Labor & Employment Specialist II; PROWD

Open to Colorado residents only. The posting remains open until 5:00 PM on Monday, July 13, 2026. This Labor/Employment Specialist II position is part of the Development Programs (WDP) unit in Denver County, focusing on re‑entry services for individuals exiting correctional facilities.

Responsibilities include assessing re‑entry needs, developing and implementing transition plans, researching community resources, providing linkages to other agencies, coordinating with federal parole officers, and delivering services in both individual and group settings. The position works closely with the Federal Bureau of Prisons, local workforce services, and community organizations to enhance public safety.

Pay range: hourly $28.59 – $41.84; biweekly pay $2,286.92 – $3,347.20; monthly $4,955.00 – $7,252.27. Hybrid work options are available; the employee must report to the Denver County address as directed by the supervisor.

• Strong retirement benefits through a PERA Defined Benefit Plan or PERA Defined Contribution Plan plus 401(k) and 457 plans.
• Medical and dental health plans.
• Employer‑subsidized Health Savings Account.
• Paid life insurance.
• Short‑ and long‑term disability coverage.
• 11 paid holidays per year plus vacation and sick leave.
• Benefit Hub state employee discount program.
• Motivate Me employee wellness program.
• Flexible schedules, training, and work‑life programs.
• Access to employer‑supported employee affinity spaces.
• RTD Eco Pass Commuter Program.
• Potential eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

• Five (5) years of relevant experience in an occupation related to this position, including work with past and currently incarcerated persons in probation, parole, correctional, or prison facilities and/or career development.
• OR a combination of related education and/or relevant experience totaling five (5) years.

• Demonstrated success in working with Adults In Custody (AIC) to assist their transition back into the community.
• Ability to coordinate with multiple organizations to provide career development, mental health, and social services.
• Knowledge and participation in multidisciplinary teams supporting AICs.
• Understanding of career development assessments, interest inventories, and other employment tools.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with individuals of varying education levels.
• Knowledge of effective outreach and recruitment strategies with justice‑involved individuals.
• Ability to facilitate meetings among service professionals.
• Able to construct and facilitate presentations to stakeholders, AICs, and service providers.
• Ability to research and present Labor Market Information to groups with varying education levels.
• Willingness to travel throughout the assigned region, including use of a state‑owned or personal vehicle.

• Administering assessments.
• Evaluating training and job readiness.
• Case management experience.
• Experience performing duties similar to those of a classified state employee.

• Must be a Colorado resident at the time of application.
• Must pass a thorough background check, Motor Vehicle Record check, and the E‑Verify process.
• Must travel to the assigned Federal Bureau of Prisons.
• Must pass a Federal Bureau of Prisons background check.

The State of Colorado believes that equity, diversity, and inclusion drive our success, and we encourage candidates from all identities, backgrounds, and abilities to apply. The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments and providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, medical condition related to pregnancy, creed, ancestry, national origin, marital status, genetic information, or military status (with preference given to veterans).

The Colorado Department of Labor and Employment is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals and will assist individuals with disabilities with reasonable accommodations throughout the application and interview process.

While a salary range is posted, the final salary offer will be determined by a comprehensive salary analysis considering education, experience, and comparable work.