About the role

Uniting headspace Work and Study team in Penrith currently have the following Vocational Specialist opportunities:

• 2 * Full time contract opportunities until 30th June 2025

Working under the evidenced based Individual Placement Support Principles (IPS) model, the Vocational Specialist will support young people aged 12-25 by providing vocational counselling and guidance.

Support will include conducting an initial vocational assessment as well as running individual and group sessions to better understand the vocational needs of young people, and to work with them to build capacity and assist them with securing and sustaining employment.

About the program

headspace Work and Study program support young people with everything education and employment related. From finding your first job to deciding what to study, our vocational specialists provide tailored 1-on-1 support with young people and their mental health clinician to reach the goals.

About You

• Certificate IV or Diploma in Mental Health, Community Services or Training and Assessment (highly desirable)
• Enthusiastic about working with young people and a sound knowledge of the challenges faced by young people experiencing mental health issues.
• The ability to initiate and develop positive connections with relevant educational and employment focused agencies, programs, and services in the local community. 
• Knowledge of the principles of evidence-based supported employment.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and deliver person-centred plans and supports
• Ability to network effectively with key stakeholders, community organisations, clinical staff and employers
• Ability to negotiate with and influence a variety of stakeholders to achieve a mutually beneficial outcome
• NSW Drivers Licence and willingness to visit clients in the community 

Why Work at Uniting? 

As an organisation we celebrate our diversity and welcome all people regardless of ethnicity, faith, sexual orientation and gender identity. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and people from a diverse cultural background are encouraged to apply.  

• Ongoing training & development, including cultural awareness training 

• Career progression & development opportunities 

• To work within a strong multidisciplinary team

• Do you want to increase your disposable income by reducing the tax you pay?  As a Uniting employee you can package up to $15,900 from your salary for every day purchases, and up to $2650 for entertainment purposes. 
• Access to Fitness Passport – Live your best life.
• Access to our U rewards program with exclusive discounts. 
• To have a career that matters in an organisation that focuses on making an impact

If you want to become a part of our positive and respected team, do not hesitate to apply now.

To be considered for this position you MUST upload your resume as well as a Cover Letter responding to the two Targeted Questions below (2 A4 page max);

• TQ1: Tell us about your ability to encourage young people from a range of socio-economic and cultural backgrounds to participate in education and employment and how you work in partnership with young people to achieve their goals.
  
• TQ2:  Tell us about your demonstrated skills and experience in initiating and developing positive connections with relevant educational and employment focused agencies, programs, and services in the local community. 

Should you have any questions, please contact Pallavi Bhatia from Uniting's Talent Acquisition Team on [email protected] using the subject line: Vocational Specialists x2 enquiry via EthicalJobs.

Employment with Uniting is subject to satisfactory background checks, which include National Police Checks, Working with Children Checks and Reference Checks.