Career In Jobs in Freeport, IL (NOW HIRING)

CAREER SERVICES SPECIALIST

Highland Community College seeks a Career Services Specialist to join our Student Services team. This full-time position provides administrative and technical support for Career Services programs, helping students develop career readiness skills, connect with employment opportunities, and achieve successful workforce outcomes. If you enjoy supporting student success, collaborating with employers, and providing exceptional customer service in a dynamic educational environment, we encourage you to apply!

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist with the Student Worker Program by determining eligibility, processing hiring paperwork and assignment forms, maintaining student records, monitoring budgets, and supporting both Federal Work-Study and institutional funding programs.
• Oversee and assign work to Career Services and Advising student workers.
• Provide administrative support for Career Services operations, including employer relations, internship development, and job placement initiatives.
• Support outreach efforts with internal and external stakeholders to expand career and employment opportunities for students.
• Assist with the maintenance and utilization of Handshake and other career management systems.
• Coordinate job postings, social media communications, workshops, classes, and employer engagement activities.
• Organize and support special events, including Career Fairs, mentor programs, and other on-campus career-related activities.
• Maintain accurate data, records, files, and reporting systems related to Career Services and the Student Worker Program.
• Gather, enter, and analyze information for reports, forms, and other departmental documents.
• Meet with students, alumni, and community members to discuss career assessment results through various communication methods.
• Assist students with resume and cover letter development.
• Provide outstanding customer service to students, employees, alumni, and area employers.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

What We're Looking For:

Education and Experience:

• Associate's degree and one (1) year of experience in an office, administrative support, or customer-focused position; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
• Experience in higher education, student services, career services, workforce development, or employer engagement is preferred.

Skills and Knowledge:

• Knowledge of English usage, grammar, spelling, punctuation, and vocabulary.
• Knowledge of data collection, reporting, and utilizing information to support informed decision-making.
• Knowledge of principles and practices for working with a diverse student population.
• Knowledge of computer operations and common software applications.
• Knowledge of project and time management principles and practices.
• Knowledge of report preparation and document formatting.
• Knowledge of federal and state privacy laws related to student records and information.
• Knowledge of customer service principles and best practices.
• Skill in operating office equipment, computers, and software applications.
• Skill in composing professional correspondence, reports, forms, and other documents.
• Skill in providing effective and professional customer service.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to actively listen and communicate with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with students, employees, employers, and community partners.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining accuracy and professionalism.

Why Join Highland Community College?

• Make a meaningful impact by supporting students' career exploration, workforce readiness, and employment success.
• Build relationships with students, alumni, employers, and community partners.
• Contribute to career development initiatives that help strengthen the regional workforce.

Salary & Benefits:

• Salary Range: $17.57 - $26.35 per hour
• Comprehensive benefits package. Details available at www.highland.edu/employment.

How to Apply:

Interested applicants can apply online at www.highland.edu/employment. Applications are not complete until the following materials are submitted:

• Online application
• Cover letter
• Resume
• Unofficial transcripts
• Contact information for three professional references

For alternative application methods or questions, contact Human Resources at 815-599-3426. Applications will be accepted until the position has been filled.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

Highland Community College is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applications from veterans, minorities, individuals with disabilities, and other diverse groups are strongly encouraged.