Employment Specialist Hybrid

Accountability:

Works with employers and the Business Service Team to establish meaningful relationships with area employers and serve the needs of employers and the workforce. The Employment Specialist develops opportunities for participants and employers to ensure The Workforce Connection and Climate Works Pre Apprenticeship programs are the recruitment tool of choice for employers in the region. All work is done in accordance with WIOA Federal, State, and local procedures and policies as well as the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act.

Responsibilities & Essential Functions:

Community & Participant Partnerships

• Establish relationships and maintain close contact with area employers for job development and placement opportunities.
• Establish relationships with local Building Trades Apprenticeship Programs for Pre Apprenticeship program graduates.
• Show flexibility and tolerance in dealing with persons from disadvantaged social, economic and educational backgrounds.

Communication

• Communicate with staff and partners to ensure employer and customer needs are met.
• Be responsive to the inquiries and needs of area employers as they relate to program services.

Position Expertise

• Assist with the planning, development, coordination, marketing, and evaluation of business services for The Workforce Connection and Climate Works Pre-Apprenticeship programs.
• Participate in planning/evaluation sessions with other program staff.
• Attend and participate in conferences and workshops as they relate to job duties.
• Stay current with community employment needs and related skills required needed for employment.
• Develop, coordinate and facilitate workshops for customers and employers.

Administrative

• Maintain employer/participant files and participant monthly contact.
• Coordinate, develop and assist with assigned services, records, reports and program development.
• Develop and maintain participant and employer databases measuring level of business activity.

Environment:

The work is conducted at The Workforce Connection Career Centers in Belvidere, Freeport, and Rockford, with frequent travel to employers in the community. The environment is typically climate-controlled, though temperature may vary slightly between locations. Noise levels are generally moderate, consistent with an office environment. The role involves a mix of desk work, meetings, and on-site visits. Hours are primarily daytime hours, but on occasion, can include evening and/or weekend hours to support programs, meetings, or community events. Reliable transportation and the ability to travel between sites are required.

Sensory and Physical Requirements:

Ability to efficiently and effectively perform all functions of the job. Ability to clearly communicate program details and information to both funders and the public.

Characteristic Functions:

• Excellent organizational skills and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to effectively communicate the benefits of The Workforce Connection and its programs to employers and deliver on promises.
• Ability to create innovative solutions for business and job seekers.

Principal Challenges:

• Working with individuals and creating solutions for employment outcomes.

Disclaimer:

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. The employee will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by the employee's supervisor. Requirements are representative of the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, and/or abilities to perform this job successfully. The incumbent will possess the abilities or aptitude to perform each duty proficiently. All requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate persons with disabilities. Goodwill may exclude individuals who represent a direct threat or significant risk to the health and safety of themselves or other employees.

Goodwill of Northern Illinois is an equal opportunity employer.

This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise. The employment relationship is at will.

Qualifications & Basic Job Requirements:

• A combination of education and relevant work experience that aligns with the duties of this position.
• Experience working with industry or employers preferred.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• High customer service focus.

• Functional use of Microsoft applications such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook. Salesforce preferred.
• Requires regular travel within Goodwill’s territory on a regular schedule. Driver’s license and proof of auto insurance required.