Position Title: Employment Specialist FLSA Code: Exempt
Department: Jobs Plus Report to: Area Manager

Position Overview
Founded in 1971, Centers for New Horizons, Inc. (Centers) is a nonprofit organization that assists
children, youth, and families to become self-reliant. With 200+ full-time staff, most of whom live in or near its service communities, Centers provides programs in seven locations throughout the Bronzeville and Riverdale communities of Chicago's Southside that reach over 1,000 individuals daily

Position Description
The Employment Specialist provides a variety of education and employment counseling, referral, placement and/or related services to eligible CHA- Jobs Plus participants residing in the Dearborn Homes. Maintains client documentation by completing forms necessary for clients to maintain compliance status, compiling progress reports, and entering information into a database.
Jobs Plus Employment Specialist are responsible for providing one-on-one coaching sessions and case management support to participants and adhering to all CHA implementation requirements.

Position Function

Qualifications
Completion of a directly related degree from an accredited institution/university or equivalent combination of training and experience. At least 5 years of work experience that can be demonstrated to be applicable to the duties listed in the job description. Completion of a Job Development or Workforce Development certification training preferred.

Essential Responsibilities
Report daily to office located within the Dearborn Homes development.
Report absences within department procedures
Attend and participate in required meetings (i.e., all‐agency meetings, department/program meetings, supervisor meetings, etc.)
Manage work time to meet needs of internal and external customers, stakeholders and individuals receiving services
Expands knowledge of departmental/agency operations
Participates in performance review and personal/professional growth

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Extensive knowledge of occupations, job skills, and labor market trends, community resources and vocational services that impact public housing residents. Knowledge and understanding of job referral and placement procedures. Knowledge of funder requirements
Excellent communicator, verbal and written, to individuals and groups.
Must have moderate proficiency in keyboarding or willingness to receive additional training as needed to improve speed and accuracy.
Ability to communicate effectively and project a professional image when giving and taking information in writing, in person, and over the phone.
Ability to work accurately with close attention to detail.
Ability to maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.
Flexible and creative. Patience and compassion for consumers.
Ability to work with co-workers, customers, and outside agencies professionally and tactfully while exhibiting a professional, businesslike appearance and demeanor.