Trades Employment Specialist

Centre for Skills Development; Burlington; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A recognized leader in career and workforce development is seeking an Employment Specialist to support students in pre-apprenticeship skilled trades programs. The role involves providing individualized employment services, facilitating workshops, and guiding students through job placements. Candidates should have experience in employment counseling and knowledge of job search techniques, especially in skilled trades. This full-time position offers a competitive salary and benefits with opportunities for professional development.

Benefits

Competitive compensation package

Flexible work arrangements

Support for ongoing training

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years’ experience in employment counseling or related fields.
• Experience with diverse adult populations, including newcomers.
• Strong knowledge of job search techniques, especially in skilled trades.

Responsibilities

• Provide individualized and group-based employment services.
• Conduct assessments and facilitate workshops on employability topics.
• Support students post-graduation with job search processes.

Skills

Employment counseling

Case management

Communication skills

Customer service

Professional teamwork

Education

Diploma or degree in a related field

Tools

MS Office 365

Career-related software

Job description

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Embark on a Bright Future with Centre for Skills Development

Are you entrepreneurial, client-focused, and committed to teamwork and excellence? Do you enjoy working with clients from diverse backgrounds? If you want to work for a recognized leader in career and workforce development, then consider a career with Centre for Skills Development!

Headquartered in Burlington, Ontario, with locations in Oakville, Milton, and Clarkson, Centre for Skills delivers high-caliber employment services, language training & settlement services, skilled trades training, and literacy upgrading. Providing people with opportunities to build a better future and making a positive impact on people's lives is integral to our mission. For more information, visit: centreforskills.ca

The Opportunity

Job Number : 463

Department : Skilled Trades

Location : Burlington On-site

Schedule : Monday to Friday, 8:00 am – 4:00 pm

Hours of Work : Permanent Full-time (35 hours per week)

Reports To : Skilled Trades Coordinator

Start Date : July 2025

Salary : $60,569 per annum

The Employment Specialist supports students enrolled in pre-apprenticeship skilled trades programs by providing individualized and group-based employment services, including resume development, job search strategies, interview preparation, and career coaching. They guide students from intake through to job placement, playing a key role in their transition to employment and acting as a liaison between training and workforce entry. The Employment Specialist collaborates closely with instructors and program staff to ensure services align with student needs and industry expectations.

Responsibilities include:

• Conduct assessments (common assessment) and other intake forms with skilled trades students beginning their programs.
• Facilitate trades-related workshops and presentations on employability topics such as Employer Expectations, Resume Writing, Interview Skills, Job Searching, Apprenticeship Process, and Career Planning.
• Assist students in preparing for their job search, including resume writing, interview skills, and employability skills.
• Support students post-graduation as they continue job searching and their first year of employment.
• Engage with students during the program to identify goals and develop individualized job search strategies.
• Provide employability and soft skills coaching to enhance their employability and assist in securing employment and apprenticeships.
• Work with Mental Health Specialists and instructors to complete ESAT profiles and update student progress.
• Administer and implement EO-Employment Services components for registered participants.
• Collaborate with team members to identify work placement and employment opportunities, including accompanying students to employer visits.
• Complete accurate and timely reporting, meet funder targets, and ensure program efficiency.
• Participate in community outreach to promote services, referrals, and partnerships.
• Conduct follow-up with students post-program as required.
• Assist with recruitment activities as needed.
• Respond to inquiries about trades careers and apprenticeship options, referring to other programs when appropriate.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements:

• Diploma or degree in a related field; equivalent experience may be considered.
• Minimum 3 years’ experience in employment counseling, case management, mental health counseling, addictions, or crisis intervention.
• Experience working with diverse adult populations, including newcomers and multi-barriered clients; EO experience preferred.
• Supporting individuals in employment or apprenticeship in skilled trades is a strong asset.
• Knowledge of Motivational Interviewing, Solution-focused Counseling, and assessment tools.
• Ability to work in a target-driven, outcome-based environment.
• Strong knowledge of job search techniques and career development, especially in skilled trades.
• Professional teamwork approach, positive attitude, excellent customer service skills.
• Ability to de-escalate situations.
• Knowledge of case management resources and access to services.
• Excellent assessment, crisis intervention, and advocacy skills.
• Strong communication skills, attention to detail, ability to meet deadlines.
• Proficiency in MS Office 365, social media, and career-related software.

How to apply:

We offer a competitive compensation package, benefits, flexible work arrangements, and support for ongoing training. To apply, email your resume and cover letter to: [e-mail]

We thank all applicants; only those selected for an interview will be contacted. For accommodations during the recruitment process, contact [e-mail].

Additional Information:

Seniority level: Mid-Senior level

Employment type: Full-time

Job function: Management and Manufacturing

Industry: Non-profit Organizations