Connect to Work Employment Specialist - Taunton / Yeovil

Role overview

Somerset Council is seeking Employment Specialists for its Connect to Work programme. This fixed-term opportunity runs until 31 March 2030 and is designed for people who want to make a meaningful difference in their local area by helping residents overcome barriers to employment and move toward stable, rewarding work.

The role is based in local communities across Somerset, with opportunities centred around Taunton or Yeovil for some of the participant groups. The council is looking for applicants who know their communities well, enjoy working directly with local people, and can develop effective relationships with employers and support organisations.

Who you will support

You will work with people who are facing a range of challenges that make finding or keeping work more difficult. This may include individuals with health conditions, disabilities, or mental health concerns; people who have been unemployed for a long time; young people entering employment for the first time; and people in drug and alcohol recovery.

Experience in every one of these areas is not required. The team understands that candidates may bring strengths in one or two of them, and there is support to build further expertise on the job. Applicants are encouraged to highlight any specific interest or relevant background in their application.

What the role involves

As an Employment Specialist, you will provide personalised one-to-one support to help participants reach their employment goals. This includes practical help with job searching, preparing CVs and applications, and getting ready for interviews.

You will also work closely with employers and partner organisations to open up job opportunities, support people to overcome obstacles to work, and arrange the help or workplace adjustments they need. Ongoing progress monitoring will be part of the role so that participants continue to receive support once they are in work.

Training and support

Previous experience in a supported employment model is not required. Full training will be provided, including approaches such as Individual Placement and Support (IPS) and the Supported Employment Quality Framework (SEQF). You will also receive continuing guidance to help you succeed in the role.

Skills, experience and approach

The council is looking for people with a background in employment advice, guidance, or support, especially where they have worked with individuals who face barriers such as disability, ill health, or complex personal circumstances.

Strong communication, relationship-building, and motivational skills are important, along with a compassionate, person-centred mindset. The role also calls for teamwork with employers, service partners, and other stakeholders, plus the ability to stay organised, handle a varied caseload, and manage competing priorities.

A proactive and resilient approach is valued, especially when tackling difficult situations and finding practical solutions. Knowledge of employment support services, safeguarding, equality, diversity, and inclusion is helpful, as is confidence using Microsoft Office and digital case management systems.

Working pattern and contract details

This is a fixed-term contract until 31 March 2030. The council welcomes flexible working requests and can consider full-time, part-time, job share, and compressed hours.

Interviews are planned for Monday 27 July 2026. The organisation is recruiting several Employment Specialists to support participants across Somerset, so candidates based in different parts of the county are encouraged to apply because the work involves travel throughout the area.

Pay and leave

The salary is Grade 13, with a range of £25,989 to £28,142 per year. Employees receive 25 days of annual leave in addition to bank holidays.

Additional information

Somerset Council sits at the heart of the Connect to Work programme within its Economic Development, Skills and Climate Service. The wider team works with employers, health services, training providers, and community partners to improve lives, strengthen communities, and expand economic inclusion across the county.

Candidates must already have the right to work in the UK, as sponsorship is not available for this position. If you would like an informal conversation about the role, you can contact Kate Blowfield, Connect to Work Manager, by email at kate.blowfield@somerset.gov.uk.

A full job description is available for this position.