Youth Workforce Specialist - Home Youth Services

Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency•Salem, OR

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The Youth Workforce Specialist develops, implements, and oversees workforce development programs for youth. The role facilitates employment-readiness training, career exploration, coaching, mentorship, and job-placement assistance while building relationships with community partners, employers, and educational institutions. The position also supports youth in addressing barriers to employment and connects them with appropriate resources. The role offers hands-on experience, growth opportunities, and professional development. This is an on-site position. The stated schedule is Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; the posting also notes that variable shifts, including early mornings, evenings, and weekends, may be required. The work environment may involve close quarters and frequent interaction with youth experiencing homelessness, substance use disorders, severe and persistent mental illness, or unpredictable behavior.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in education, social services, workforce development, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Two years of experience in workforce training, youth programming, career coaching, or a related field.
Valid driver's license, an insured vehicle available for work use, and a satisfactory driving record for the previous three years.
Pass the MWVCAA background screening and Oregon Department of Human Services criminal background check.
Pass pre-employment and random drug/alcohol screenings; the posting also specifies a pre-employment drug screening test.
Obtain Basic Life Support/First Aid Certification within the first 30 days of hire.
Strong understanding of youth workforce development principles and best practices.
Ability to build relationships with employers, community organizations, and schools.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office, videoconferencing platforms, and digital learning tools.
Strong organizational, communication, and time-management skills.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
Ability to drive frequently, including Agency vehicles with youth passengers; remain calm and regulate emotions under pressure; and meet the role's vision, hearing, mobility, and manual-dexterity demands.
Frequently lift or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift or move up to 50 pounds.

Nice To Haves

Experience developing and facilitating job-readiness training for young people.
Experience working with people experiencing homelessness or at risk of becoming homeless; preference is given to applicants with this experience.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement workforce development programs aligned with youth needs and employment opportunities.
Provide job-readiness training, career coaching, and mentorship to youth participants.
Conduct workshops to help youth develop skills needed to enter the workforce.
Assist youth with resumes, job applications, and interview skills.
Establish partnerships with local businesses, community organizations, and schools to support job placements and internship opportunities.
Coordinate and track youth enrollment, participation, and program outcomes.
Develop and maintain a calendar of workforce development activities, workshops, and employer engagement events.
Stay current on labor market trends, career pathways, and workforce best practices.
Monitor and evaluate program effectiveness, gather feedback, and make improvements as needed.
Advocate for youth employment opportunities in the community.
Support participants in overcoming employment barriers and connect them with necessary resources.
Perform other reasonably related duties as assigned by the immediate supervisor or management.