Director of Vocational & Employment Services

Location: Middletown, NY Other available locations include Mount Vernon, NY Salary: $115,000 Annually Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00AM-4:30PM with flexibility   OVERVIEW OF PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES: The Director of Vocational and Employment Services provides strategic leadership, operational oversight, and program development for all vocational and employment-related services across the Access: Supports for Living network. This role ensures that employment services are fully aligned with the organization's mission, vision, and person-centered philosophy, supporting individuals with behavioral health conditions, substance use disorders, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and other barriers to employment in achieving meaningful and sustainable work. The Director leads the planning, development, implementation, and continuous improvement of vocational services including, but not limited to, Access VR services, IDD Supported Employment, OASAS Vocational and Educational Services, Individual Placement and Support (IPS), OMH employment programs including those operating within the Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) model, and Pre-Vocational Services. The Director works collaboratively with organizational leadership and with Access Business Solutions to strengthen employment pathways, expand community partnerships, and develop innovative employment opportunities that improve economic independence and recovery outcomes for the individuals served. PRIMARY FUNCTIONS: Strategic Leadership Provide strategic leadership and vision for vocational and employment services across the Access network. Ensure services align with the mission, vision, and strategic priorities of Access: Supports for Living. Develop long-term program strategies that expand employment opportunities for individuals served. Identify and pursue new funding opportunities and program expansions in employment and workforce development. Lead the integration of evidence-based employment models. Program Development and Implementation Oversee the development, planning, and implementation of vocational and employment programs across all applicable service lines. Ensure compliance with regulatory and contractual requirements for programs including: Develop program policies, procedures, and service standards that support quality service delivery. Monitor program outcomes and performance metrics, ensuring programs meet or exceed expected outcomes. Lead program innovation to respond to evolving workforce needs and community opportunities. Operational Oversight Provide operational oversight for vocational and employment services across multiple locations. Ensure effective program management, staffing, and service coordination. Monitor productivity, program utilization, and financial performance of vocational programs. Develop and oversee program budgets in collaboration with finance leadership. Ensure programs operate efficiently while maintaining high standards of service quality. Staff Leadership and Development Provide leadership, supervision, and professional development to program leaders and staff within vocational services. Build a culture of collaboration, accountability, and innovation within the employment services team. Ensure staff are trained in evidence-based practices, including IPS and supported employment models. Promote staff engagement, retention, and professional growth. Collaboration and Partnerships Collaborate closely with Access Business Solutions leadership to expand employment opportunities and career pathways. Build partnerships with employers, workforce development organizations, educational institutions, and community stakeholders. Work with clinical and program leadership across the organization to integrate vocational services into treatment and recovery plans. Represent Access in workforce development and employment initiatives at local, regional, state and national levels. Quality Improvement and Compliance Ensure compliance with all applicable regulatory requirements, including those from OMH, OASAS, OPWDD, ACCES-VR, and CCBHC standards. Implement quality improvement initiatives to improve employment outcomes and service effectiveness. Monitor program data and outcomes to guide strategic decision-making and service improvements. Participate in audits, program reviews, and accreditation processes as required. QUALIFICATIONS AND ATTRIBUTES: Knowledge and Skills Strong knowledge of New York State employment and vocational service systems, including ACCES-VR, OMH, IDD and OASAS programs. Strong leadership, organizational, and strategic planning skills. Ability to build partnerships with employers and community stakeholders. Strong analytical, financial management, and program evaluation skills. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Core Competencies Strategic Leadership Program Development Workforce Development Expertise Collaboration and Partnership Building Data-Driven Decision Making Regulatory Compliance Staff Development and Mentorship EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: Education Master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling or related field and CRC or CWDP certification preferred. Minimum - Bachelor’s degree with extensive leadership experience in vocational and employment services Candidates with following certifications are encouraged to apply Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) Certified Employment Support Professional (CESP) Association of Community Rehabilitation Educators (ACRE) Certificate IPS Practitioner Training Certified Workforce Development Professional (CWDP) APSE Employment First Training CRC certification is preferred. Candidates without a current CRC certification must be willing and able to obtain the certification Experience 5 to 10 years of experience in vocational rehabilitation, supported employment, workforce development, or human services. 5 years of leadership or management experience overseeing programs and staff. Demonstrated experience with employment service models such as IPS, SEMP, and vocational rehabilitation services. Experience working with behavioral health, substance use, or disability service populations.   PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS: This position operates in a hybrid administrative and community-based environment, requiring travel between Access program locations and community partners