Career Counselor

Job Summary

The Career Counselor will specialize in guiding youth aged 18-25 years, providing targeted career support and guidance. Responsibilities include assisting with resume writing, interview preparation, and tailored career planning. The counselor will develop, and conduct workshops focused on career development for this age group and establish networks with employers to facilitate job placement. Essential qualifications include experience in youth career counseling, a deep understanding of job market trends, and the capacity to handle sensitive information. Proficiency in data management and strong communication skills are also crucial for this role.

Essential Functions

• Individual Career Guidance: Provide one-on-one counseling to youth aged 18-25, focusing on career planning, resume writing, and interview preparation.
• Workshop Development and Facilitation: Create and conduct career development workshops tailored to the needs and interests of young adults.
• Employer Network Building: Establish and maintain connections with potential employers to facilitate job placements for program participants.
• Participant Progress Monitoring: Regularly track and assess the progress of participants, ensuring their career goals align with program objectives.
• Confidentiality Maintenance: Handle all participant information with the utmost confidentiality, adhering to legal and ethical standards.
• Data Management and Reporting: Proficiently manage participant data, prepare reports, and contribute to the overall evaluation of the career counseling program.

• Professional Development: Attend staff meetings, program-related conferences, and training sessions. Participate in special projects and cooperate with supervisory directives. Adapt to role changes as defined by M.E.N.T.O.R.S., Inc.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in counseling, Psychology, Social Work, or a related field.
• At least two years of experience in career counseling, preferably with a focus on youth aged 18-25.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills. Proficiency in data management and report generation.
• Up-to-date knowledge of job market trends, career development practices, and educational resources relevant to young adults.
• Any relevant certifications in career counseling or guidance are beneficial.
• Ability to relate to and engage with young adults, maintaining a balance of empathy and professionalism.

• Ability to lift to at least 30 pounds.

Skills, Knowledge & Abilities

• Strong communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills.
• Proficiency in data management, reporting, and computer literacy (MS Office, database software).
• Knowledge of career development theories, job market trends, and educational resources for young adults.
• Ability to develop engaging workshops and counseling sessions, maintain confidentiality, and provide tailored career advice.
• Ability to drive and maintain a valid Class C California Driver's License.
• Current CPR Certificate.
• Willing and able to maintain confidential information in accordance with MENTORS INC and industry standards.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS, ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS, EQUIPMENT 

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions. Employees may be in contact with individuals and families in crisis who may be ill, using substances, and/or not be attentive to personal health and safety for themselves. The employee may experience several unpleasant sensory demands associated with a client’s use of alcohol and drugs, and the lack of personal care. 

The employee must be ready to respond quickly and effectively to many types of situations, including crisis situations and potentially hostile situations. Employee is required to: Walk and climb stairs; Handle, finger, grasp, and feel objects and equipment; Reach with hands and arms; Communicate, receive, and exchange ideas and information by means of the spoken and written word; Be mobile by moving oneself from place to place quickly and easily; Repeat various motions with the wrists, hands, and fingers; Be able to have visual activity for (including, but not limited to) administrative and clerical tasks; Drive personal vehicle in and around Los Angeles County and periodically transport clients; Be able to enter various buildings that may require climbing stairs; Be subjected to outside environmental conditions.