Workforce Development Specialist

• Develop individualized career plans in collaboration with clients, setting realistic goals and outlining steps to achieve them. Monitor and evaluate progress regularly.

• Provide one-on-one counseling to help clients explore career options and set realistic employment goals.

• Assist clients in creating or updating resumes, writing cover letters, and preparing for job interviews.

• Teach effective job search strategies and provide resources for finding employment opportunities.

• Provides case management and refers participants to Goodwill & partner programs to obtain certifications, apprenticeships and in demand skills needed by employers.

• Conduct thorough & timely follow-up with active clients and referrals to ensure smooth transition into programs and continuity of services.

• Maintain accurate and detailed case notes of client interactions, supportive services, and incentives received.

• Collaborate with employers to connect participants to jobs, Goodwill programs & services, and other resources needed.

• Organize and participate in community events, meetings, and activities to promote Goodwill's presence and mission.

• Facilitate Career Readiness Workshops to support job seekers and enhance participants' readiness to enter or advance in the workforce by addressing various aspects of career preparation.

• Conduct outreach at Goodwill locations, on Mobile Workforce Unit, or at other community partner locations.

• Provide ongoing support and guidance for career advancement and retention.

• Collect feedback from customers through surveys, interviews, or other methods to make recommendations for improving programs and services.

• Maintains all client contact standards and accurately enters participant information in the case management database in a timely manner.
• Regularly updates Employment Services Manager on participant issues and concerns.

• Updates job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities; reading professional publications, maintaining personal networks, participating in professional organizations and enrolling in certification training.

• Collaborate on achieving monthly, quarterly and yearly metrics and departmental goals.

• Always maintain strict confidentiality of participant information.

• Completes tasks in compliance with all company policies, procedures and legal requirements.

• Complete special projects and assignments as needed.

• Attend staff meetings and other meetings as necessary.

• All other duties as assigned by the Workforce Development Manager.

The ideal candidate will have:

• Bachelor's degree in rehabilitation, psychology, communication, education, adult education, human resources, or related field. Some college or work-related experience will be considered.

• Excellent critical thinking and client service skills.
• Good oral and written communication skills, including interviewing skills.
• Must possess understanding of marginalization and how it impacts those that Goodwill serves and employs.
• Exhibit respect for diversity of thought and have experience to advance it in teams/organizations.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite, Windows OS, electronic data entry, internet search engines etc.
• Ability to counsel and handle crisis situations effectively.
• Working knowledge of the workforce, social services sectors and/or experience utilizing community resources.
• Strong background in developing and maintaining relationships between partner agencies.
• Basic understanding of legal requirements regarding employment (ADA, WOTC, etc.).
• Good time management skills with the ability to meet deadlines.
• Versatility and the ability to manage several projects simultaneously.
• Flexibility of work hours, schedule and willingness to cross-train.

• Effective management of processes and people; strong teamwork qualities.

• Effective, appropriate and professional communication and demeanor.

• Ability to recognize potential problems within processes and recommend appropriate solutions.
• Must have and maintain reliable transportation, clean MVR, valid license and insurance to drive for company-related business.