Employment Specialist 3 (WSS3): WorkSource North Seattle

The Employment Security Department (ESD) is seeking a customer-focused, service-driven workforce development professional to join our WorkSource team. The ideal candidate is an empathetic, solutions-oriented problem solver who thrives in a fast-paced customer service environment. They communicate clearly, build rapport quickly, and adapt their approach to meet the diverse needs of job seekers and employers. They are comfortable facilitating groups, coaching individuals, and navigating digital tools. In addition, they value equity, collaboration, and continuous engagement, and are committed to helping Washingtonians access meaningful employment and training opportunities. About the Workforce Services Division Workforce Services Division (WSD) is made up of three Lines of Business: WorkSource, Central Operations System Support, and Washington Service Corps (WSC). WSD administers the Labor Exchange (LEX), Migrant Seasonal Farmworker (MSFW), Veterans Services, Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA), and WorkFirst programs for job seekers and employers in Washington and provides job seekers with referrals to partners providing Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act (WIOA) adult, youth, and dislocated worker training and support services. As a WorkSource Specialist, you will provide direct services to job seekers and employers in a WorkSource office, supporting all lines of business within the WorkSource system. You will help customers identify goals, overcome barriers, and connect to employment, training, and supportive services. Your work directly supports ESD’s mission by partnering to connect job seekers and employers through integrated, customer-centered service delivery. You will also deliver employment and career services, facilitate workshops and orientations, and assist customers in navigating online tools and job search resources. You’ll assess needs, develop service plans, provide referrals, and maintain accurate case documentation and collaborate with WorkSource partners and community organizations to ensure customers receive coordinated, comprehensive support. Some of what you will do: Provide customer-centered employment services , including interviews, assessments, job readiness evaluation, and development of employment or training plans. Deliver career guidance , job search support, and referrals to training providers, partner programs, and supportive services. Assist customers with digital tools , including WorkSourceWA, online applications, résumé development, and job search technologies. Facilitate workshops and orientations , both in-person and virtually, on employment topics and WorkSource services. Identify barriers and connect customers to resources , including internal and external support services. Administer formal and informal assessments , interpret results, and incorporate findings into service plans. Maintain accurate records , including case notes, service plans, expenditures, and outcomes in agency systems. Engage employers, partners, and community organizations to coordinate services, confirm eligibility, and promote WorkSource programs. Provide general guidance on unemployment insurance , directing customers to appropriate staff for issue resolution. Required Qualifications Option 1: One year experience as a WorkSource Specialist 2 or equivalent class within the Employment Security Department, or another state’s Employment Security agency. Option 2: A Bachelor's degree and two years of relevant experience in workforce development, social or human resource services, public relations, or public contact work, such as: unemployment insurance, social services, human resource services, education, public relations, benefits programs, insurance claims, law enforcement and banking. Option 3: A combination of education and/or relevant experience that totals six or more years . Required Equity Competencies The ability to take action to learn and grow. The ability to take action to meet the needs of others. Required Experience Includes Employment Coaching Expertise: Ability to provide career guidance and training. Workforce Development Knowledge: Proficiency in outlining employment options. Employment Support and Referral Expertise: Ability to assess job seekers’ needs effectively. Digital Literacy and Online Navigation Expertise: Ability to support job seekers in using web-based employment tools. Customer Assistance Skills: Proficiency in guiding individuals through digital job search platforms. Education to Experience Equivalences Associate Degree = 2 years | Bachelor Degree = 4 years | Masters or Higher = 5 years Additional Requirements Must be able to pass Unemployment Insurance (UI) & Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) claim and fraud check. Equal Employment Opportunity The Employment Security Department is an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, ethnic, racial, religious, sexual orientation, and gender identity diversity. This position and the Workforce Services Division welcome applicants of all backgrounds, including women, racial and ethnic minorities, people with disabilities, people over 40 years of age, people with religious beliefs, veterans, or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities. #J-18808-Ljbffr State of Washington Employment Security Department