Workforce Development & Employer Partnerships Specialist

Columbus House, Inc; New Haven (CT); On-site; USD 43,000 - 47,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision benefits

401 K retirement plan with employer‑m​

Paid time off

10 paid holidays

Job summary

Columbus House, Inc. in New Haven, CT is seeking a Workforce Initiatives Specialist to design and implement workforce development programs for individuals experiencing homelessness.

You will coordinate training, build employer partnerships, and lead social enterprise initiatives to provide meaningful work opportunities. Under the Employment and Benefits Manager, you will collaborate with community partners, recruit participants, and organize job readiness activities while advocating for

Qualifications

• Organizational and time management skills with a deadline orientation.
• Strong written and oral English communication.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office and common desktop apps.
• Knowledge of substance abuse, mental health, and social services networks.
• Familiar with criminal justice barriers and ability to engage clients.
• Good driving record and valid driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Design, coordinate, and facilitate workforce development programs.
• Build partnerships with local employers for opportunities, internships, and hiring initiatives.
• Coordinate hiring events, career fairs, employer presentations, and workforce workshops.
• Recruit, assess, and support participants through individualized employment and career planning.
• Serve as the primary liaison between employers and participants for job placements and retention.
• Develop social enterprise initiatives that create employment opportunities and generate revenue.
• Collaborate with community organizations, educational institutions, and workforce agencies.
• Stay informed on workforce trends and labor market needs.
• Participate in community coalitions and represent the organization at meetings.
• Advocate for equitable hiring practices.

Skills

Organization

Time management

Communication

Microsoft Office

Substance abuse

Mental health

Social services

Criminal justice

Crisis intervention

Motivational interviewing

Client engagement

Driving license

Tools

None

Job description

Columbus House, Inc. in New Haven, CT is seeking a Workforce Initiatives Specialist to design and implement workforce development programs for individuals experiencing homelessness.

You will coordinate training, build employer partnerships, and lead social enterprise initiatives to provide meaningful work opportunities. Under the Employment and Benefits Manager, you will collaborate with community partners, recruit participants, and organize job readiness activities while advocating for