Employment Specialist

Lutheran Family Services - Council Bluffs, IA

Full-time - Entry Level

Hybrid - Council Bluffs, IA

Nursing and Residential Care Facilities

About the position

The Employment Specialist plays a crucial role in providing education and employment services to refugees, immigrants, parolees, asylees, and survivors of human trafficking. This position is designed to ensure that these vulnerable populations receive tailored, client-centered services that contribute to their early self-sufficiency. The Employment Specialist is responsible for assessing clients' needs and creating individualized employability plans that address their unique challenges and barriers to employment. This role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to navigate various service areas, including housing, health, legal, social services, employment, and education. In addition to direct client services, the Employment Specialist will assist clients in developing essential job search tools such as resumes and cover letters, and will utilize multiple job search resources to identify suitable career opportunities. The role also involves providing ongoing case management to support clients' career development and collaborating with various community partners, including non-profits and medical providers, to ensure comprehensive support for clients. The Employment Specialist will attend hiring events and networking opportunities to foster relationships with potential employers and community partners. Maintaining accurate client documentation and ensuring compliance with all program requirements is essential. The Employment Specialist will also compile data and write reports on client success stories, contributing to the overall mission of Lutheran Family Services to create a diverse, equitable, inclusive, and accessible workplace.

Responsibilities

• Provide client-centered services to refugees, immigrants, parolees, asylees, and human trafficking victims.
• Assess clients thoroughly and create individualized employability plans.
• Troubleshoot challenges faced by clients and provide referrals to overcome barriers to employment.
• Assist clients in developing job search tools such as resumes and cover letters.
• Utilize multiple job search tools to identify career opportunities for clients.
• Refer clients to skill development programs, including English language acquisition and vocational training.
• Assist clients in preparing for interviews and attend interviews with them as needed.
• Provide ongoing case management to ensure career development for clients.
• Collaborate with and serve as a liaison between non-profits, medical providers, and community agencies.
• Foster positive relationships with partner organizations serving clients.
• Comply with all funders, program, and organization requirements.
• Attend hiring events, meetings, or networking events hosted by community partners/businesses.
• Act on behalf of clients regarding their case when working with other organizations.
• Maintain a positive, respectful demeanor during all contact with clients, staff, and the public.
• Create and maintain client files with necessary documentation and ensure information is entered into program databases promptly.
• Assist in compiling data and writing reports and client success stories.
• Ensure compliance in protecting confidential client or agency information.

Requirements

• High school diploma / GED required.
• Bachelor's degree in Human Services related field preferred.
• Case management and/or refugee employment services experience is preferred.
• Bilingual in English and another language preferred, especially languages spoken by client populations.
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and analytical skills.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
• Ability to problem-solve independently and proactively address challenges.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and delegate when appropriate.
• Commitment to uphold the mission, vision, and values of Lutheran Family Services.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience working with diverse populations and understanding their unique challenges.
• Valid driver's license and liability auto insurance.
• Experience in community outreach and networking.