Job Specification Details

The Job Center Specialist II works within the Vermont Department of Labor, Career Resource Center and provides case management services to jobseekers. Promotes and delivers comprehensive services offered through the VDOL's Career Resource Center to jobseekers and employers. Collaborates with partner organizations and agencies to promote an effective and seamless workforce-education, training and job placement system that will benefit both the individual client and employer community.

Work is performed under the direction and supervision of the VDOL Regional Manager and/or Supervisor, with the expectation that a significant amount of independent judgment will be exercised in the performance of the duties.

The Job Center Specialist II determines eligibility for federal and/or state funded programs and assists job seekers with significant barriers to employment to obtain and maintain employment on a long-term basis. With the goal of working toward securing full-time, unsubsidized employment for participants, JCS II will provide case management services, generally within one program area, but may also refer and/or co-enroll participant in multiple programs as appropriate. JCS II must be well-versed and knowledgeable in VDOL program resources and assistance, as well as programs of our partner agencies and organizations. Ensures that clients are co-enrolled in all programs for which they qualify, and works collaborative with VDOL case managers in other programs to assist and enroll the client into applicable programs, including, but not limited to, WIOA Adult, Youth, or Dislocated Worker; Trade (TAA); Veterans programs; other options such as programs funded by special grants, that lead to job training, credentials, certifications, and employment.

Administers formal and informal assessments to participants to identify skills, abilities, interests and barriers to employment and develop employment plans. Reviews and analyzes the results of assessments to identify and address specific training needs, discusses assessment with the participant and develops an individual employment plan to meet the identified needs of the individual.

Develops and maintains effective and cooperative relationships with community partners for the benefit of clients, job seekers and employers. Collaborates with community partners to co-case manage participants in training programs. Negotiates shared costs associated with training of participants.

Engages in outreach to local and regional businesses to promote VDOL services for employers. Identifies and reports information on recruitment and training needs of area employers, and serves as a resource for employers, with emphasis on connecting the employer to job-seekers and training opportunities. Provides specialized recruitment services for existing, new and expanding businesses including organizing, marketing and hosting job fairs and hiring events.

Documents all services and maintains accurate records in the method and manner determined by the WDD Director or Commissioner to ensure compliance with all state and federally mandated performance measures. Complies with all federal and state laws, policies and procedures regarding confidentiality of participant records.

Interviews clients who are often under significant personal and financial burden, and who may exhibit significant stress and anxiety and may exhibit uncooperative or angry behaviors. It is expected that JCS II staff will engage all clients in a manner that exhibits professionalism, sensitivity, fairness, tact and diplomacy, and helps clients understand the services available to them through VDOL programs. Supportive attitude and actions are expected to be demonstrated in dealing with clients.

Position is assigned to a regional office location, but there is an expectation for travel between multiple regional locations as assigned by the Department. Will include travel to employers' worksites, schools/technical centers and community partner meetings. May be required to attend evening meetings as assigned by supervisor. Valid driver's license and private means of transportation is required.

Ability to adhere to state and federal laws and regulations, and State and VDOL rules, regulations and policies

Ability to timely and effectively manage work tasks each day

Ability to effectively manage caseload to successful outcomes for clients Ability to demonstrate discretion, integrity and professionalism

Ability to adhere to strict confidentiality relating to client information

Ability to communicate effectively and professionally, both verbally and in writing

Ability to work collaboratively and respectfully with all VDOL employees, and with partner organizations, clients, and customers

Ability to work effectively and respectfully with persons from diverse backgrounds, including clients who may present significant barriers to employment

Ability to engage in concise and effective public speaking in order to facilitate workshops, engage in other presentations, and participate in or facilitate meetings

Ability to engage in active listening with clients and customers, and to make decisions fairly and objectively

Ability to exercise tact in dealing with customers who are under significant stress

Ability to analyze and utilize information and data, and to comprehend and implement procedures, policies and regulations

Ability to comprehend and adhere to directives from supervisors and managers, and to accept constructive feedback

Ability to develop and manage vocational employment plans

Significant knowledge of department, state, partners' and community resources available to clients

Significant knowledge of interviewing techniques, recruitment techniques, and local area economic and employment conditions

Knowledge of state and federal law regarding equal employment and anti-discrimination

Significant proficiency in computer applications that include email, internet, Excel, PowerPoint and other MS Office Suite programs.

Associate’s degree or higher in human resources field, public or business administration, or human services fields.

OR

Two (2) years or more experience in customer service, employment services, human services, human resources, or a closely related field.

n/a