Job Title: Workforce Development Specialist
 Salary: $22.15 - $25.10 per hour, DOE. Benefits include a health care stipend, paid time off (PTO), and paid holidays.
 Open Positions: 2
 Employment Type: Full-Time
 Reports To: Housing & Workforce Development Supervisor
 Location: St. Cloud and Twin Cities

Organization Summary:Join CAIRO, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering BIPOC and low-income communities, including African immigrants and refugees. Our mission is driven by a commitment to providing equitable access to education, health services, workforce development, and housing, recognizing these as the cornerstones of thriving communities. Through collaborative and comprehensive programs, we strive for sustainable change and the active involvement of the communities we serve.

Position Summary: As a Workforce Development Specialist, you will play a key role in facilitating training and employment opportunities for our community members. Acting as a crucial bridge between local employers and program participants, you will ensure clients are connected to suitable training programs and employment opportunities, fostering a supportive and compliant environment in line with our organizational goals and state policies.

Essential Functions:

• Conduct thorough case management and follow-up, ensuring the achievement of positive outcomes and contract goals.
• Assess program eligibility, complete enrollment documentation, and provide comprehensive support to participants.
• Develop and implement employer engagement strategies to promote job placement and learning opportunities.
• Coordinate with partners to offer sector-specific training programs aligned with industry needs.
• Engage with employers to introduce our workforce development services and facilitate employment opportunities for participants.
• Maintain proactive communication with participants, offering support to enhance job retention and success.
• Represent our organization at professional gatherings, contributing to the promotion and networking of our services.
• Assist in the administration of the Gateways2Growth project and other duties as required.

Education and Experience Requirements:

• A minimum of two years’ experience working with BIPOC and low-income communities.
• Fluency in languages relevant to African immigrant communities (e.g., Somali, Amharic, Oromo, Kiswahili) preferred.
• Previous experience in career counseling or case management is advantageous.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and documentation skills.
• A bachelor’s degree in Community Development, Education, Social Work, Human Resources, or a related field is preferred.

Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite