Community Navigator Specialist

Overview

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) oversees workforce and economic development initiatives outlined in the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA). These initiatives aim to prepare Illinois residents for careers in the clean energy sector and support the expansion of clean energy businesses, prioritizing historically disadvantaged communities.

Job Description

The Community Navigation Specialist engages the community to share information about clean energy job opportunities, educates individuals on various employment options, and guides them toward necessary training. This role involves leadership responsibilities, enhancing professional development, and training staff.

• Educate the community on how SER and CEJA serve them
• Nurture connections with schools, training centers, higher education institutions, religious institutions, businesses, shelters, and other relevant entities
• Deliver presentations to students, faculty, congregations, and other audiences about career opportunities in clean energy and ways to engage in this field
• Punctuality, articulate communication, and self-motivation are essential
• Maximize branding and advertising potential by developing marketing campaigns
• Engage in community surveys, door-to-door outreach, event coordination, fundraisers, distribution of flyers and door hangers, and other promotional activities
• Ensure prospective participants are well-informed about the services offered, guiding them on the path to a brighter future
• Type speed of 50 words per minute, proficiently retrieve and analyze relevant data from surveys and contractual objectives
• Compile essential information to facilitate accurate data entry tasks
• Demonstrate a positive demeanor, maintain a professional appearance, and exhibit a fervent commitment to bridging the gap of poverty, striving for equal opportunities for all to pursue lucrative careers and attain financial independence
• Willingness to undertake additional responsibilities as required

Requirements

• Full insurance vehicle and willingness to transport marketing materials
• Extensive outreach and local travel to promote community awareness
• Take on extra daily responsibilities to enhance and refine leadership skills
• Ability to lift at least 20 to 50 pounds

The applicant must possess a vibrant energy and be adept at interacting with unfamiliar individuals in a professional capacity, effectively communicating the range of services provided by SER and CEJA. Exceptional communication abilities, adept in collaborating with individuals impacted both directly and indirectly by systemic oppression. Ability to travel to various locations in Chicago and valid Illinois driver’s license. Proficiency in computer applications is required, along with the ability to successfully pass a criminal background check. Also, candidates must demonstrate the capacity to work a full workday weekly.

Desired Qualifications

• Passionate about recruitment with some sales experience
• Bachelor's or Master's degree in education, social services, youth development, psychology, or a related field, or currently pursuing such a degree
• Two years of relevant work experience
• Bilingual in Spanish, residing near the primary office, with a deep understanding of the Little Village community and its inhabitants