Community Employment Specialist

Community Employment Specialist

Date Posted: Sep 16, 2026

Requisition ID: 484118

Location:

Gary, IN, US, 46402

Begin a fulfilling career with the State of Indiana by joining one of the largest employers in the state, offering a range of opportunities across 60+ agencies. At the state, you'll find competitive compensation, a robust benefits package and a commitment to work-life balance. Most importantly, you'll have the chance to make a real and measurable impact on the lives of Hoosiers across Indiana.

About the Indiana Department of Workforce Development (DWD):

Our mission is to develop a premier workforce that will allow Indiana employers to flourish and entice businesses from outside our state to relocate to Indiana. Everyone at DWD will be required to think outside-the-box; to determine metrics that will allow for measurement and improvement and efficiencies to be made along the way. Cutting edge technologies will be utilized to help assess Indiana’s employment future. If managed properly, Indiana’s workforce will be second to none and completely prepared for the next phase of the state and country’s economic growth.

Role Overview:

This customer-facing role delivers exceptional service to all WorkOne customers, both in person and virtually. Core responsibilities include providing Wagner-Peyser employment services such as job search assistance, career guidance, skill assessments, labor market information, and ensuring accurate enrollment in Indiana Career Connect. The role ensures full RESEA compliance, coordinates employer services with the regional Business Services Team, and collaborates closely with regional WorkOne partners. This position works 37.5 hours per week, Monday-Friday, from 8-4:30pm with an hour for lunch, no remote options.

Salary:

The salary for this position traditionally starts at $42,900.00 but may be commensurate with education and work experience. Use our Compensation Calculator ( to view the total compensation package.

A Day in the Life:

The essential functions of this role are as follows:

• Gather information from applicants, evaluate qualifications, educational backgrounds, and employment barriers.

• Assist clients with job searching and resume building activities.

• Review assessments, client background, and vocational plan interest to recommend and work with partner programs within the WorkOne offices.

• Recommend and administer assessment instruments and interpret aptitude results.

• Explain services available from other public assistance agencies within the community and make referrals.

• Explain services to applicants and advise on employment opportunities.

• Refer clients to the appropriate specialist concerning veterans’, disabled veterans’, and other specialized programs when necessary.

• Utilize data tracking systems to ensure entry of all services provided to job seekers and/or business customers.

• Assist with job/hiring fairs or events for talent recruitment.

• Provide technical assistance for customers using automated systems including all ICC (Indiana Career Connect) programs.

• Present education materials to groups and/or individuals.

The job profile is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.

What You'll Need for Success:

Individuals in this role should minimally be able to articulate or demonstrate the following:

• Ability to understand the different funding sources available to customers.

• Working knowledge of client tracking methods.

• Advanced research skills and the ability to utilize internet-based resources.

• Ability to communicate professionally and interact with different stakeholders.

• Ability to manage relationships, motivate, and assist customers at various levels.

• Ability to utilize State’s current client services program system.

• Demonstrated experience utilizing Microsoft Programs such as Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook.

• Ability to prioritize work and be detailed orientated.

• Ability to adapt to policy changes.

A degree is not required. However, a High School Diploma or High School Equivalent (HSE) and at least 1+ years of experience in customer service applying the outlined knowledge, skills, and abilities in a similar role may be considered.

Individuals should have the ability to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

Supervisory Responsibilities/Direct Reports:

This role may be utilized in a supervisory capacity based on agency needs.

Benefits of Employment with the State of Indiana:

The State of Indiana offers a comprehensive benefit package for full-time employees which includes:

• Three (3) medical plan options (including RX coverage) as well as vision and dental plans

• Wellness Rewards Program: Complete wellness activities to earn gift card rewards

• Health savings account, which includes bi-weekly state contribution

• Deferred compensation 457(b) account (similar to 401(k) plan) with employer match

• Two (2) fully-funded pension plan options

• A robust, comprehensive program of leave policies covering a variety of employee needs, including but not limited to:

• 150 hours of paid New Parent Leave and up to eight weeks of paid Childbirth Recovery Leave for eligible mothers

• Up to 15 hours of paid community service leave

• Combined 180 hours of paid vacation, personal, and sick leave time off

• 12 paid holidays, 14 on election years

• Education Reimbursement Program

• Group life insurance

• Referral Bonus program

• Employee assistance program that allows for covered behavioral health visits

• Qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program

• Free Parking for most positions

• Free LinkedIn Learning access

Equal Employment Opportunity:

The State of Indiana is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to recruiting, selecting, developing, and promoting employees based on individual ability and job performance. Reasonable accommodations may be available to enable individuals with disabilities to complete the application and interview process as well as perform the essential functions of a role. If you require reasonable accommodations to complete this application, you can request assistance by contacting the Indiana State Personnel Department at View email address on click.appcast.io.

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