Workforce Initiative Specialist

Columbus House opened its doors in 1982 to provide services for men and women at least 18 years of age. Our goals quickly broadened from the mere provision of food and shelter and simple survival, to understanding and working toward overcoming the problems which cause people to become homeless. Columbus House, along with its core of loyal supporters, friends, and volunteers, remains committed to its mission: "To serve people experiencing homelessness or at imminent risk by providing life-saving outreach, shelter and housing and by fostering their personal growth and independence. We advocate for and create affordable housing to end homelessness in our communities."

About the role

Under the purview of the Employment and Benefits Manager, the Workforce Initiatives Specialist develops and implements workforce development strategies that create pathways to employment and economic stability for individuals and families experiencing homelessness. This position coordinates employment training programs, cultivates employer partnerships, and leads the development of social enterprise initiatives that provide meaningful work experience and sustainable employment opportunities. Working collaboratively with community partners, employers, and internal teams, the Workforce Initiatives Specialist empowers participants to overcome barriers to employment while advancing innovative workforce solutions.

Responsibilities

• Design, coordinate, and facilitate workforce development programs, including job readiness, life skills, financial literacy, and vocational training.
• Build and maintain partnerships with local employers to identify job opportunities, internships, apprenticeships, and hiring initiatives.
• Coordinate hiring events, career fairs, employer presentations, and workforce workshops.
• Recruit, assess, and support participants experiencing homelessness through individualized employment and career planning.
• Serve as the primary liaison between employers and program participants to ensure successful job placements and retention.
• Develop and implement social enterprise initiatives that create transitional and permanent employment opportunities while generating revenue to support the organization's mission.
• Collaborate with community organizations, educational institutions, workforce agencies, and government partners to expand employment resources.
• Stay informed on workforce trends, labor market needs, and best practices in employment services for vulnerable populations.
• Participate in community coalitions and represent the organization at workforce development meetings and events.
• Advocate for equitable hiring practices and educate employers on the benefits of hiring individuals with barriers to employment.
• Other related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Excellent organizational and time management skills with a deadline-oriented mindset.
• Strong written and oral communication skills employing the English language.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and other common desktop and online applications.
• Knowledge of and ability to effectively navigate substance abuse, mental health, and social services networks.
• Familiar with criminal justice barriers and able to engage, motivate, and support the individuals serviced.
• Familiar with mental health, substance abuse and dual diagnosis issues and group dynamics.
• Basic knowledge of all aspects of the delivery of person-centered services.
• Able to meet all documentation requirements within set timeframes.
• Knowledgeable of crisis intervention, boundaries, confidentiality, universal precautions, risk assessment, and motivational interviewing.
• Ability to create professional and respectful relationships with clients, outside providers, employers, and the community.
• Empathetic and compassionate, with individuals that have experienced homelessness and factors that lead to homelessness.
• Valid driver’s license with a good driving history.

Schedule

• Tuesday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM or 8:30 AM–4:30 PM
• 32 hours per week

Pay

Salary range: $25.50–$27.50 per hour

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision benefits
• 401 K retirement plan with employer matching contribution
• Paid time off
• 10 paid holidays