Employment Specialist

Boston Public Health Commission - Boston, MA

Full-time - Mid Level

Boston, MA

Administration of Human Resource Programs

About the position

The Employment Specialist plays a crucial role in connecting returning citizens with employment opportunities and workforce development programs. This position involves community and business engagement to create meaningful job opportunities, managing workforce needs, and advising leadership on employment challenges. The specialist will also assist clients with job application materials and establish partnerships with training programs and employers.

Responsibilities

• Provide Office of Returning Citizen's clients with direct resume, cover letter, and job application assistance.
• Work with the Director of Policy and Strategic Initiatives to establish relationships with City Hall and State agencies to create programs and policies for returning citizens.
• Develop workforce development program goals and strategies in collaboration with the Office of Returning Citizen's Director of Strategic Initiatives & Partnerships.
• Lead engagement with employment-related community organizations and local employers.
• Establish connections to CORI-friendly employers for job referrals for returning citizens.
• Assist clients in accessing workforce programs leading to apprenticeships or certifications.
• Refer participants to partner agencies for direct service delivery.
• Provide monthly updates to the Director of Policy and Strategic Initiatives regarding client employment processes and challenges.
• Build and maintain professional relationships with team members, community partners, and employers.
• Attend necessary meetings related to job readiness training and community engagement.
• Collect and input data into program evaluation databases for review.

Requirements

• Preferred Bachelor's Degree in organizational management, workforce development, social work, or related field.
• Two to three years of documented experience leading workforce development and employment readiness programs.
• Experience working with the returning citizens population.
• Demonstrated experience establishing programs and partnerships with workforce agencies.
• Ability to develop cross-agency partnerships with service providers and government agencies.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Experience managing grant and partnership operations.