Job Search Specialist

POSITION: Job Search Specialist

Pay range: $22.93 - $27.24 per hour

STATUS: Full Time with Benefits

PROGRAM(S): Community Works Project (CWP)

Reports To: Engagement and Resource Navigation Supervisor

GENERAL POSITION SUMMARY:

The Community Works Project (CWP) is a 3-agency (IRCO Our Just Future SEI) collaborative project providing job preparation and placement services to Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) participants who are participating in Job Opportunities Basic Skills (JOBS) program. CWP is located on-site at the Department of Human Services (DHS) branches. Job Search Specialists at CWP are responsible for guiding their participants toward job readiness and placement through an individualized plan.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The following are some of the tasks/duties and responsibilities:

1. Provide Job search step activities to referred members including but not limited to (writing resumes interviewing skills employment application attending job fairs job search preparation classes..)
2. Provide workforce case management to referred JOBS participants including assessments Employment Plan development job search and placement work readiness and skill building activities.
3. Refer participants to employment and volunteer opportunities developed by Business Services Coordinators or guide them in creating their own opportunities in the community.
4. Share and coordinate employment opportunities and resources with CWP team.
5. Work closely with Resource Navigation Specialists to Effectively utilize CWP partners leveraged resources to remove participants barriers to employment opportunities and increase their chances to become self-sufficient.
6. Track participants attendance and activities through multiple database systems.
7. Regularly communicate with CWP RN specialist and DHS case managers on JOBS participants activities progress and challenges through IM TRACS phone calls emails and regular meetings.
8. Participate in trainings and meetings as required to ensure project outcomes achievement.
9. Submit weekly and monthly reports on a strict timeline.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

This job has no supervisory responsibilities

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelors Degree in social service/social sciences field with at least six (6) months experience providing workforce development services; or any combination of education and work experience in social services employment development and case management totaling four years.

• Experience with pre-employment activities and job search development.
• Advanced knowledge and/or experience in job development and placement activities.
• Knowledge and/or experience of vocational and/or placement counseling for immigrant and refugee populations. Knowledge of the local job market and concerns of employers.

REQUIRED FUNCTIONS KNOWLEDGE SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

Any combination of education and experience that demonstrates the ability to perform the duties of the position is qualifying and would typically include:

1. Experience with pre-employment activities and job search development
2. Advanced knowledge and/or experience in job development and placement activities
3. Knowledge of the local job market and concerns of employers
4. Ability to function in a positive manner in a demanding work environment to demonstrate a high degree of flexibility to respond to priorities and schedules that change frequently.
5. Ability to meet multiple sometimes conflicting deadlines
6. Strong analytical and decision-making abilities
7. Ability to deal with distressed and/or demanding participants and employees in an effective manner
8. Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and make good judgments as it pertains to participants
9. Ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality
10. Strong skills in intercultural interpersonal and organizational communication
11. Ability to communicate in a positive manner verbally in writing and by phone
12. Ability to communicate with a variety of personality types and levels of the organization as well as with persons outside of the organization
13. Ability to listen for understanding and assist in problem solving
14. Ability to prepare clear accurate and concise reports
15. Be punctual good attendance and be able to work flexible hours to meet the availability of participants
16. Ability to use basic office equipment telephone copy machine fax machine and computer
17. Ability to sit stand walk drive talk on the phone and/or use computer for long periods of time
18. Possess a valid drivers license and verification of current auto-insurance and have full use of automobile during work hours
19. Participate in staff meetings trainings committees and volunteer activities to support Human Solutions goals

KNOWLEDGE:

Education:Bachelors Degree

Experience:1-2 years of experience is required

Licensure Certification:

Additional Language Required: Proficiency in a second language other than English preferred.

Computers: Require use of a computer and experience working with Microsoft Products including but not limited to Microsoft 365 Excel Word Outlook and addition this position specifically requires Intermediate to Advanced proficiency in MS Office Suite. Must also be able to learn and use moderately complex databases. In addition this position specifically requires a reliable internet connection with the ability to handle video calls and databases; and reliable cell phone coverage.

SKILLS:

Communication:

Some interaction with those inside and outside the organization to exchange factual information (3)

Creativity:

Regular need for redesign of a single focus process or procedure is needed (3)

EFFORT:

Mental:

There is regular variation in tasks and the job holder must decide which tasks to complete as well as the order in which tasks are completed (3)

Physical:

Positions at this level require minimal physical effort such as light lifting carrying or movement etc. Physical capability involves use of office or equipment where some agility and hand eye coordination is needed (2)

RESPONSIBILITY:

Impact and Influence:

Minimal need or ability to analyze problem or concepts or make decisions on the information. Dollar amounts influenced would be considered small. Responsibility for the prudent use of assets does not extend beyond own work responsibilities. (2)

Work Independence:

Positions at this level are expected to handle regularly assigned work which includes making decisions and taking action under limited supervision. New or unusual work is performed with a moderate degree of supervision assistance and review. (3)

Planning:

Positions at this level must be able to foresee issues associated with own work and identify future needs for supplies equipment resources which would stall operations or activities. (2)

Supervision:

Positions at this level are not responsible for any supervisory functions or responsibilities but may occasionally be asked to orient and/or train new employees or volunteers. (1)

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Environment:

This level has a work environment that is usually well protected free from hazards or obstacles. There is little element of personal risk or hazard Job conditions are usually comfortable with only occasional issues temperature change (2)

Schedule:

The work schedule is stable and does not fluctuate. (1)

HOW TO APPLY:

Please send resume with cover letter and three professional references. References need not be written simply the names and contact information for three people who are familiar with your work. At least one should be a supervisor or former supervisor. Open until filled. No phone calls please.