Workforce Specialist

JOB TITLE : Workforce Specialist DEPARTMENT : Teen Program Services REPORTS TO : Director of Graduation and Workforce Readiness FLSA STATUS : Non-Exempt PRIMARY FUNCTION : The Workforce Specialist is responsible for building strong relationships with at-risk youth and teen club members, guiding them to develop essential skills for entering the workforce during and after high school. Working closely with the Director of Graduation & Workforce Readiness, the Workforce Specialist helps create an enriching environment that prepares teens for career, college, and community readiness. This role also focuses on identifying community-based employment opportunities and developing life skills, including decision-making, budgeting, and soft skills. ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES AND ACTIVITIES : Career and Employment : Case manage a minimum of 60 youth (grades 8–12) in successful Workforce Readiness programs, conducting regular accountability meetings to ensure goal completion. Work directly with younger teens (grades 5–7) to introduce workforce readiness concepts through age-appropriate content, such as career exploration, soft skills training, field trips, and research projects. Connect teens to workforce readiness programs within the club or community and assist them in overcoming barriers to success. Support teens in programs like Career Launch, Money Matters, In & Out Club Work Base, and This Way Onward. Help teens develop life skills such as budgeting, interview techniques, leadership, and entrepreneurship. Assist teens in securing education and employment opportunities within the community, including job placement support. Conduct all phases of employment services, including intake, assessment, job development, and follow-up support. Regularly meet with teens to assess job satisfaction and address any necessary adjustments, ensuring both teen and employer satisfaction. Share documentation of meetings with the Director of Graduation & Workforce Readiness. Collaborate with key stakeholders, including the VP of Club Operations, Director of Graduation & Workforce Readiness, and local community partners, to enhance program offerings. Other Responsibilities : Collaborate with the Director of Graduation & Workforce Readiness, Graduation Specialists, and other staff to facilitate overall program success. Maintain efficient record-keeping procedures and ensure clear communication with students, parents, volunteers, peers, employers, and the broader community. Contribute to the program environment by collaborating with the program team and modeling professional, ethical standards. Meet professional obligations by maintaining organized work habits and meeting deadlines. The Workforce Specialist is a mandated child abuse reporter. JOB SPECIFICATIONS : Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in an appropriate field of study. Proven experience working with at-risk youth, parents, and community leaders. Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills. Competency in Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook, and Publisher; familiarity with general office equipment (e.g., copier, fax, cash register). Ability to work independently with minimal supervision. Experience in leading programs and services for at-risk youth. Valid driver’s license and clean driving record. Proven ability to work with business and community leaders, HR professionals, and employment agencies. Experience planning, marketing, and implementing youth development programs. Ability to motivate, organize, and supervise at-risk youth in a safe environment. Commitment to promoting a lifestyle of health, wellness, and fitness. Mandatory CPR and First Aid Certification. RELATIONSHIPS : Collaborates with : Graduation Specialist, Teen Program Managers, Youth Program Managers, and Director of Graduation & Workforce Readiness to create a fluid, collaborative Workforce Readiness Program. Internal : Regular contact with teen staff, other club staff, volunteers, and club members. External : Assist with outreach and collaboration with external community groups, school officials, and other partners, as directed by the Director of Graduation & Workforce Readiness. POSITION REQUIREMENTS : Valid state driver’s license. Must pass a pre-employment background check and drug test. Experience working with children and a strong understanding of youth development. Strong organizational, time management, and communication skills. Positive work ethic, energy, and flexibility. Comfort in handling multi-faceted projects alongside day-to-day tasks. POSITION QUALIFICATIONS : High energy level and ability to manage multiple tasks. Strong leadership and community relations skills. Good vision and hearing necessary to perform tasks. Ability to stand or sit for extended periods and climb stairs. Ability to lift a minimum of 25 lbs. Ability to function in a fast-paced, noisy environment and think clearly under pressure. Powered by JazzHR