Youth Services Specialist

Grant Associates•Brooklyn, NY

About The Position

The Youth Services Specialist provides individualized support and development-focused services to youth clients, especially Opportunity Youth ages 18–24. The role builds rapport and helps clients overcome barriers to employment, education, and training through mentorship, coaching, supportive-service connections, and career pathways. The position is part of the Pathways for Access to Careers and Employment (PACE) program, a career services initiative funded by NYC's Human Resources Administration for adults and youth ages 18 and older who receive public assistance. PACE provides individualized career planning, skills development, credential attainment, employment preparation, job placement, and retention services.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Minimum of 2–3 years of experience in workforce development, social services, case management, human resources, education, counseling, or a related field.
Experience working with diverse populations, including individuals facing employment or socioeconomic barriers.
Experience working with disconnected or vulnerable youth populations.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, Outlook, and Teams.
Ability to accurately enter data, track outcomes, generate reports, manage an active caseload, maintain accurate documentation, and use case management or database systems.
Strong coaching, communication, and interpersonal skills, including the ability to motivate clients toward employment and education goals.
Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, team-based environment and collaborate with internal staff and external partners.

Nice To Haves

College coursework or a degree in a related field, or equivalent relevant experience.
Bilingual ability in Spanish, Kreyol, Russian, or Mandarin.

Responsibilities

Conduct intake and needs assessments with youth participants ages 18–24 to determine employment readiness.
Develop action plans reflecting clients’ goals related to employment, education, and skill development.
Refer clients to employment and training opportunities and internal and external recruiting events.
Work with colleagues to match employer needs and job orders with jobseekers’ skills and qualifications.
Manage schedules for training, client assessments, and individual career advisement while meeting placement targets.
Maintain a large caseload and complete timely case notes for each client.
Assist clients with creating or revising resumes.
Review resumes and assess candidates’ eligibility for specific job openings.
Conduct workshops to build candidates’ skills and improve their employment prospects.
Enter data into databases and generate training reports.
Perform other duties as assigned.