Job Title:  Workforce Development Specialist (WDS)

Reports to:  Supervisor

Supervises:  None

FLSA Classification:  Non-Exempt

JOB SUMMARY:  Responsible for facilitating a learning environment for participants that addresses individual career research and planning, career competency development training and nationally recognized vocational certification. Also provides participant workforce readiness services related to their Individualized Success Plan (ISP), to address the youth’s barriers as well as short, intermediate and long-term educational and employment goals. 

Essential Duties and Functions

• Participates in recruitment efforts to ensure youth are afforded an opportunity to take part in OPP Programing.

• Establishes rapport, reviews program model, and builds trust with each referred youth. 

• Establishes specific measurable youth driven short-term, intermediate and long-term career goals on the ISP.  

• Facilitates “career competency development” training to help youth develop, maintain or improve their workforce readiness skills.

• Assist participants with basic computer applications i.e. resume building, online job search and application completion.

• Build youth’s web-based research skills around career and educational interest areas.

• Develop and maintain relationships with employers by garnering job placement opportunities (i.e. establishing work and learn job sites for year-round, and especially summer employment), and providing follow up support as needed.

• Provides participants with job placement assistance and retention.

• Demonstrates team behavior and promotes a team-oriented environment.

• Works with youth to Identify potential risk factors (in program environment) and takes measures to reduce those risks

• Facilitates and Utilizes TEB Skills, (Thoughts, Emotions & Behaviors), with youth by promoting responsible work habits and instilling critical thinking in decision-making 

• Participates in agency-wide training on fund development and role as an OPP ambassador.

• Manage youth payroll (maintains time sheets with accurate and timely information)

• Travel Required

• Handles any appropriate responsibilities and functions as assigned by supervisor

• Attendance Required

• Bachelor’s degree in human services, (i.e. Social Work, public health, or related field).
• Two-three years of experience working in case management environment with a particular focus on youth and/or young adults ages 14-24.
• Ability to Communicate and Develop Positive Relationships with youth

• Strong Interpersonal Skills to support and mentor youth effectively
• Demonstrates the attributes and qualities of a positive role model
• Displays exceptional customer service skills
• Understands career development principles
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Valid CT driver’s license and reliable transportation and/or own vehicle