Workforce Development Specialist

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Workforce Development Specialist supports clients experiencing barriers to employment by connecting them to career pathways, education, training, and support services. This position supports clients in building workforce readiness skills, access job training and certification opportunities, and achieve long-term employment stability.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Connect clients with career exploration, job readiness, education, and employment services.
• Assist participants with workforce development activities, including the Alaska Career Interest Profiler, FAFSA, scholarship applications, and enrollment in training programs.
• Support clients in obtaining documentation needed for employment and educational opportunities.
• Provide peer support, encouragement, and coaching throughout participation in the program.
• Coordinate referrals to internal and external job training and certification programs.
• Monitor participant progress and support successful completion of training and employment goals.
• Complete SNAP Employment & Training reporting and maintain grant compliance requirements.
• Track client outcomes and activities for program evaluation and grant reporting.
• Assist in developing partnerships with training providers, technical schools, and certification programs.

SKILLS & COMPETENCIES:

• Strong relationship-building and client engagement skills.
• Knowledge of workforce development, career planning, and employment readiness.
• Ability to provide coaching, peer support, and goal-focused case management.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Experience with data tracking, documentation, and grant reporting.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to connect clients with community resources, education, and training opportunities.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and client record systems

QUALIFICATIONS:

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Two (2) years of experience in workforce development, case management, human services, education, or a related field.
• Experience working with youth and young adults facing barriers to employment, education, or housing.
• Strong communication, organizational, and recordkeeping skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and data entry systems.
• Ability to pass required background checks.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Social Work, Education, Workforce Development, or a related field.
• Current First aid/CPR Certification
• Certified Peer Support certification or willingness to obtain certification.
• Experience with SNAP Employment & Training programs, grant-funded services, or program reporting.
• Knowledge of workforce development resources, career pathways, and post-secondary education opportunities.
• Experience assisting clients with FAFSA, scholarships, training enrollment, or employment services.
• Established relationships with local employers, training providers, or community partners.
• Experience working in a youth-serving nonprofit organization.

PHYSICAL, SENSORY, ENVIRONMENTAL QUALIFICATIONS:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. 

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to remain sedentary for prolonged periods of time at a workstation, may involve walking and standing for brief periods of time. Occasionally will exert up to 20 lbs. of force to move objects and files. Must be able to work under pressure to meet deadlines within assigned timeframe.  Must be able to work occasional evenings and weekends. 

Work is performed in an office setting. 

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT:

MY House provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. MY House complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which the organization has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training. Persons alleging unequal treatment should contact the Human Resources Department.

The undersigned have read this job description and agree that it defines the position as it currently exists.  The undersigned also understands that the above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for this job.  It is not to be considered as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities, or requirements and does not limit the assignment of additional duties at the discretion of the supervisor.