Career Developer I

Turning Point of Central California, Inc. • Bakersfield, CA

7d • $20 - $26 • Onsite

About The Position

Turning Point of Central California, Inc. was founded in 1970. For over 50 years now, we have been transforming lives across the state of California. From Mental Health to Community Corrections, Children’s Services, Housing Programs, Recovery Services, Substance Abuse Disorders & more; we serve people in need. Our desire is to see individuals reach their full potential, and create lasting change that will stand the test of time. This job will expire after 10 days. The Career Developer reports to the Program Director and is responsible for managing the career development services provided at the Male Community Reentry Program (MCRP). The MCRP is designed to support individuals transitioning from incarceration to community life through structured residential programming. The Career Developer plays a pivotal role in this process by delivering tailored employment and educational services that empower participants to achieve self-sufficiency and long-term success. This position is integral to helping residents identify and pursue vocational goals, secure employment, and engage in educational opportunities. Services are delivered through both individual and group sessions, customized to meet the diverse needs of the MCRP population. The Career Developer collaborates closely with substance use disorder (SUD) counselors, parole agents, and community partners to ensure participants are equipped with the tools, resources, and support necessary for a successful and sustainable reintegration into society.

Requirements

• Four-year degree in a social, human services, criminal justice or behavioral science program from an accredited college or university and a minimum of one (1) year work experience working in a human service, corrections, employment or community-based services. Work experience may be substituted for academic studies, exchanging one (1) year of work experience in a related field for one (1) year of academic education. Total work experience needed in lieu of the combination of education and work experience is five (5) years.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with community partners and service providers.
• Proficiency in digital tools and job search platforms.
• Commitment to supporting justice involved individuals in their reintegration journey.
• Understand and follow complex oral and written instructions.
• Maintain accurate records, files, and databases.
• Ability to write substantive and grammatically correct case notes and reports.
• Intermediate computer skills in Office 365, Teams, Zoom and other communication/meeting platforms.
• Possess a valid driver’s license and have access to a dependable means of transportation that is properly insured and operated in accordance with all laws. Agency insurer authorization is required.
• Ability to pass a pre-employment criminal background check.
• Ability to pass a pre-employment physical, drug screen, and TB test.

Nice To Haves

• Current certified training in emergency first aid and CPR procedures
• Experience in workforce development, vocational counseling, or a related field.

Responsibilities

• Conduct individualized employment assessments to identify participant strengths, barriers, and career goals.
• Assess participants’ educational levels and vocational interests.
• Develop and maintain a personalized career plan for each participant, outlining employment goals, educational needs, vocational interests, and timelines with short- and long-term job objectives.
• Conduct regular reviews and updates to career plans based on participant progress and evolving needs.
• Collaborate with substance use disorder (SUD) counselors to ensure career plans align with broader reentry goals.
• Complete case notes, career plans, and group notes within the Automated Reentry Management System (ARMS) or other electronic database as assigned.
• Facilitate job readiness groups/workshops covering resume writing, interview techniques, workplace etiquette. job searching, appropriate disclosure of past convictions and/or parole status to potential employers, professional attire, grooming, eye contact, body language, and developing good work habits.
• Connect participants with local employers and job opportunities.
• Refer participants to GED programs, adult basic education, ESL classes, and vocational training providers.
• Monitor progress and outcomes of educational and training services.
• Build and maintain relationships with local businesses, workforce development boards, and training centers.
• Develop internship, apprenticeship, and on-the-job training opportunities.
• Maintain and monitor on-site computer stations to ensure functionality and accessibility.
• Assist participants in using computers for job search, resume creation, online training, and email communication.
• Provide basic digital literacy support and troubleshoot technical issues.
• Guide participants in identifying and collecting necessary documents (e.g., California ID, Social Security card, and work permits).
• Support the creation and formatting of resumes and cover letters.
• Assist with completing job applications and managing online profiles.
• Maintain a checklist of required employment documents and track participant progress.
• Serve as the primary approver for resident passes related to employment and education, including job searches, ongoing employment, school attendance, and school applications, ensuring alignment with career development plans and program guidelines.
• Will think and act quickly and efficiently in emergencies.
• Will drive on Agency business.
• Physical presence at the program is required.

Benefits

• Company paid benefits package including medical, dental, vision, Employee Assistance Program, Pension Fund and many other voluntary benefits
• Qualified non-profit for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level