TITLE: CAREER DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST

STATUS: Full-time, Non-Exempt

QUALIFICATIONS: BS/BA degree in human service field. Three years’ experience working directly with a diverse youth population, preferably within a job development or on-the-job training program preferred. Knowledge of construction industry and major private and public employers in the area is a plus.

DEFINITION: The Employment Specialist will be part of an innovative team of service providers and educational experts that will work collectively to create/implement an innovative program for young people in St. Joseph that face the greatest barriers to finding employment. The Employment Specialist will network in the private and public sector to develop career-building opportunities for youth. The Employment Specialist will also work to prepare youth participants for the workforce, use mentor matching services, and follow-up to ensure their successful placement in post program employment or education.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

· Develop and maintain partnerships in the public and private sectors that will provide career opportunities that are aligned with students’ interests and goals.

· Interview students relative to career goals and post program interests.

· Plan and organize job search skills workshops including interviewing, resume preparation, and other skills.

· Ensure participants are prepared before going to job interviews, and conduct follow-up assessments.

· Connect participants with viable job opportunities.

· Work closely with employers to maximize student employment retention and success.

· Provide evaluation, conciliation, and mediation between employer and employee post job placement.

· Develop and implement job readiness classes and other courses in career development.

· Facilitate the completion of the job readiness portfolio with participants.

· Participate and coordinate outreach activities that include making presentations to non-profit organizations, government agencies, probation/parole staff, schools, and community events.

· Document and complete data entry in a variety of data systems that track program implementation.

· Meet with youth on an individual basis to monitor progress in each program component.

· Conduct outreach and recruitment of mentors and community business partners.

· Oversee matching youth and mentors.

· Provide mentor training to qualified individuals.

· Support youth with positive employment placements with the on-the-job mentor.

· Build relationships with community-based organizations and government agencies to promote collaboration, solve problems, and identify resources for youth, including education and training programs, internships, and other post-program opportunities.

· Follow program procedures with regard to recordkeeping, documentation, confidentiality, and case files.

· Meet weekly with other youth employment staff to plan activities, strategize on service delivery, and other activities as needed to further program goals.

· Assist with fulfilling grant and contract requirements for the program.

· Participate in program evaluation process.

· Other duties as assigned.

SKILLS & ABILITIES:

• Ability to provide positive, outstanding customer service.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to interact positively with a variety of personalities and socio-economic populations.
• Ability to facilitate educational workshops in the classroom.
• Ability to work in a team environment and provide support to fellow team members.
• Knowledge and thorough understanding of the job search process, Missouri job market, apprenticeship system, Child Labor Laws, and other related items.
• Problem-solving skills, organizational skills, time management skills, and excellent oral and written communications skills are essential.
• Proficiency in a variety of computer software applications are required including Microsoft Office Suite, email and internet applications.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Travel is required. Individual must possess a valid driver’s license with chauffeur’s classification and access to a reliable, insured motor vehicle.
• Overtime may be required.
• Individual must pass a background check prior to an offer of employment.

Youth Alliance is an equal opportunity employer and provider of employment training services. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. Missouri TTY users can dial 711.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $18.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Monday to Friday

Education:

• Bachelor's (Required)

Work Location: In person