Youth Specialist

The Youth Specialist works with program participants ages 16 - 24 as they enroll in the Youth Elevate Program and facilitate access to WIOA Youth Services, including case management, individual planning, support, work-based learning, and access to services on an on-going basis. The Specialist will support participants, ensure success with employment and education outcomes, provide follow-up, documentation, reporting and assist with assigned services, records, reports and program development. They will work collaboratively with program and community partners.

Responsibilities & Essential Functions:

Participant Management

• Work with participants utilizing a strengths-based approach to provide information for informed decisions and completion of individualized service strategies.
• Counsel, encourage and motivate participants and provide case management on an on-going basis.
• Utilize and discuss assessment and interview results with young adults to collaboratively determine the support and services needed for participant success.
• Coordinate eligibility, secure required documentation, maintain participant file, and conduct file reviews.
• Assess program participant strengths and needs and provide guidance and assistance with training and employment goals

Collaboration and Community Partnerships

• Make appropriate resource referrals for both WIOA and non-WIOA services, provide follow-up services and track outcomes.
• Work with businesses to identify work based learning opportunities for young adults.
• Keep informed of local employment needs and opportunities.
• Find innovative solutions to customer and partner challenges and exhibit patience and compassion in dealing with issues.

Operational Excellence

• Become familiar with WIOA Youth policies, procedures, and guidelines in planning and implementing services and ensure compliance with all guidelines.
• Create and implement work-based learning contracts and monitor regularly.
• Maintain confidentiality and protect customers’ personal Identifying Information (PII) as required by law.
• Maintain participant files in compliance with program requirements and guidelines.
• Show tolerance and flexibility in working with youth with barriers.

The above-listed responsibilities are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed.  They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities or duties required.  Incumbents will be expected to perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications & Basic Job Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree preferred.

• 3-5 years of workforce development experience.
• Demonstrated ability to work with individuals with barriers to employment and understand and communicate with diverse groups.
• The ability to motivate and assist young adults.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills and high attention to detail.
• High customer service focus.

• Functional use of Microsoft applications such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook.

• Bilingual with Spanish language highly desired.
• Must have reliable vehicle, valid driver’s license, and proof of auto insurance and be insurable.

Sensory and Physical Requirements:

Ability to efficiently and effectively perform all functions of the job.  Ability to clearly communicate program details and information to both funders and the public.

Characteristic Functions:

• Professional and friendly approach to create a welcoming atmosphere.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Ability to create innovative solutions for job seekers. 

Principal Challenges:

• Working with diverse staff and customers.

Environment:

The work is conducted at The Workforce Connection Center with some travel to local schools, worksites, and community locations. Hours are primarily daytime hours, but on occasion, can include evening and/or weekend hours.

Compensation: $22.00 - $24.50/hour

Key Benefits We Offer

• Health & Wellness: Medical, dental, vision insurance, basic and voluntary life insurance as well as short-term disability and employee assistance program.
• Financial Security: Competitive salary, retirement plans with employer discretionary match, and bonus opportunity.
• Work-Life Balance: Paid time off, and flexible schedule.
• Professional Growth: Training programs, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement opportunities.
• Perks & Extras: Employee discounts, and a supportive, inclusive workplace.

Thank you for your interest in working at Goodwill.  We commit to providing each applicant with a hiring experience that allows you to bring your authentic self to the table. If you need an alternative method to apply this for position, please contact Goodwill's Human Resource Department at SharethaH@goodwillni.org.