Workforce Development Specialist

The Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis, the leading champion of empowerment and opportunity for individuals throughout the region in securing economic self‑reliance, social equality, and civil rights, is seeking a highly motivated individual with a passion for helping others to work as a Workforce Development Specialist. This position will support our Save Our Sons program which affirms, empowers, and inspires people from all walks of life. Participants are supported and nurtured on their journey to achieve their personal and professional goals. The Workforce Development Specialist will play a critical role in the Save Our Sons program efforts to support clients as they pursue new careers and build financial stability. This position requires a strategic thinker with excellent project management skills and a passion for helping others achieve their full potential. Major Responsibilities Participate in the development and implementation of comprehensive workforce development plans and initiatives that align with the Save Our Sons® program mission and goals. Provide engaging one‑on‑one career advising and support to program participants, helping them overcome potential barriers to employment and identify career options that match natural skills, interests, and abilities while offering a self‑sustaining wage and opportunities for growth. Foster relationships with local businesses and industries to facilitate job placements for program participants. Collaborate with other program staff to develop and implement case management services for program participants. Deliver job readiness training and workshops for clients, including resume writing, interview skills, and job search strategies. Utilize effective communication strategies to follow up, follow through, and cross‑collaborate in service of advancing the client’s journey to meet their goals, the department's goals, and the organization’s goals. Be responsible for orientation and onboarding sessions, awards programs, and other program events. Prepare weekly progress reports for submission to the Director of Save Our Sons and provide feedback to clients that will enhance their succession growth. Perform other job‑related duties as assigned. Ideal Candidate Must Have 2+ years of workforce development experience with demonstrated success in facilitating direct hire placements. Understand the complexities of helping people overcome barriers to finding careers that lead to financial self‑sufficiency. Excellent customer service. Knowledge of casework concepts. Effective verbal and written communication skills. Demonstrate tact and discretion in preparing, disclosing, and handling information of a confidential and sensitive nature. Knowledge of common software applications. College coursework in business or related fields is desirable; an associate or bachelor's degree is preferred. We are proud to be an equal‑opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, military service or status, pregnancy, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other status protected by law. #J-18808-Ljbffr