Sector Focus Specialist

Description

The Center of Excellence Sector Focus Specialist is responsible for developing and implementing sector-focused workforce development initiatives to meet the labor needs of high-demand industries. This role requires deep knowledge of sector-specific trends, skills gaps, and employer needs, allowing the Specialist to align workforce services with local labor market demands. Through strategic partnerships and targeted training programs, the Sector Focus Specialist supports sustainable job placement and career advancement for job seekers, enhancing the impact of WIOA-funded services.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Workforce Development, Business, Public Administration, or a related field (preferred).
• 3 years of experience in workforce development, economic development, industry engagement, or related fields.
• Knowledge of WIOA guidelines, local labor market trends, and sector-specific workforce requirements.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and labor market information.
• Experience in building partnerships with employers, educational institutions, and community organizations.
• Excellent relationship-building and communication skills.
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in data analysis and reporting tools.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders and work independently.
• Complete CWDP course and exam within 3 months of employment and secure CWDP certification within 12 months of employment.
• Work flexible hours, including early morning, evenings, and weekends is required.
• Travel to various locations, such as businesses, worksites, off-site meetings, and other related events.
  
  

Key Responsibilities

• Sector Strategy Development:
• Conduct labor market analysis to identify in-demand sectors and skill gaps within the local workforce.
• Develop and implement workforce strategies tailored to meet the specific needs of targeted industry sectors.
• Collaborate with WIOA program leadership to ensure sector-focused strategies align with organizational goals and compliance standards.
• Partnership Building with Employers and Industry Stakeholders:
• Build relationships with employers, industry associations, and other stakeholders to identify workforce needs and develop sector-specific solutions.
• Serve as the primary liaison between employers and the Center of Excellence, facilitating job placements, apprenticeships, and internships for program participants.
• Promote WIOA services to employers, showcasing the benefits of hiring from the program’s talent pipeline.
• Program Development and Coordination:
• Collaborate with training providers and educational institutions to create tailored training programs and career pathways in high-demand sectors.
• Design and coordinate work-based learning opportunities, such as apprenticeships and internships, for job seekers entering targeted industries.
• Monitor the effectiveness of sector-focused programs, making adjustments to improve participant outcomes and employer satisfaction.
• Participant Support and Career Pathway Development:
• Work with WIOA Case Managers and career counselors to guide job seekers through sector-specific career pathways.
• Support participants in developing the skills and qualifications required for success in their chosen industry.
• Provide career counseling, resume building, and interview preparation specific to targeted industries.
• Data Collection, Analysis, and Reporting:
• Track and analyze program data related to sector-focused initiatives, including job placements, retention rates, and participant outcomes.
• Prepare reports and presentations for stakeholders, illustrating program impact, outcomes, and areas for improvement.
• Ensure program compliance with WIOA regulations and maintain accurate records to support continuous improvement.
• Community Outreach and Advocacy:
• Conduct outreach efforts to promote sector-focused programs to the community, job seekers, and partner organizations.
• Advocate for the workforce needs of specific sectors within local workforce boards, chambers of commerce, and community forums.
• Represent the Center of Excellence at industry events, job fairs, and community meetings to enhance program visibility and engagement.
  
  

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORKING CONDITIONS

While performing the essential functions of this job, the incumbent must be able to do the following: stand for extended periods; sit for extended periods; bend and reach for filing and other job-related functions; climb up and down stairs; bend, stoop, and lift to move and retrieve materials; pull, push, and lift; reach both above and below shoulder height. Specific visual abilities include close vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. Must be able to inspect work visually. Manual dexterity is required to operate computers and other office equipment.

The physical demands described above represent those that an employee must meet to perform the essential functions of this job successfully. Reasonable accommodation may be made.

About Jvs Socal

Founded in 1931, JVS-SoCal is a nonprofit, non-sectarian social service agency providing job training, education, career services, mentoring, and placement assistance to diverse and multicultural populations, transforming lives and empowering individuals to achieve sustainable employment and financial independence. JVS SoCal currently serves over 30,000 clients annually at over 20 locations throughout Southern California. As JVS SoCal continues to grow, we continue to look for qualified, dedicated staff to join us and play a role in transforming lives and bettering our communities throughout SoCal and beyond!