Transition Specialist - Pasco

Transition Specialist

If you're looking for an opportunity to transform the lives of poor and homeless men, women, and children in your community, we may have a job for you. Since 1972, Metropolitan Ministries has been providing life-changing solutions for those who are homeless and at risk of becoming homeless in Tampa Bay. We are a grassroots, donor, and volunteer-fueled community nonprofit. At Metropolitan Ministries, we serve families in Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Polk and Hernando counties with compassion, practical help, and a willingness to make a huge difference.

Salary: $43,000 - $45,000

Group health, vision, and dental coverage at affordable rates, along with family coverage if you choose to purchase it.

Preventative care is 100% covered (free) on all plans.

PTO is offered to full-time and part-time employees.

11 days of PTO and 10 paid holidays annually.

Option to participate in the 401K plan with employer match.

$15,000 in employee Life Insurance paid for by Metropolitan Ministries.

Employee Assistance Program

Option to participate in supplemental group insurance plans at affordable rates.

Tuition reimbursement program

Training and career development.

Discounted membership at the YMCA.

The Transition Specialist provides educational support to MM residents, including adults pursuing professional credentials and children enrolled in Pasco County Schools. The Specialist coordinates with local community colleges, the Pasco County School Board, and other educational institutions where adults or children may be attending.

Essential Responsibilities:

1. Meet regularly with the parents of school-age children and adult learners. Provide these clients with coaching and guidance that includes vocational training options and local school enrollment.
2. Develop a detailed education plan with clients, both adult learners and school-age children.
3. Attend the Family Transfer Staffing (FTS) meetings, and any other necessary meetings to provide updates on Adult Education Clients and school-age children.
4. Coordinate with volunteer tutors to staff Adult Education Study sessions and provide one-on-one tutoring to clients as needed.
5. Research the availability of educational programs that align with the adult learner's career goals and interests.
6. Assist the adult learners and school-age children in completing enrollment documents.
7. Collaborate with MM Accounting Department to complete purchases for basic school supplies or transportation needs.
8. Travel to Pasco County schools and other educational settings to advocate for the students and their needs, developing a collaborative, working relationship with Pasco County elementary, middle, and high schools and adult education providers.
9. Understand county, state, and federal guidelines governing homeless education rights and special education and advocates accordingly.
10. Participate in cross-functional team meetings (i.e., Client Care Team Meeting) and advocate for the client's educational needs.
11. Keep current and thorough notes in Clarity and Monday.com throughout the duration of the assistance.
12. Demonstrate flexibility in work schedule to ensure client/program needs are met
13. Participate in Metropolitan Ministries holiday efforts, Bridge Builders, and other fundraising events when needed. Provide tours of the facilities and speak on behalf of Metropolitan Ministries as needed.
14. Keep confidential records according to the Ethical Boundaries for Those That Serve. Maintain professional boundaries.
15. Assist Supervisor as needed and perform any tasks assigned.
16. Meet personal goals and actively contribute to the achievement of the team and organizational targets/goals as stated in the KPIs and the strategic plan.

Education and Experience: A minimum of a BA degree in education, behavioral, social science or a related field. Must be knowledgeable about homeless issues and/or be willing to seek continuing education related to the homeless population and/or a higher degree. Minimum of two years' experience in the field of social services or education. Direct experience working with adult and children learners is required. Must demonstrate a heart for serving poor and homeless families. Bilingual Spanish a plus.

Skills Requirements: Must work effectively with clients, representing and communicating their status and progress to small groups and professionals within a network of the Pasco County School District, Metropolitan Ministries service providers, and applicable and related providers in the surrounding community. Must be able to work within a multi-disciplinary team framework; strong interpersonal, oral, and written communications skills; strong listening skills, dependability, and ability to think creatively; demonstrates maturity and sensitivity to cultural and individual differences in clients served; ability to handle job-related matters in a professional, diplomatic, and confidential manner; willing to work with minimal supervision, yet be able to accept direction; well organized and detail-oriented. Familiarity with learning styles and some understanding of trauma-informed care. Computer literate with knowledge of the Microsoft Suite required.

Physical Requirements: Must have adequate hearing and speaking ability to take part in and provide sound oral communication and information. Must have a valid driver's license and be able to transport self and clients when necessary (in company vehicle). Must be capable of working outdoors in sunlight and higher temperatures for extended periods of time on occasion. Must have the physical, emotional, and spiritual stamina to handle job-related issues and stress.

Other: Must be available to work during normal school hours. Must be available for evening meetings as needed. Must demonstrate legal authorization to work in the United States and pass the required pre-employment background screening.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

We are committed to creating a diverse and welcoming workplace that includes partners with diverse backgrounds and experiences. We believe that enables us to better meet our mission and values while serving individuals throughout our local communities. People of color, women, LGBTQIA+, Veterans and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Qualified applicants with criminal histories will be considered for employment in a manner consistent with all federal state and local ordinances.

Metropolitan Ministries is committed to offering reasonable accommodation to job applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at View phone number on click.appcast.io or via email at View email address on click.appcast.io