Career & Employment Specialist
Job Type
Full-Time
Position Summary:
- The Employment & Career Specialist provides career planning guidance and employment search assistance to eligible populations who have an interest in pursuing education or employment in higher-skill trades that require specialized knowledge beyond a high school diploma. This is done through providing employment case management and support, educating career development tools and career pathways, making appropriate referrals, leveraging community connections, and participating in continuing professional development.
Job Duties:
- Work with clients to identify appropriate employment opportunities through utilizing
multiple job search tools including but not limited to NEWorks, CareerLink, Indeed,
staffing agencies with specific opportunities, or specific employers in targeted sectors. - Connect eligible populations to career pathways, digital resources, and professional networking resources while fostering economic opportunities.
- Maintain contact with clients while guiding in job search and networking.
- Provide services including but not limited to, case management, referrals, outreach,
and guidance about credential evaluation and state licensing processes. - Prepare reports and success stories for the program.
- Document all client interactions; create progress reports and note problems in accordance with the program requirements and guidelines.
- Maintain client records in compliance with policy and reimbursement standards.
- Assist client in developing their job search tools, including but not limited to resume review and revision appropriate for the local job market or targeted sector and creating a LinkedIn.
- Promote self-sufficiency through assisting clients in addressing any barriers to
employment including referrals to both internal and external partners as needed; can
include accompanying clients and providing transportation to and from services. - Assist client in navigating the enrollment process for other resources including but
not limited to employment and training services available with partners at American
Job Centers, Nebraska Department of Labor or through universities. - Identify and refer possible participants to career mentorship programs.
- Attend webinars or trainings that relate to developing the knowledge necessary to
improve in carrying out the duties of the position. - Attend staff meetings for supervision, team building, and program planning.
- Participate in regular supervision sessions to review cases, discuss employment
strategy, and monitor client progress. - Seek guidance in handling difficult client situations and establishing priorities for the job.
- Complete assessments and service plans for clients.
Required Skills/Abilities:
- Excellent verbal and written communication.
- Excellent attention to detail, organizational skills, and analytical skills.
- Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
- Ability to problem-solve independently and proactively address challenges or obstacles.
- Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate them when appropriate.
- Ability to act with integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality.
- Awareness and sensitivity of the organization’s constituents and populations served.
- Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
- Regular and predictable attendance, and promptness for work.
- Commitment to uphold the mission, vision, and values of Lutheran Family Services.
- Support our organization’s objective to be a diverse, equitable, inclusive, and accessible.
Position Competencies:
- Verbal Communication
- Written Communication
- Critical Thinking
- Organizational Skills
Education and Experience:
- High school diploma / GED required. Bachelor’s degree in Human Services related field preferred.
- Case management or employment services experience is required.
- Bilingual in English and another language preferred.
- Demonstrated understanding of and ability to work with people of diverse backgrounds.
- Valid driver’s license, liability auto insurance, and ability to drive personal vehicle.
Physical Requirements:
- Laptop and company-issued cell phone.
- Travel to various office locations to support client services, as needed.
- Work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends to meet client needs.
Lutheran Family Services is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of age, race, religion, color, ethnicity, disability, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.