Career Engagement Specialist

Job Purpose:The Career Engagement Specialist at Covenant House New Orleans plays a pivotal role in empowering youth to achieve their career aspirations. This position is dedicated to providing comprehensive support, guidance, and resources to young individuals, helping them navigate the complexities of career planning and development. The specialist will work closely with youth to identify their strengths, interests, and goals, and connect them with opportunities that align with their career objectives. By fostering a nurturing environment, the Career Engagement Specialist will contribute to the holistic development of youth, enabling them to become self-sufficient and successful in their chosen career paths.Key Responsibilities:Develop and implement individualized career plans for youth, taking into account their unique skills, interests, and aspirations.Conduct one-on-one career counseling sessions to assist youth in exploring career options and setting realistic goals.Facilitate workshops and training sessions on resume writing, interview preparation, and job search strategies.Establish partnerships with local businesses, educational institutions, and community organizations to create employment and internship opportunities for youth.Monitor and evaluate the progress of youth in their career journeys, providing ongoing support and adjustments to their plans as needed.Collaborate with other departments within Covenant House New Orleans to ensure a coordinated approach to youth development and support.Stay informed about current labor market trends and emerging industries to provide relevant and up-to-date career advice.Advocate for the needs and interests of youth in career-related matters, ensuring they have access to necessary resources and opportunities.Maintain accurate records and documentation of all career engagement activities and outcomes.Participate in professional development opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge related to career counseling and youth development.Required Education:Bachelor's degree in Business, Education, Human Resources, Social Work, Psychology, Counseling, Sociology, Human Services, or a related field is required. A Master's degree is preferred for candidates seeking to advance in this role.The following equivalencies are acceptable in lieu of the abovementioned undergraduate or graduate degree and/or years of professional experience requirements:Three (3) years/ninety (90) credits of college completed AND four (4) years of experience in case management or social services; ORAssociate degree or two (2) years/sixty (60) hours of college completed AND six (6) years of experience in case management or social services; OROne (1) year/thirty (30) credits of college completed AND eight (8) years of experience in case management or social services; ORTen (10) years of experience in case management or social services.Required Experience:Minimum of 3 years of experience in career counseling, workforce development, or a related field. Experience working with youth or young adults is highly desirable.Proven track record of developing and implementing successful career engagement programs or initiatives.Experience in collaborating with community organizations, educational institutions, and employers to create opportunities for career advancement.Demonstrated experience in providing one-on-one career coaching and guidance to individuals from diverse backgrounds.Required Skills and Abilities:Strong understanding of career development theories and practices, including knowledge of labor market trends and employment opportunities.Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to convey complex information clearly and effectively to a variety of audiences.Ability to build rapport and establish trust with individuals, demonstrating empathy and cultural sensitivity.Proficiency in using career assessment tools and software to evaluate skills, interests, and aptitudes.Skilled in developing and conducting workshops, seminars, and training sessions related to career exploration and job readiness.Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.Ability to work independently and as part of a team, demonstrating initiative and flexibility in a dynamic environment.Familiarity with local resources and services available to support career development and employment for young adults.Commitment to the mission and values of Covenant House New Orleans, with a passion for empowering youth to achieve their career goals. #J-18808-Ljbffr Covenant House International