Workforce Development Specialist

Cincinnatigoodwill; Cincinnati (OH); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Ohio Valley Goodwill Industries is seeking a Workforce Development Specialist to analyze participant assessments, develop action plans, and provide ongoing support to help individuals achieve employment goals. You’ll work closely with participants to identify strengths and barriers, delivering tools and resources to succeed.

The role includes job search strategies, resume and interview prep, and ongoing follow-up while maintaining case records and ensuring program compliance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in social work, human services, or related field
• Strong understanding of employment barriers and challenges faced by disadvantaged populations
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Experience in case management and providing direct client services
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and database software
• Knowledge of labor market trends and industry-specific job requirements

Responsibilities

• Review and analyze participant assessment data, including skills, experiences, work history, and career aspirations.
• Identify gaps in skills, knowledge, or resources that may hinder employment success.
• Conduct one-on-one meetings with participants to discuss assessment results and set clear, achievable goals.
• Assist participants in developing SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals.
• Create individualized action plans outlining steps to achieve goals, including timelines and resources.
• Provide job search strategies, including resume writing, cover letter creation, and interview preparation.
• Assist with online job application processes and navigating job boards.
• Offer guidance on networking and building professional relationships.
• Conduct workshops on job readiness, soft skills, and industry-specific skills.
• Provide support with occupational licensing or certification requirements.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of participant interactions, goals, and progress.
• Schedule regular follow-up meetings to monitor progress and address any challenges.
• Offer ongoing support and encouragement throughout the job search process.
• Connect participants with community resources, such as housing assistance, transportation, or childcare.
• Collect and analyze data on participant outcomes and program effectiveness.
• Prepare regular reports for funders and other stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with program guidelines, regulations, and reporting requirements.

Skills

Employment barriers understanding

Interpersonal communication

Case management

Client services

Microsoft Office

Database software

Labor market knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree in social work, human services, or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Database software

Job description

About Ohio Valley Goodwill Industries

Ohio Valley Goodwill Industries is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing job training, employment placement, and support services for individuals with disabilities and other barriers to employment. With a focus on empowering individuals to achieve greater independence and inclusion in the community, Ohio Valley Goodwill has been serving the Greater Cincinnati area for over 100 years.

The Workforce Development Specialist plays a crucial role in assisting individuals in achieving their employment goals. This position involves analyzing participant assessments, developing personalized action plans, and providing ongoing support to help participants secure and maintain employment. The Specialist will work closely with participants to identify their strengths, weaknesses, and career aspirations, and provide the necessary tools and resources to succeed.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor's degree in social work, human services, or related field
• Strong understanding of employment barriers and challenges faced by disadvantaged populations
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Experience in case management and providing direct client services
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and database software
• Knowledge of labor market trends and industry-specific job requirements

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in workforce development or employment counseling
• Certification in career counseling or related field
• Knowledge of specific industry sectors or job markets

ESSENTIAL DUTIES: (INCLUDED PERCENT OF TIME ON TASKS)

• Review and analyze participant assessment data, including skills, experiences, work history, and career aspirations.
• Identify gaps in skills, knowledge, or resources that may hinder employment success.
• Conduct one-on-one meetings with participants to discuss assessment results and set clear, achievable goals.
• Assist participants in developing SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals.
• Create individualized action plans outlining steps to achieve goals, including timelines and resources.

Employment Preparation and Job Search Support

• Provide job search strategies, including resume writing, cover letter creation, and interview preparation.
• Assist with online job application processes and navigating job boards.
• Offer guidance on networking and building professional relationships.
• Conduct workshops on job readiness, soft skills, and industry-specific skills.
• Provide support with occupational licensing or certification requirements.

Follow-up

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of participant interactions, goals, and progress.
• Schedule regular follow-up meetings to monitor progress and address any challenges.
• Offer ongoing support and encouragement throughout the job search process.
• Connect participants with community resources, such as housing assistance, transportation, or childcare.

Reporting and Compliance

• Collect and analyze data on participant outcomes and program effectiveness.
• Prepare regular reports for funders and other stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with program guidelines, regulations, and reporting requirements.

OCCASIONAL DUTIES:

1. Training seminars pertinent to veterans' needs, job development, or other topics relevant to position.

2. Participation in local community activities as needed to ensure quality service to participants.

3. Assist with and participate in One-Stop Job Fairs.

EEO Employer/Vet/Disabled