Position Summary:
The Career Readiness Specialist is responsible for developing, implementing, and monitoring individualized career and employment plans for participants in the Fatherhood FORGE Grant (Connections 2.0) program. This role supports fathers in overcoming employment barriers, enhancing job readiness, and securing sustainable employment. The Specialist works closely with program staff, community partners, training providers, and employers to ensure successful employment outcomes.
Essential Job Functions:
- Conduct comprehensive intake and career assessments to determine participants' employment history, skills, education, and barriers to employment.
- Develop individualized career readiness plans and monitor progress throughout participation.
- Provide one-on-one and group-based job readiness training, including resume writing, interviewing, job search strategies, soft skills, workplace etiquette, and digital literacy.
- Collaborate with case managers, fatherhood coaches, and other staff to support participants' holistic needs.
- Connect participants with education, training programs, certifications, and apprenticeship opportunities aligned with labor market demand.
- Build and maintain relationships with local employers to identify job openings, internships, and hiring pipelines suitable for participants.
- Support participants in applying for jobs, preparing for interviews, and transitioning into employment.
- Track employment outcomes, retention, and career advancement for grant reporting.
- Maintain accurate, timely case notes, data entry, and documentation in compliance with grant guidelines.
- Assist with program workshops, job fairs, employer events, and community outreach efforts.
- Perform all other duties as assigned.
Essential Qualifications:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the duties and responsibilities satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
Certifications/Licenses:
- Ability to pass First level and NABS background clearance
- During your tenure with WestCare there may be new requirements, including, but not limited to vaccinations that are issued by local, State, Federal, and/or Funders that WestCare may have to comply with. Should this occur Human Resources or appropriate personnel will inform you.
Education:
- High school diploma or GED required
Experience and Competencies:
- Ability to work collaboratively with others in a manner that is pleasant and professional.
- Ability to work well in a team environment.
- Ability to exercise good judgment and discretion.
- Ability to operate a computer and complete documents in Microsoft Word program formats.
- Ability to respond as needed to crisis situations in an efficient manner.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Willing to seek out new work projects and contribute ideas and efforts to the constant improvement of WestCare services.
- Depending on state requirements, may require a social worker license or similar state license.
- Must have good communication and teamwork skills.
Skills Required
- Pass First level and NABS background clearance
- High school diploma or GED
- Ability to operate a computer and complete documents in Microsoft Word
- Ability to work collaboratively and in a team environment
- Ability to exercise good judgment and discretion
- Ability to respond to crisis situations efficiently
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Willingness to seek out new work projects and contribute to program improvement
- May require a social worker license or similar state license depending on state requirements
What We Do
WestCare is a worldwide family of nonprofit organizations providing a wide range of health and human services, including treatment and rehabilitation, mental health and wellness, emergency support, housing, education, and services for veterans and those affected by domestic violence and criminal justice issues.
