Specialist Employment Adviser, you will manage a small caseload of participants, delivering tailored, person-centred support using recognised models such as Individual Placement Support (IPS) or the Supported Employment Quality Framework (SEQF). You will work directly with individuals to understand their goals, strengths and barriers, supporting them into sustainable employment and helping them to thrive in the workplace. This is a delivery-focused role, requiring strong relationship-building skills, resilience and a commitment to achieving outcomes.
What you’ll be accountable for
- Provide intensive, one-to-one employment support tailored to individual needs
- Manage a small caseload, maintaining regular contact and progression planning
- Support participants to secure and sustain paid employment
- Work closely with employers, partners and support networks to create opportunities
- Identify and address barriers to employment, including health, confidence and skills gaps
- Deliver outcomes in line with agreed employment targets and programme expectations
- Maintain accurate records and contribute to performance reporting
- Apply IPS or SEQF principles to ensure high-quality, consistent support
Who we’re looking for:
- A Level 3 qualification in Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG) or a relevant equivalent (e.g. Employment Related Services, Supported Employment Practitioner, Careers) - Desirable
- Level 2 English and Maths
- Experience supporting people with disabilities, health conditions or disadvantaged groups into employment
- A track record of working towards and achieving employment-related targets
- Strong understanding of the barriers individuals face when entering or returning to work
- Excellent communication, organisational and motivational skills
- A person-centred, empathetic approach with a strong belief in inclusion and opportunity
Why Sandwell Council? At Sandwell Council, our work has a real impact. We are proud to be a values-led organisation that supports its employees with excellent benefits, a competitive remuneration package, and a strong focus on development. By joining us, you’ll play a key role in delivering services that make a real and lasting difference to thousands of people across the borough.
Specialist Employment Adviser – Connect to Work employer: Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council
At Sandwell Council, we are dedicated to making a meaningful impact in our community, and as a Specialist Employment Adviser, you will be at the forefront of this mission. Our supportive work culture prioritises employee development and well-being, offering competitive benefits and opportunities for growth within a values-led organisation. Join us in creating sustainable employment solutions that empower individuals and transform lives in Sandwell.
Contact Details:
Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Specialist Employment Adviser – Connect to Work
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in your field. 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 summary of your skills and what you’re looking for, so you can impress them on the spot.
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in showing your appreciation and keeping you top of mind. It’s a simple gesture that demonstrates your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for you. Plus, applying directly shows your interest in our organisation and helps us get to know you better.
We think you need these skills to ace Specialist Employment Adviser – Connect to Work
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Specialist Employment Adviser role. Highlight your experience supporting individuals with disabilities or from disadvantaged backgrounds, and show how your skills align with our mission to remove barriers and enable sustainable employment.
Showcase Your Passion:We want to see your motivation for making a difference in people's lives. In your application, share specific examples of how you've helped others overcome challenges and achieve their goals. This will help us understand your commitment to our values.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate well-structured applications that make it easy for us to see your qualifications and experiences relevant to the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, you’ll find all the information you need about the application process there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the Connect to Work programme and its goals. Familiarise yourself with models like Individual Placement Support (IPS) and the Supported Employment Quality Framework (SEQF). This will show that you're not just interested in the role, but also passionate about making a difference.
✨Showcase Your Empathy
As a Specialist Employment Adviser, you'll be working with individuals facing various barriers. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully supported someone through challenges. Highlight your person-centred approach and how you believe in inclusion and opportunity for everyone.
✨Build Relationships
Strong relationship-building skills are key for this role. Think of ways you've collaborated with employers or partners in the past. Be ready to discuss how you can create opportunities for participants by leveraging these relationships effectively.
✨Demonstrate Your Resilience
This role requires a commitment to achieving outcomes despite challenges. Prepare to share instances where you've faced obstacles in your work and how you overcame them. This will illustrate your determination and ability to thrive in a delivery-focused environment.
