Career Specialist - HousingPlus, Inc.

The Career Specialist will focus on supporting HousingPlus tenants who often make minimum wage, are underemployed, and may not receive job benefits. The Specialist will conduct comprehensive educational and vocational assessments to help tenants pursue job promotions, expand their employment potential, and access new opportunities. Additionally, the Specialist will maintain updated labor market information, including recent employment trend data, and develop and sustain relationships with employers to create job opportunities for HousingPlus tenants. The Specialist will guide tenants in accessing available unearned income sources, such as government benefits, grants, and other financial assistance programs, and assist in the application process for various benefits, ensuring tenants understand the eligibility requirements and compliance. This role will also serve as a liaison between job placement training programs and potential employers.

Responsibilities:

• Engage with adults and youth to establish trusting, collaborative relationships aimed at achieving competitive employment or academic/vocational education goals.
• Conduct individual assessments and career plans to ensure tenants' readiness for employment updating plans annually or as needed.
• Conduct job development and search activities tailored to the interests and uniqueness of each tenant.
• Provide individualized follow-along support to assist tenants in maintaining employment, including retraining/advanced training and career pathway navigation.
• Design and provide training and education workshops for tenants in areas such as job readiness, mock interviews, resume development, and business etiquette to address barriers prior to interviews and employment.
• Provide motivational counseling, guidance, technical assistance, referrals, and support to youth as they pursue educational and employment goals.
• Identify, develop, and maintain relationships with local employers to create a bank of job opportunities.
• Maintain placement and retention data for statistical reporting.
• Work collaboratively with case managers and job developers as part of a team.
• Assist tenants in identifying and securing job opportunities that align with their skills and career goals.
• Provide training and resources to enhance employability, including resume writing, interview preparation, and job search strategies.
• Facilitate connections with potential employers and networking opportunities.
• Guide tenants in accessing available unearned income sources, such as government benefits, grants, and other financial assistance programs.
• Assist in the application process for various benefits and ensure tenants understand the eligibility requirements and compliance.

Requirements

• Three to five years of experience as a Career Counselor/Job Developer/Employment Specialist in a social service or non-profit organization, or experience in recruitment/employment services within the private sector.
• Excellent organizational and project management skills.
• Ability to interact effectively and professionally with tenants, staff, and outside agencies.
• Ability to work independently and take initiative when appropriate.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Excel, and other software programs.
• Familiarity with social services and sensitivity to the homeless population.
• Bachelors Degree in social services, business, human resources, or a related field.

Benefits

Salary: $50,000

• Medical, Dental, Vision, Commuter Benefits
• Supplemental Insurance at your discretion
• Access to discounted entertainment benefits