Career Specialist

OLD COLONY Y
JOB DESCRIPTION
TITLE: Career Specialist – OCC CJSC
REPORTS TO: Director, OCC Community Justice Support Center
JOB CLASSIFICATION: Non-Exempt
JOB SUMMARY: The Career Specialist is responsible for assisting participants with entering, re
entering, improving and maintaining employment. The Career Specialist will conduct instructional
groups and psycho-educational classes that will address issues and needs such as: career interest
areas, career planning, job availability, resume writing, interviewing skills, CORI issues, interview
follow up, dressing to impress, and job retention.
He/she will be familiar with resources available in the surrounding communities, networking within
those communities, making referrals to community supports as needed and documenting participant
progress at the Center. The use of various curricula, media outlets and service delivery methods are
encouraged as the participants range greatly in age, needs and life experience. The Career
Specialist will demonstrate the character values of honesty, respect, responsibility and caring.
JOB FUNCTIONS:
Program/Department Responsibility:
 Perform basic assessments of participant work-readiness, career interests, and work history.
 Develop appropriate job opportunities for participants through employer outreach activities and
networking activities.
 Assist participants who may be interested in pursuing vocational training programs in lieu of
employment.
 Develop participant employment skills using resources on hand or others that are developed by the
Career Specialist and identify areas of resource need.
 Work with clinical team to address participant areas of strength or need that will prove to be
supports or barriers to participant success.
 Perform case management of the participants at the Center.
 Complete entry of participant information (e.g. intake assessment, 30-day reviews, CBI’s) into
CIMS (Client Information Management System).
 Ensure accurate upkeep of participant files.
 Facilitate groups and classes as assigned.
 Maintain participant data on number of interviews, job offers, and successful placements in full
time or part-time employment.
 Monitor participant use of computer lab for job search activities.
 Issue and monitor completion of CBIs (Internal Discipline Behavioral Interventions) as needed.
 Assist participants to develop and achieve vocational goals.
 Collection and documentation of urine screens as needed.
 Other duties as assigned or directed by the supervisor(s).
Supervision of Personnel: NONE
Fiscal Responsibility: Adhere to all fiscal policies and procedures such as petty cash, purchase orders,
vouchers and employee expenses as requested.
Facility/Housekeeping Responsibility: Ensure the highest level of cleanliness by cleaning and/or
inspecting areas of responsibility.
Interdivisional/Community/Volunteer Responsibility:
 Attend all assigned meetings.
 Actively participate in the Y’s Annual Campaign.
YMCA LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES - LEADER
Mission Advancement: Accepts and demonstrates the Y’s values. Demonstrates a desire to serve
others and fulfill community needs. Recruits volunteers and builds effective, supportive working
relationships with them. Supports fundraising.
Collaboration:
Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions, and
perceptions. Builds rapport and relates well to others. Seeks first to understand the other
person’s point of view and remains calm in challenging situations. Listens for understanding and
meaning; speaks and writes effectively. Takes initiative to assist in developing others.
Operational Effectiveness: Makes sound judgments, and transfers learning from one situation to
another. Embraces new approaches and discovers ideas to create a better member experience.
Establishes goals, clarifies tasks, plans work, and actively participates in meetings. Follows
budgeting policies and procedures, and reports all financial irregularities immediately. Strives to
meet or exceed goals and deliver a high-value experience for members.
Personal Growth: Pursues self-development that enhances job performance. Demonstrates an
openness to change, and seeks opportunities in the change process. Accurately assesses personal
feelings, strengths, and limitations and how they impact relationships. Has the functional and
technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up
to-date knowledge and skills in technology.
Education/Experience/Physical Requirements:
 Bachelor’s degree required in counseling or related field.
 Good oral and written presentation skills.
 Experience working with adults, at-risk populations, or offenders is preferred.
 Computer skills: Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook, and Teams.
 Valid Massachusetts Driver’s License and good driving record.
 Must submit and pass drug testing upon hire.
 A minimum of one evening shift per week is required and travel required for meetings or trainings.
 Must be able to walk, sit, stand, drive and bend during the work day.
CLOSING STATEMENT:
To ensure the overall operation of the Y by supporting teamwork the Career Specialist will accept
additional responsibilities as assigned.

Education/Experience/Physical Requirements:
 Bachelor’s degree required in related field.
 Good oral and written presentation skills.
 Minimum of one year of experience engaging in case management activities such as enrolling
consumers in public benefits programs.
 Computer skills including MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook and Teams).
 Valid Massachusetts Driver’s License and good driving record.
 Must submit and pass drug testing upon hire.
 Some evening availability required.
 Some traveling required for meetings and trainings.
 Must be able to walk, sit, stand, drive and bend during the work day.