Overview
The Career Development Specialist provides comprehensive case management, career coaching, and workforce navigation services to opportunity youth ages 16-24 facing barriers to education and employment.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct outreach, eligibility screening, intake, and enrollment.
- Complete assessments and develop Individual Service Strategies (ISS).
- Provide ongoing career coaching, case management, and goal monitoring.
- Coordinate referrals and supportive services to address barriers to participation.
- Maintain regular contact with participants to promote engagement and successful outcomes.
- Deliver one-on-one and group instruction in work readiness, career exploration, job search, resume development, interviewing, and professional skills.
- Assist participants in identifying and securing employment, internships, apprenticeships, and other work-based learning opportunities.
- Provide post-placement coaching to support job retention and career advancement.
- Support enrollment and persistence in secondary school completion, postsecondary education, occupational training, and credential programs.
- Monitor participant progress and coordinate resources that promote educational success.
- Build partnerships with employers, training providers, schools, and community organizations to expand career opportunities for youth.
- Coordinate work-based learning experiences, hiring events, and employer engagement activities.
- Maintain accurate case files and document participant services, outcomes, and activities in required databases.
- Track performance metrics and ensure compliance with WIOA, funder, and IRC requirements.
- Participate in program planning, outreach, continuous quality improvement, and other duties as assigned.
Required Experience
Relevant professional experience in the field of human services required; minimum of 3 years’ experience strongly preferred. Experience working with refugee and/or immigrant populations required.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in social work or related field of study preferred.
