Career Development Specialist

The Career Development Specialist (Part-Time) – Pre ETS and Vocational Rehabilitation is responsible for delivering employment transition or workplace preparation services to students and job seekers with disabilities in collaboration with schools, vocational rehabilitation agencies, and community partners. This role focuses on preparing participants for post-secondary education, training, and competitive integrated employment by providing instruction and support in job exploration and career interest, workplace readiness, self-advocacy, counseling, and work-based learning experiences per the mission of Goodwill Industries of Middle Georgia and the CSRA. 

Essential Functions:

• Provide case management and related services to participants in support of the program’s financial, mission, training, continuous quality improvement and marketing goals.
• Assist Contract Project Manager with administration / contract management.
• Assist in recruitment of eligible participants qualified for funding to ensure financial sustainability of programs.
• Ensure that highest quality, individualized services are delivered to program participants with a focus on the mission of Goodwill Industries of Middle Georgia and the CSRA.
• Interview participants concerning work history, education, vocational interests and goals, social, economic, and medical background as well as other related factors.
• Conducts orientation for new participants in regards to program services, policies and procedures.
• Maintain regular contact with referring counselor/agency.
• Provide individualized vocational counseling and guidance; teach life skills, work adjustment, transportation training, employment skills or other related curricula to participants on caseload.
• Maintain all documentation and records of program participants.
• Prepare reports and summaries required for applicable funding and regulatory sources.
• Ensure smooth transition of cases across services and programs as necessary.
• Observe and meet with participants on the job in community-based work sites.
• Coordinate supervision of all participants to ensure program quality and consistency.
• Support and advocate for the program participant and their right to a higher quality of life through work within the parameters of the program.
• Ensure protection and confidentiality of participant’s rights.
• Ensure ongoing supportive counseling and crisis intervention as needed by coordinating referral to and utilization of community resources.
• Maintain all documentation and records of program operations.  Separate, open, review and maintain participant case files and documents according to Workforce Development policies and procedures.
• Prepare individual development plan (IDP) and engage in quarterly updates in achieving goals.
• Comply with Agency, WFD, CARF, federal and grant regulations, policies, standard operating procedures (SOPs) and the Agency’s safety and security policies and procedures.
• Participate or lead program advisory council, community advisory boards and/or associations related to trade as assigned.
• Maintain quality relationships  with community partners
• Participate in community and Goodwill meetings as needed or as assigned.
• Other duties as assigned.

Working Environment Conditions/Requirements:

• The ability to push, pull and lift 20lbs. with or without accommodations.
• Must be able to safely operate a vehicle and have a valid driver’s license.
• Must be able to meet all physical requirements to perform all duties relating to Career Services including driving, material handling, transporting and carrying documents, handbooks and various supplies.

Job Requirements and Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Education, Rehabilitation Counseling, Special Education, Human Services, or related field (Master’s degree preferred). 

• Minimum of one (1) year experience working with individuals with disabilities or in workforce development, career counseling, or special education. 

• Knowledge of transition services, vocational rehabilitation programs, and disability awareness. 

• Strong instructional, facilitation, and interpersonal skills. 

• Ability to travel locally for school and community-based instruction. 

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and data tracking systems.