Employment Counselor

Equus•New Bedford, MA

17h•Hybrid

About The Position

We help job seekers and career changers prepare for and advance in careers with a focus on sustainable, high-growth, high-demand industries. Our committed and well-trained workforce professionals deliver comprehensive workforce solutions at integrated career centers, sector-focused centers and community, and partner sites.

Requirements

Associate degree in Human Services, Education, Workforce Development, or related field; or equivalent work experience.
1–3 years of experience in workforce development, case management, or related programs preferred.
Strong customer service, communication, and interpersonal skills.
Experience working with diverse populations, including individuals from varying cultural, educational, and economic backgrounds.
Ability to manage multiple priorities and maintain accurate documentation.
Familiarity with local labor market trends and community resources.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.

Responsibilities

Conduct RESEA initial and final reviews, including intensive one-on-one career action planning and job search assessments (in-person or virtual).
Review and evaluate claimant work search activities; provide guidance on effective job search strategies and proper completion of work search logs.
Educate customers on RESEA requirements, labor market tools, and job search expectations.
Assist customers with Mass JobQuest registration and navigation of online job search tools.
Address basic unemployment insurance questions and refer customers to appropriate unemployment services when needed.
Triage customers to appropriate service pathways (self-directed vs. staff-assisted).
Promote career center services and available resources to ensure customer engagement.
Ensure accurate and timely MOSES data entry and documentation for all RESEA activities.
Manage a caseload of participants, providing individualized coaching, counseling, and mentoring.
Assess participant skills, work history, education, and employment barriers; develop strategies to support employment outcomes.
Develop and maintain individualized employment plans with short- and long-term goals.
Conduct ongoing one-on-one meetings focused on job search, job readiness, training, and employment retention.
Monitor participant progress from initial engagement through job placement, retention, and advancement.
Maintain regular contact with participants to address employment challenges and provide continued support.
Review resumes and provide basic feedback; refer customers to workshops or advanced career services as needed.
Facilitate access to training opportunities, education programs, and career advancement resources.
Provide information on in-demand occupations, local labor market trends, and employer expectations.
Support participants in improving job readiness and employability skills.
Maintain knowledge of community resources and supportive services to address participant needs.
Maintain accurate and up-to-date participant records in electronic systems and files, including service history and supportive services.
Track participation, attendance, and progress toward employment and retention goals.
Ensure compliance with program requirements, performance benchmarks, and reporting standards.
Notify appropriate agencies of employment status changes, including job placement or loss of employment, as required.
Coordinate with internal staff and external partners to ensure participants receive appropriate services.
Build and maintain relationships with employers and community resources to support job placement and career advancement.
Work collaboratively with team members to support center-wide performance goals and service delivery.