Vocation Specialist (Career Readiness Coordinator)

Franklin County Community Based Correctional Facility • Columbus, OH

156d

About The Position

The Vocation Specialist is responsible for supporting residents in obtaining meaningful employment and vocational certifications to aid in their successful reentry into the community. This position serves as the primary operator of the OhioMeansJobs center for the facility, organizes vocational opportunities, facilitates employment-related resources, and works closely with external partners. The Vocation Specialist coordinates and transports residents to job interviews, tracks vocational outcomes, and actively seeks and brings resources into the facility to assist residents in achieving vocational success. Reports directly to the Vocation Manager.

Requirements

• Associate or bachelor’s degree in vocational education, social services, criminal justice.
• Two (2) years of experience in workforce development, vocational counseling, or employment services preferred.
• Experience working with justice-involved individuals is strongly preferred.
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to develop partnerships and coordinate with multiple agencies.

Responsibilities

• Assist residents with identifying, applying for, and obtaining employment opportunities.
• Guide residents in creating resumes, completing job applications, and preparing for interviews.
• Connect residents with vocational training and certification opportunities.
• Operate and manage the OhioMeansJobs center for resident job searches and employment tracking.
• Maintain accurate records of residents’ interviews, certifications, employment placements, and vocational program participation.
• Organize and schedule in-house vocational programs, workshops, and employer visits.
• Transport residents to interviews, job fairs, or vocational training programs as needed.
• Coordinate interview scheduling and ensure residents are adequately prepared.
• Work closely with employers, training providers, and community agencies to expand job and vocational opportunities for residents.
• Bring external resources into the facility to provide job readiness workshops, vocational training, and other employment-related services.
• Maintain positive working relationships with internal staff and external partners.
• Communicate progress, challenges, and successes to the Vocation Manager.
• Attend and participate in scheduled meetings, trainings, and agency events.
• Follow all facility operational policies, procedures, and applicable regulatory requirements.
• Maintain strict confidentiality regarding resident information and program operations.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, prescription drug, behavioral health, life insurance plans, and wellness incentives.
• Retirement through Ohio Public Employees Retirement System (OPERS).
• Optional deferred compensation plans.
• Sick, vacation, personal leave, and paid holidays.
• Free Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) transportation.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree