Career Development Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The organization is focused on promoting economic self-sufficiency for refugees and immigrants facing barriers to achieving their career goals. It operates through a structured Career Development Program that connects these individuals with training and resources to help them transition from low-wage jobs to sustainable career paths. The organization is represented by the OPEIU union and adheres to the terms and conditions of a collective bargaining agreement. It is committed to providing comprehensive support to its clients, ensuring they have access to the necessary tools and resources to succeed in their career endeavors.

Job Overview:
The Career Development Specialist plays a crucial role in the Career Development Program, which is designed to assist refugees and immigrants in overcoming barriers to employment and achieving economic self-sufficiency. This position involves working closely with clients to assess their eligibility and readiness for the program, creating tailored career development plans, scheduling various career development activities, and preparing job applications to facilitate successful job placements. Given that many program participants face significant challenges, the specialist must provide supportive services that are adaptable to the dynamic needs of the clients. This role requires a high degree of flexibility, patience, and determination to effectively assist clients in navigating their career paths.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Career Development Specialist include conducting pre-enrollment assessments with potential participants to evaluate their needs and readiness for the program. The specialist will build comprehensive career development plans that outline strategic directions and realistic activities tailored to each client. One-on-one assistance will be provided to help clients prepare their resumes, search for suitable job opportunities, and practice interview skills. The specialist will also offer mentorship in resume writing, interview preparation, and job search techniques, ensuring clients are well-equipped for career advancement. Group coaching sessions will be delivered to enhance work readiness and employability skills. Additionally, the specialist will support clients in identifying, enrolling in, and completing vocational training activities, including certification programs, apprenticeships, and both paid and unpaid work experiences. The role involves accompanying clients to job preparation activities, interviews, and job site tours, while also coaching them to attend these events independently in the future. Collaboration with team members and departments is essential to provide comprehensive, strength-based services to clients. The specialist will advocate for clients' rights in the labor market by providing references and engaging with employers to highlight the benefits of hiring refugees, asylees, and immigrants. Program administration tasks include assisting in the creation of informational packets and marketing materials, as well as ensuring compliance with reporting requirements. Community outreach efforts will involve conducting outreach to eligible clients and developing relationships with employers who can offer suitable job opportunities, particularly focusing on apprenticeship options. The specialist will also assist clients and employers with post-placement issues and ongoing career development needs, along with performing other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an undergraduate degree or relevant work experience, with a strong interest in social services, employment, workforce programming, client counseling, or a related field. At least one year of experience in a similar role is preferred. The ability to work effectively with adult learners from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds, as well as varying levels of English proficiency, is essential. Experience working with refugee and immigrant populations and an understanding of local communities are highly desirable. Knowledge of workplace safety practices and a willingness to learn industry-specific practices are also required. Candidates should demonstrate creativity and strategic thinking to overcome barriers faced by clients. Excellent verbal and interpersonal communication skills are necessary, along with strong organizational abilities, attention to detail, and flexibility. The ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment while maintaining composure under pressure is crucial. Proficiency in MS Office applications and experience with databases are required, and candidates must be willing to work some evenings and/or weekends regularly.

Educational Background:
The position requires an undergraduate degree or equivalent relevant work experience. This educational background should ideally be in fields related to social services, employment, workforce programming, or client counseling, which will provide the foundational knowledge necessary for effectively supporting clients in their career development.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least one year of experience in a role related to social services, employment, or workforce programming. Experience working with refugee and immigrant populations is highly valued, as it provides insight into the unique challenges these individuals face in the job market. Familiarity with local refugee and immigrant communities will enhance the specialist's ability to connect with clients and understand their specific needs.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both spoken and written, is mandatory for this position. Additionally, multilingual abilities are preferred, particularly in languages such as Spanish, French, Arabic, Dari, Farsi, and/or Pashto. This linguistic diversity will enable the specialist to communicate effectively with a broader range of clients and enhance the support provided to them.

Additional Notes:
The working environment for this position includes a combination of standard office settings, remote work, and field time within the service delivery area. The role may require occasional weekend and/or evening work to accommodate client needs. The compensation for this position ranges from $21 to $24 per hour, with variations based on factors such as the labor market, job type, internal equity, and budget considerations. The organization offers a comprehensive benefits package, including 10 sick days, 10 US holidays, and 20-25 paid time off days depending on the role and tenure. Medical insurance starts at $143 per month, dental insurance at $6.50 per month, and vision insurance at $5 per month. Additional benefits include a flexible spending account for healthcare and commuter costs, a 403b retirement savings plan with immediate vesting and matching, disability and life insurance, and an Employee Assistance Program available to staff and their families for counseling and mental health support.