Individual Placement and Support Specialist (IPS) - Employment Services - Baton Rouge, LA

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in a human services field, psychology, social work, or a related discipline.

Preferred Experience:

• 1-2 years of experience supporting individuals with mental health needs, with a focus on accessing or securing employment services.
• At least 1 year of experience in employment services, workforce development, vocational rehabilitation, or a related field.
• Experience in forward-facing roles such as community outreach, engagement, or service coordination.
• Familiarity with working alongside individuals with mental health and/or substance use disorders.
• Proficiency in using computers and electronic health records (EHR) is preferred.

The Individual Placement and Support (IPS) Specialist plays a vital role within the Mental Health Outpatient Program by delivering client-centered, recovery-focused employment services using the evidence-based IPS model. This role supports individuals with mental health and/or substance use challenges in securing competitive employment that aligns with their interests, strengths, and recovery goals. The IPS Specialist works in close partnership with behavioral health providers, employers, and community resources to integrate employment support into treatment and promote long-term stability and community inclusion. This role is based within a clinic setting and promotes recovery, empowerment, and community integration in alignment with evidence-based IPS practices.

Starting rate of $18.00 hour

Location: 711 Colonial Dr, Baton Rouge, LA 70806

Position Details

• Provide individualized, client-centered employment services using the IPS model, supporting participants in securing and maintaining competitive employment.
• Collaborate with clinical teams to integrate employment goals into treatment plans and address barriers through community resource connections.
• Conduct employer outreach and build partnerships to create inclusive job opportunities, while offering continued support to participants post-hire.
• Assist with job readiness activities including resume building, interview preparation, and workplace navigation.
• Ensure accurate documentation and participate in quality improvement and professional development related to IPS.

Benefits

Merakey offers generous benefits that promote well-being, financial security, and work-life balance, including:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus access to healthcare advocacy support.
• Retirement plan -- both pre-tax and Roth (after-tax) options available for employee contributions.
• DailyPay -- access your pay when you need it!
• On the Goga well-being platform, featuring self-care tools and resources.
• Access Care.com for backup childcare, elder care, and household services.
• Confidential counseling, legal, and financial services through our Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Tuition reimbursement and educational partnerships.
• Employee discounts and savings programs on entertainment, travel, and lifestyle.
• Access to Pryor Online Learning for free online personal development classes.

Learn more about our full benefits package - https://www.merakey.org/careers/benefits

About Merakey

Merakey is a non-profit provider of developmental, behavioral health, and education services. More than 8,000 employees provide support to nearly 40,000 individuals and families throughout 12 states across the country each year. Click here to watch a video about Merakey. Merakey strictly follows a zero-tolerance policy for abuse.

Merakey is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer! We deeply value diversity and do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, ethnic background, sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, genetic information, or disability status. Moreover, we are committed to creating teams that reflect the diversity of the communities we serve and encourage applicants from underrepresented backgrounds to apply. Merakey welcomes all Veterans to apply!