Location
Sunderland – this hybrid role requires regular travel to sites across the Sunderland area.
Employment
Full‑time permanent – 37 hours per week commencing December 2025, subject to contract win.
Job Purpose
The Employment Specialist will deliver a person‑centred employment programme for individuals with health conditions, disabilities and complex barriers to work, using a Supported Employment model (IPS or SEQF). The role will enable participants to explore, gain and sustain competitive paid employment, partnering with Jobcentre Plus, local employers, NHS and social care services, refugee organisations and community stakeholders to create pathways into work and provide ongoing support to ensure job retention and sustainable outcomes.
Key Responsibilities
• Manage a caseload of 20‑25 individuals with complex needs and multiple barriers to work, exploring, securing and sustaining competitive paid employment.
• Work independently across multiple locations, travelling within the defined contract region.
• Partner with Jobcentre Plus, local employers, NHS and social care services, refugee organisations and community stakeholders to create work pathways and deliver support for job retention.
• Engage and influence employers to create employment opportunities for participants.
• Achieve outcome targets and provide coaching or motivational interviewing techniques to support participants.
Knowledge
Essential
* Relevant Level 4 qualification in Information, Advice and Guidance; Health and Social Care; Supported Employment, or equivalent experience.
* Comprehensive understanding of systemic and personal barriers faced by individuals with health conditions, disabilities and refugee backgrounds.
* Labour market intelligence of Sunderland – growth sectors, employer needs and training opportunities.
Desirable
* Understanding of IPS principles and fidelity standards or SEQF.
* Degree level qualification in a relevant field.
* Knowledge of safeguarding frameworks and responsibilities.
Experience
Essential
* Demonstrable experience managing a caseload of complex individuals and guiding them to sustainable employment outcomes.
* Experience using coaching or motivational interviewing techniques.
* Proven ability to engage and influence employers to create employment opportunities.
* Experience working to and achieving outcome targets.
Desirable
* Previous Supported Employment experience or training.
* Sales, recruitment or account management experience.
* Direct or indirect experience of supporting those with disabilities, health conditions or complex barriers to employment.
How to Apply
Complete and submit a fully completed application form through our website. This position is not sponsoring – candidates must already have the right to work in the UK.
Salary & Benefits
£28,731.00 per annum
30 days holiday plus bank holidays (pro‑rota)
2 days of paid volunteering per year (pro‑rota)
Matched Pension Scheme
Life Assurance
Discounted gym memberships
Health care cash plan
Retail discounts
Cycle to work scheme
Wellbeing App
Access to training portal to support CPD
Equal Opportunities
Edt is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults. All applicants are subject to thorough screening and the relevant level of criminal record checks. Edt is a Disability Confident Leader and supports disabled applicants throughout the application process.
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