Career Specialist

The Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida • Orlando, FL

2d

About The Position

The Career Specialist supports individuals experiencing homelessness by helping them prepare for, secure, and maintain employment as part of their path toward housing stability and self-sufficiency. In addition to workforce development responsibilities, the Career Specialist is a trained member of the Disaster Resilience Team, assisting with client support and operations during extreme weather events and emergencies. This dual role requires flexibility, compassion, and a commitment to trauma-informed care.

Requirements

• 2+ years of experience in employment services, workforce development, case management, or related field.
• Valid Florida driver’s license and reliable transportation required.
• Must complete FEMA or disaster readiness training upon hire (if not already certified).
• Willingness to work a flexible schedule during disaster activations, including evenings, weekends and holidays.
• Ability to support clients with diverse backgrounds and barriers in setting and achieving realistic employment goals.
• Ability to build trust and motivate clients through compassionate, non-judgmental, and strengths-based communication.
• Organized and able to balance caseloads with responsiveness to emergencies.
• Ability to work outdoors during extreme weather conditions (e.g., heat, rain, cold) to assist in locating and bringing unsheltered individuals to safety and shelter.

Nice To Haves

• Experience working in shelter, social services, or nonprofit setting strongly preferred.
• Bilingual (Spanish or Haitian Creole) preferred.

Responsibilities

• Conduct individual employment assessments to identify strengths, skills, barriers, and career goals.
• Assist clients with creating résumés, completing job applications, preparing for interviews, and navigating online job platforms.
• Provide referrals to vocational training, education programs, and employment partners.
• Build relationships with local employers to identify job openings and coordinate hiring opportunities for shelter guests.
• Monitor job retention and support clients in maintaining employment through regular follow-up.
• Coordinate with housing specialists to support wraparound employment plans.
• Serve as an active member of the Disaster Resilience Team during hurricanes, extreme heat/cold, and other emergencies.
• Assist with shelter operations during activations, including intake, staffing support, and basic needs distribution.
• Provide emergency employment-related assistance, such as replacing IDs or connecting disabled clients with SOAR specialist.
• Participate in disaster preparedness drills and trainings.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed