Youth Employment Specialist I

Job Summary

The role of a Youth Employment Specialist I is to help young adults with disabilities find competitive employment and build their strengths in different areas related to the workforce. The role requires the recruitment of participants and helping them find competitive employment that matches their strengths and interests, while also keeping detailed records of all job-related activities completed. It is necessary to build relationships with state agencies, schools, parents, students, and employers.

Core Work Activities

• To meet assigned Bridges outcome goals.
• Foster and maintain youth relationships in order to establish their commitment to utilizing our services as a resource. Provide assessments as well as individualized training and guidance to assist youth towards their career goals. Identify and address barriers to employment. Provide follow-up services to facilitate their growth as they gain more experience/skills.
• Accurately maintain records to document program activities.
• Manage and represent the “Bridges” brand. Maintain relationships and communication with school districts, school personnel, employers, parents/guardians, counselors, state agencies, and colleagues.
• Regularly attend meetings with various stakeholders.
• Facilitate transportation for participants.
• Maintain participant files and records as required in a timely, complete, and accurate manner.
• General administrative responsibilities.
• Other tasks as assigned.

Assigned Outcome Goals

• Enroll sufficient youth to achieve placement and retention outcomes:
• Sixteen (16) Placements;
• Twelve (12) 90-Day Retentions;
• Ten (10) 180-Day Retentions.

Education and Experience

• Four-year college degree or equivalent in qualifying work experience.
• Formal training and/or experience in the following areas:
• School-to-work transition (work with students with disabilities desirable).
• Case management.
• Job development or employment support.
• Sales, marketing, and networking

Required Skills

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent time management, organizational skills, and attention to detail.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to interact and communicate effectively, specifically:
• Ability to relate effectively with a wide range of stakeholders.
• Ability to build, facilitate, and participate in collaboration between diverse groups.
• Ability to effectively interpret and address needs of diverse constituents.
• Ability to work well under pressure.
• Ability to effectively work with minimal supervision.
• Demonstrated ability to adapt to frequent changes, perform multiple tasks, and prioritize accordingly.
• Strong time management, organizational skills, and attention to detail.
• Knowledge of technology including Microsoft suite applications, database management systems, and other internet-based platforms.
• Ability to maintain security and confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Must be fully vaccinated as defined by the CDC where allowed by local mandate.
• Valid driver’s license (where applicable).
• Ability to safely transport participants to and from interviews, meetings, and appointments(etc.) in a timely manner.
• If using own transportation, will need to pass MVR and insurance requirements.
• Bilingual English/Spanish is a plus.

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods sitting or standing at a desk and working on a computer.
• Ability to navigate inside of schools, business locations, and the local community.
• Ability to operate a vehicle or proficiency in using public transportation for commuting to various locations.
• Ability to operate general office equipment.