Resource Navigation Specialist

POSITION: Resource Navigation Specialist

PAY RANGE: $21.23 – 25.22

LOCATION: This position serves DHS locations

STATUS: Full Time with Benefits

PROGRAM(S): Community Works Project (CWP)

Reports To: Resource Navigation Supervisor

REQUIREMENTS: Possess a valid driver's license and verification of current auto-insurance, and have full use of automobile during work hours.

GENERAL POSITION SUMMARY:

The Community Works Project (CWP) is a 3-agency (IRCO – Our Just Future – SEI) collaborative project providing job preparation and placement services to Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) participants who are participating in Job Opportunities Basic Skills (JOBS) program. CWP serves Department of Human Services (DHS) locations.

This position is expected to serve all DHS locations, during the DHS hours of business (with flexibility to meet and respond to participants’ needs outside those hours/locations on an exceptional basis). Resource Navigation Specialists at CWP are responsible for guiding their participants toward stabilization and self-sufficiency through individualized plans focused on job readiness and placement and assistance with referrals and navigation of services for other non-medical needs.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Provide workforce and stabilization case management to referred JOBS participants, including intakes, assessments, goal settings, addressing barriers, skill building activities, and referral to other non-medical services.
• Conduct comprehensive intakes for participants that build rapport, ensure the participants fully understand the program and its services, and put participants’ goals front and center in the planning process.
• Refer participants to employment and volunteer opportunities or guide them in creating their own opportunities in the community.
• Effectively utilize CWP partners’ leveraged resources to remove participants barriers to employment opportunities and increase their chances to become self-sufficient.
• Facilitate presentations by service providers for participants and CWP teams.
• Bring understanding and share resources from home agency and targeted community to ensure effective wrap-around service options for all CWP participants.
• Track participants’ attendance and activities through multiple database systems.
• Regularly communicate with DHS case managers on JOBS participant’s activities, progress and challenges through IM, TRACS, phone calls, emails, and regular meetings.
• Participate in trainings and meetings as required to ensure project outcomes achievement.
• Submit weekly and monthly reports on a strict timeline.

SECONDARY FUNCTIONS:

• When necessary, cover workload of colleagues in their absence.

• Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and committees to support CWP and agency’s goals.

• Other duties and responsibilities may be assigned.

JOB SPECIFIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience with case management, pre-employment activities and job search development, especially for people of color and other marginalized groups.

• Knowledge and/or experience of vocational and/or placement counseling for immigrant and refugee populations.
• Knowledge of the local job market and concerns of employers.
• Knowledge or willingness to learn about other services that meet participants’ needs.

KNOWLEDGE:

Education: Bachelor's Degree (4)

Experience: 1-2 years of experience is required (3)

Licensure, Certification:

Additional Language Required:

Computers: Require use of a computer and experience working with Microsoft Products including but not limited to Microsoft 365, Excel, Word, Outlook and PowerPoint. In addition this position specifically requires: Intermediate proficiency with Excel, Word, PowerPoint and Outlook. Must also be able to learn and use moderately complex databases. In addition this position specifically requires a reliable internet connection with the ability to handle databases; and reliable cell phone coverage.

SKILLS:

Communication:

Regular communication inside and outside the organization to exchange ideas and gather information (5)

Creativity:

Minimal need for the redesign of single focus process or procedure is needed (2)

EFFORT:

Mental:

There is an occasional need to assess risk as well as to make determinations about tasks and deadlines (4)

Physical:

Positions at this level require minimal physical effort such as light lifting, carrying or movement, etc. Physical capability involves use of office or equipment where some agility and hand eye coordination is needed (2)

RESPONSIBILITY:

Impact and Influence:

Minimal need or ability to analyze problem or concepts or make decisions on the information. Dollar amounts influenced would be considered small. Responsibility for the prudent use of assets does not extend beyond own work responsibilities. (2)

Work Independence:

Encouraged to suggest ways for handling these, but are not granted the latitude to take final action. (2)

Planning:

Positions at this level must consider own work and work of others. Planning processes will include determination of issues or obstacles and preferred courses of action. Ability to forecast for the near future (six to twelve months) is required (3)

Supervision:

Positions at this level are not responsible for any supervisory functions or responsibilities, but may occasionally be asked to orient and/or train new employees or volunteers. (1)

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Environment:

This level has a work environment that is usually well protected, free from hazards or obstacles. There is little element of personal risk or hazard Job conditions are usually comfortable, with only occasional issues, temperature change (2)

Schedule:

The work schedule is stable and does not fluctuate. (1)

HOW TO APPLY

Please have resume with cover letter and three professional references ready upon applying. References need not be written, simply the names and contact information for three people who are familiar with your work. At least one should be a supervisor or former supervisor. Open until filled. No phone calls please.