Employment Counselor

POSITION AVAILABLE: Employment Counselor

START DATE: ASAP

HOURS PER WEEK: 40

STARTING HOURLY WAGE: $18.00 – $22.00/hr. (commensurate with professional experience)

CONTACT PERSON: Armin Budimlic, Executive Director

APPLICATION PROCESS: Submit a résumé and a cover letter by mail, email, or in person before the deadline. (No phone calls.)

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Until filled

ORGANIZATIONAL MISSION: Intercultural Mutual Assistance Association (IMAA) is a community based, nonprofit organization with a mission to build bridges between cultures. IMAA builds bridges of self-sufficiency through its Family Services, bridges of communication through its Language Services, bridges of hope and safety through its Victim Services, bridges of health through Healthcare Access and Education, and bridges of cultural education and understanding through Community Engagement initiatives.

JOB OVERVIEW: IMAA is a dynamic and innovative organization dedicated to empowering individuals to achieve their career goals and find meaningful employment opportunities. We believe that every individual has the potential to excel in their chosen career path, and we are committed to providing the guidance and resources needed to make that happen. We are currently seeking a passionate and dedicated Employment Counselor to join our team.

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES

As an Employment Counselor at IMAA, you will play a crucial role in helping job seekers find and secure suitable employment opportunities. You will work closely with individuals from various backgrounds, providing career counseling, job search assistance, and skills development support. Your primary responsibilities will include:

• Conduct one-on-one career counseling sessions to assess job seekers' skills, interests, and goals.
• Develop personalized employment plans for each client, outlining clear steps to achieve their career objectives.
• Provide guidance on job search strategies, resume writing, interview preparation, and networking.
• Connect job seekers with relevant training programs, workshops, and resources to enhance their employability.
• Stay up-to-date on labor market trends, job openings, and industry-specific information to provide accurate and current advice.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with local employers, fostering partnerships to create job opportunities for clients.
• Assist clients in accessing government programs and resources related to employment and job training.
• Maintain accurate and confidential client records and documentation.
• Collaborate with other team members to share best practices and coordinate job placement efforts.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• High School diploma, G.E.D, or foreign education equivalent to a US Accredited High School Diploma and experience in a similar position as listed in the description of duties
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to build rapport with clients and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
• Empathetic and client-focused approach to counseling
• Knowledge of labor market trends and job search techniques
• Prior experience working with refugees, immigrants, or vulnerable populations is highly desirable
• Strong understanding of refugee issues, cultural sensitivity, and trauma informed care.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
• Flexibility to adapt to changing circumstances and respond to emergencies as needed
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and job search tools
• Must pass background checks and adhere to confidentiality guidelines
• Reliable transportation or access to dependable public transit is required

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Previous experience in career counseling, job placement, or related roles is a plus
• Professional certification in counseling or career development is a bonus
• Understanding of and passion for the work with refugees and immigrants
• Knowledge of local community resources
• Fluency in languages other than English is desirable but not mandatory
• Ability to walk a distance
• Ability to lift up to 20 lbs.

IMAA is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $18.00 - $22.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Paid time off

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Required)

Shift availability:

• Day Shift (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Rochester, MN 55901: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $18 - $22