Employment Specialist

Short Description: The Employment Specialist provides career guidance and case management services to participants enrolled in Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) programs. This role supports participants through individualized service planning, referrals, assessments, job placement assistance, and follow-up services designed to promote successful employment and long-term retention. Employment Specialists maintain accurate participant records and contribute to program performance and reporting requirements. Job Type: Full Time Job Category: Counseling & Mental Health Services, Professional Services Application Deadline: September 25, 2026 Job Open Date: September 10, 2026 Full Description The Employment Specialist provides career guidance and case management services to participants enrolled in Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) programs. This role supports participants through individualized service planning, referrals, assessments, job placement assistance, and follow-up services designed to promote successful employment and long-term retention. Employment Specialists maintain accurate participant records and contribute to program performance and reporting requirements. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Recruit, interview, screen, determine eligibility, stabilize, enroll, and orient program participants. Network and maintain relationships with workforce system partners and social service organizations to leverage funding and supportive services. Assess participants’ job readiness, training, placement, and support service needs. Provide participants with support services and referrals to community agencies to address barriers to employment. Provide labor market information on in-demand occupations and local employment opportunities to develop individualized career and employment action plans. Develop work experience, on-the-job training, and internship opportunities for participants. Maintain regular contact with participants, training providers, and employers to monitor progress, resolve issues, support retention, and identify additional training needs. Facilitate individual and group job search preparation and training to build workplace readiness skills and professional habits. Maintain complete, accurate, and compliant participant files. Collect and compile data and statistics required for local, state, and federal reports. Collaborate as part of a team to ensure program and system goals are successfully met. Perform other related duties as assigned. PREFERRED SKILLS, REQUIREMENTS, AND EXPERIENCE Associate’s to bachelor’s degree preferred; relevant experience may substitute for formal education. Experience managing, working in, or providing oversight of Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) employment and training programs. Knowledge of WIOA and related federal and state regulations. Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access). Strong written and verbal communication skills. Project management experience. Experience with data compilation, data entry, and reporting. Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team. Why Join Us Mission-Driven Work: Help young people unlock their full potential Supportive Culture: Collaborative team environment Professional Growth: Opportunities to expand your impact and skills Inclusive Values: Work with an organization that prioritizes equity and accessibility Please note that employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Employee Experience This position may require travel to meet with clients, attend employer meetings, or participate in community events. Flexible scheduling may be necessary to accommodate participant needs, including occasional evenings and weekends. This position requires the ability to sit for extended periods, operate standard office equipment, and occasionally lift up to 25 pounds. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Must possess a valid driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle. Salary and Benefits Salary is based on experience and qualifications. Benefits package may include health insurance, retirement savings plan, paid time off, and opportunities for professional development. Equal Opportunity Employer: Kansas WorkforceONE is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We encourage individuals with disabilities and members of other underrepresented groups to apply. Mission Statement: The Local Area I Workforce Development Board exists to connect employers to a motivated workforce having skills to obtain and maintain meaningful employment throughout its 96-county community. #J-18808-Ljbffr