Employment Specialist

CAN•Catonsville, MD

14d

About The Position

The Employment Specialist supports shelter residents in achieving self-sufficiency through employment readiness, income development, benefits navigation, housing stabilization, and connection to community resources. This position serves as a bridge between emergency shelter services and long-term stability by helping residents develop individualized action plans focused on employment, income growth, housing goals, and community integration. The Specialist works collaboratively with Case Managers, Behavioral Health providers, and community partners to remove barriers and promote successful transitions from shelter to permanent housing.

Requirements

Knowledge of workforce development principles and employment services.
Understanding of homelessness, housing instability, and barriers to self-sufficiency.
Knowledge of local community resources and public assistance programs.
Ability to establish positive working relationships with diverse populations.
Strong organizational and documentation skills.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office, HMIS, and web-based systems.
Associate degree in Human Services, Social Work, Workforce Development, Business, or related field; bachelor’s degree preferred.
Two (2) years of experience in workforce development, employment services, case management, housing services, or related field.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with vulnerable populations preferred.
Valid driver's license and reliable transportation preferred.

Responsibilities

Conduct employment assessments and identify resident strengths, barriers, and career goals.
Assist residents with resume development, job applications, interview preparation, and job search activities.
Facilitate employment readiness workshops and workforce development activities.
Develop and maintain relationships with local employers, staffing agencies, workforce development organizations, and training providers.
Assist residents in securing employment, vocational training, apprenticeships, or educational opportunities.
Collaborate with Case Managers to ensure employment and income goals support housing stabilization plans.
Assist residents in obtaining documentation necessary for employment and housing placement.
Support residents in addressing barriers that may impact housing retention and employment success.
Connect residents with public benefits, financial literacy programs, transportation assistance, childcare resources, healthcare services, and other community supports.
Maintain a current database of employment, educational, and community resources.
Develop partnerships with businesses, community organizations, and service providers.
Provide one-on-one coaching and goal planning.
Encourage resident participation in services that support self-sufficiency.
Monitor progress toward employment and stability goals.
Conduct follow-up meetings and document outcomes.
Maintain accurate case notes and service records in HMIS and other agency databases.
Ensure timely completion of required reports and documentation.
Track employment placements, income increases, training completions, and other outcomes required by funders and agency leadership.
Represent CAN at job fairs, workforce development events, and community resource events.
Develop collaborative relationships that increase opportunities for shelter residents.