Career Specialist

Commonwealth of Massachusetts•Worcester, MA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Career Specialist plays a critical role in supporting individuals with current or past involvement in the criminal-legal system by connecting them with meaningful employment, job training/readiness, and vocational opportunities. This position focuses on building strong relationships with employers, training providers, and community partners to create inclusive pathways to employment for justice-impacted individuals. The Career Specialist will assess client skills and interests, provide job readiness coaching, support applications, and interviews, and advocate for fair hiring practices. A key component of this role is to reduce stigma around criminal records by connecting with employers to promote second-chance hiring. The Career Specialist collaborates closely with the counselors and coordinators, workforce development teams in the community, and reentry service providers to ensure holistic client-centered support.

Requirements

The ability to communicate effectively with people in a direct, clear and professional manner.
General knowledge about the purpose of a community safety facility; understanding of the goals and objectives of a community correction program and a general familiarity with the court systems.
Ability to communicate respectfully and professionally with clients in an empathic way.
Proven verbal and written communication skills.
Experience working with the justice-involved population with diverse backgrounds.
Working knowledge of Google Suite, Microsoft Excel and Word.
Some physical effort demanded when performing testing functions under typical office conditions in a correctional/office setting.
Must possess an active driver's license and be able to drive/transport individuals using the WCSO van/car, if needed.
Frequently required to sit, stand, talk and hear.
Must be able to work some evenings and cover additional shifts as needed.
Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university.

Nice To Haves

A minimum of two years of experience working in a social service setting, knowledge of community/labor market, barriers to employment for persons that are justice impacted and human resources recruitment

Responsibilities

Engage and assess clients to identify employment goals, strengths, and barriers by utilizing assessment tools
Develop individualized employment or training plans tailored to each client’s needs
Build and maintain partnerships with employers and training providers open to hiring or working with justice-impacted individuals
Provide job readiness support including resume development, interview preparation, and soft skills training
Work with employers to create pathways for referrals
Work with employers regarding job openings
Track client progress and provide ongoing support post-placement to ensure retention and success.
Maintain accurate and timely documentation of services and outcomes
Provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy groups within the center to clients
To help clients prepare resumes and cover letters, including mock interviews
Adhere to Sheriff’s Office policies and procedures
To maintain regular attendance
To perform other duties, as required.