At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals with disabilities to find and sustain meaningful employment.
- Company: Join Stoke-on-Trent City Council, committed to diversity and inclusion.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, excellent pension scheme, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Empathetic and resilient candidates who value diversity are encouraged to apply.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while building strong community connections.
- Qualifications: Level 3 qualification in supported employment or equivalent experience required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Contract: 12 months; Hours per week: 37.
We are seeking a motivated and compassionate Employment Specialist to deliver the Department for Work and Pensions’ Connect to Work programme in Stoke-on-Trent. This voluntary supported employment programme helps people with disabilities, health conditions and complex barriers move into and sustain meaningful employment.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide one-to-one, person-centred employment support; develop SMART action plans with clear employment goals.
- Support CV writing, job search, applications and interview preparation.
- Deliver high quality Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG); build and maintain strong relationships with local employers.
- Source vacancies, including hidden opportunities, and negotiate job opportunities.
- Support workplace adjustments and job carving where appropriate.
- Provide on-the-job coaching and sustained in-work support.
- Maintain accurate case records and contribute to performance targets.
- Work in community venues and employer settings across the city.
About You
- Holds a Level 3 qualification (or equivalent experience) in supported employment or a related field.
- Has experience supporting people with disabilities or those facing labour market exclusion.
- Understands employment legislation and workplace adjustments.
- Has experience of employer engagement and securing paid job outcomes.
- Can manage a caseload effectively in a performance-driven environment.
- Is confident building partnerships with employers, training providers and community organisations.
- Can advocate on behalf of clients and negotiate positively.
- Demonstrates empathy, resilience and a non‑judgemental approach.
- Is committed to equality, diversity and inclusive employment.
What We Offer
- A competitive salary based on your skills, experience and talent.
- Hybrid and flexible working options.
- An excellent local authority benefits pension scheme.
- Professional development through learning opportunities, regular training sessions and apprenticeship and management schemes.
Pre-Employment Checks
- Right to Work in the UK.
- Proof of address.
- Satisfactory references.
- Occupational Health Clearance.
- Evidence of professional qualifications or registrations.
- DBS check at the appropriate level (if applicable for the role).
If you are currently at risk of redundancy within the organisation, your application will receive priority.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
At Stoke-on-Trent City Council, we believe our strength comes from the diversity of our community, and we want our workforce to reflect that. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences. We understand that some people, especially those from underrepresented or marginalised backgrounds, may hesitate to apply if they don’t meet all the listed requirements. If this role interests you and you think you could be a good fit, we encourage you to apply. We are proud of what makes each of us unique and are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels included, can be themselves, and can succeed together.
Employment Specialist employer: Stoke-on-Trent City Council
Stoke-on-Trent City Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that values diversity and community engagement. With hybrid working options and a commitment to professional development, employees can thrive in their roles while contributing to meaningful housing repairs and projects that enhance the local community. The council prioritises employee well-being and provides a competitive salary, making it an attractive place for those seeking rewarding employment.
Contact Details:
Stoke-on-Trent City Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Employment Specialist
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in your field. Attend local events, join online forums, or even hit up social media groups. The more people you know, the better your chances of hearing about job openings before they’re advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Before any interview, do some mock interviews with friends or family. This will help you get comfortable with your answers and boost your confidence. Remember, it’s all about showing your personality and how you can make a difference!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply for jobs; create opportunities! Reach out to companies you admire, even if they don’t have open positions. A well-crafted email expressing your interest can lead to hidden job opportunities that aren’t advertised.
✨Tip Number 4
Keep your online presence sharp! Update your LinkedIn profile and showcase your skills and experiences. Engage with content related to your field and connect with industry professionals. It’s a great way to get noticed and land that dream job!
We think you need these skills to ace Employment Specialist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Employment Specialist role. Highlight your experience in supporting people with disabilities and any relevant qualifications. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about helping others find meaningful employment. Share specific examples of your past experiences that relate to the job description.
Showcase Your Empathy:In your application, let us know how you demonstrate empathy and resilience. This role is all about supporting individuals facing barriers, so sharing personal stories or experiences can really make you stand out.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and allows you to keep track of your application status easily!
How to prepare for a job interview at Stoke-on-Trent City Council
✨Know the Programme Inside Out
Familiarise yourself with the Connect to Work programme and its objectives. Understand how it supports individuals with disabilities and health conditions, as this will show your genuine interest and commitment during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Empathy
Prepare examples that highlight your compassionate approach to supporting clients. Discuss specific instances where you've successfully helped someone overcome barriers to employment, demonstrating your ability to connect on a personal level.
✨Be Ready to Discuss SMART Goals
Since developing SMART action plans is key in this role, be prepared to explain what SMART goals are and how you would implement them. Think of examples from your past experience where you set clear, achievable goals for clients.
✨Engage with Local Employers
Research local employers and their hiring practices. Be ready to discuss how you would build relationships with them and source job opportunities, including hidden vacancies. This shows your proactive approach and understanding of employer engagement.
