Youth Specialist

Goodwill Industries of Northern Illinois is seeking to hire a Youth Specialist for the Freeport office. The Youth Specialist will work with program participants ages 16 - 24 as they enroll in the Youth Elevate Program and facilitate access to WIOA Youth Services, including case management, individual planning, support, work based learning, and access to services on an on-going basis.  The Specialist will support participants, ensure success with employment and education outcomes, provide follow-up, documentation, reporting and assist with assigned services, records, reports and program development.  They will work collaboratively with program and community partners.

Responsibilities & Essential Functions:

• Work with participants utilizing a strengths-based approach to provide information for informed decisions and completion of individualized service strategies
• Counsel, encourage and motivate participants and provide case management on an on-going basis
• Utilize and discuss assessment and interview results with young adults to collaboratively determine the support and services needed for participant success
• Coordinate eligibility, secure required documentation, maintain participant file, and conduct file reviews
• Become familiar with WIOA Youth policies, procedures, and guidelines in planning and implementing services and ensure compliance with all guidelines
• Make appropriate resource referrals for both WIOA and non-WIOA services, provide follow-up services and track outcomes
• Assess program participant strengths and needs and provide guidance and assistance with training and employment goals
• Work with businesses to identify work based learning opportunities for young adults
• Create and implement work based learning contracts and monitor regularly
• Keep informed of local employment needs and opportunities
• Maintain confidentiality and protect customers’ personal Identifying Information (PII) as required by law
• Find innovative solutions to customer and partner challenges and exhibit patience and compassion in dealing with issues
• Maintain participant files in compliance with program requirements and guidelines
• Show tolerance and flexibility in working with youth with barriers

Qualifications & Basic Job Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree preferred
• 3-5 years of workforce development experience
• Demonstrated ability to work with individuals with barriers to employment and understand and communicate with diverse groups
• The ability to motivate and assist young adults
• Strong verbal and written communication skills and high attention to detail
• High customer service focus
• Functional use of Microsoft applications such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook
• Bilingual with Spanish language highly desired
• Must have reliable vehicle, valid driver’s license, and proof of auto insurance and be insurable

Compensation: $22-24/hour

 Key Benefits We Offer

• Health & Wellness: Medical, dental, vision insurance, basic and voluntary life insurance as well as short-term disability and employee assistance program.
• Financial Security: Competitive salary, retirement plans with employer discretionary match, and bonus opportunity.
• Work-Life Balance: Paid time off, and flexible schedule.
• Professional Growth: Training programs, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement opportunities.
• Perks & Extras: Employee discounts, and a supportive, inclusive workplace.

At Goodwill, diversity, equity, and inclusion is who we are and it’s at the core of what we do.  That is why we are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace and we are excited that you are interested in working with us.  We encourage you to apply for any position that you feel best aligns with your background and experiences.  Regardless of ability, background, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, and faith, we commit to providing each applicant a hiring experience that allows you to bring your authentic self to the table.

If you need an alternative method to applying for this position, please contact Goodwill's Human Resource Department at DEI@goodwillni.org.

Salary : $22 - $24