Career Navigator at Fairfield

Job Description

Job Description

About Ohio Valley Goodwill Industries
Ohio Valley Goodwill Industries is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing job training, employment placement, and support services for individuals with disabilities and other barriers to employment. With a focus on empowering individuals to achieve greater independence and inclusion in the community, Ohio Valley Goodwill has been serving the Greater Cincinnati area for over 100 years.

Job Description Summary:
We are seeking a motivated and experienced Career Navigator to join our team. This role involves providing comprehensive career guidance and support to participants. This will include conducting regular check-ins, utilizing assessment tools to identify strengths and weaknesses, and setting realistic career goals. The Career Navigator will also assist with job search strategies, including resume and cover letter development, interview preparation, and networking. Additionally, they will provide guidance on training programs, financial aid, and enrollment processes. Post-placement support, such as job retention assistance and career advancement guidance, is also a critical component of this role.

Knowledge/Abilities
Experience in career counseling, coaching, or human resources. Strong understanding of job market trends and employer expectations. Proficient in using career assessment tools and job search platforms. Knowledge of and sensitivity to the unique needs of the target population - justice-involved, unemployed, and underemployed clients. Must be an effective communicator, critical thinker, and problem solver. Documented skill in areas of analyzing information, decision making, research skills, verbal communication, written communication, resolving conflict, workflow implementation, human relations, time management, and integrity. Ability to motivate others toward achieving goals.

Fluent in Spanish is a plus!

Responsibilities:

Conduct Follow-up Career Assessments: Schedule regular check-ins:

• Establish a routine to stay connected with participants, whether it's weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly.
• Utilize assessment tools: Employ standardized career assessments to measure                                        participants' interests, skills, and values.
• Conduct in-depth interviews: Engage in open-ended conversations to gain insights into their career           aspirations, challenges, and recent experiences.
• Review job search progress: Discuss their job search activities, including resume and cover letter             development, job applications, and interview preparation.
• Identify potential barriers: Address any obstacles that may be hindering their progress, such as lack of     transportation, childcare issues, or financial constraints.

Set Career Goals and Develop Job Search Strategies:

• Collaborative goal setting: Work closely with participants to establish realistic and achievable career objectives.
• Tailored job search plans: Create personalized strategies that consider their unique strengths, weaknesses, and preferences.  
• Resume and cover letter development: Provide guidance on crafting effective resumes and cover letters   that highlight relevant skills and experiences.
• Interview preparation: Conduct mock interviews to practice common interview questions and provide   feedback on their responses.
• Networking strategies: Offer advice on building professional relationships through online platforms,   industry events, and alumni networks.

Training Programs:

• Opportunity Accelerator (OA) guidance: Assist participants in navigating the OA platform to explore various career pathway options.
• Program selection: Help them identify training programs that align with their career goals and educational needs.
• Financial aid and scholarship assistance: Provide information on available financial aid options   and help them complete applications.
• Enrollment support: Assist with the enrollment process, including paperwork and deadlines.  
• Academic advising: Offer ongoing support to ensure participants stay on track with their coursework and   maintain satisfactory academic progress.

Organize Workshops:

• Plan and schedule workshops focused on job readiness, soft skills, and industry-specific  training.
• Promote these workshops to participants using various communication channels.
• Gather participant feedback after each workshop to continuously improve content and delivery.

Job Placement:

• Job search assistance: Continuously provide job search resources, including job boards, online job portals, and industry-specific websites.
• Employer networking: Build relationships with local employers to identify potential job openings.
• Job referrals: Connect participants with relevant job opportunities based on their skills and experience.
• Interview preparation: Offer additional support and guidance as needed, including mock interviews and resume review. 
• Post-placement support: Provide ongoing support to ensure job retention and career   advancement, such as assistance with workplace challenges or professional development   opportunities.

Establish a Reporting Schedule:

• Create a Reporting Calendar: Develop a calendar that outlines important reporting deadlines and milestones based on funder requirements and internal assessment schedules.
• Gather Metrics: Regularly collect participation metrics such as attendance, engagement levels, and outcomes related to participant goals.
• Compile Reports: Schedule time to compile comprehensive reports that detail program effectiveness, participant progress, and success stories.
• Distribute Reports: Share reports with relevant stakeholders, including funders, program staff, and community partners to keep them informed of program successes and areas for improvement.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in social work, human services, vocational rehabilitation, or related field preferred.  Three to four years of relevant work experience and Career Navigator Certified through GII may be considered.
• At least 3 years of experience in supported employment or vocational rehabilitation.
• Strong leadership and team management skills
• Knowledge of local labor markets and job development strategies
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Familiarity with relevant regulations and standards in the field of supported employment.

Benefits:
Goodwill offers a competitive compensation package including:

• Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance, Short Term Disability, Long Term Disability
• Paid Vacation and Sick
• Paid Holidays
• 403(b) with company match
• Employee Assistance Program

If you are a strategic thinker with a passion for workforce development and a proven ability to drive results, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. Join us in our mission to empower individuals and transform lives through workforce development!

Ohio Valley Goodwill Industries is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We encourage individuals with disabilities and other barriers to employment to apply. Should you be selected for an interview we will contact you to facilitate your participation in the interview process.

Please complete application and attach resume with detailed work experience. 
Incomplete applications will not be considered for the position.

EEO Employer/Vet/Disabled