Contingent - Workforce Engagement Specialist - SYEP

Position Summary

The Workforce Engagement Specialist – SYEP supports the preparation and implementation of the Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) by assisting with employer outreach, business engagement, and workforce development activities for both businesses and youth participants. This temporary, part‑time contingent position (up to 25 hours per week) is limited to the duration of the Summer Youth Employment Program and does not include County benefits.

• Assist with outreach to local businesses and employers participating in the Summer Youth Employment Program.
• Support onboarding and ongoing communication with employer partners.
• Maintain accurate employer contact information and participation records.
• Respond to employer inquiries in a professional and timely manner.

• Prepare and process employer-related documentation, agreements, and required forms.
• Assist with scheduling employer meetings, orientations, and site visits.
• Maintain electronic and paper files in compliance with County record-keeping standards.
• Provide general administrative and programmatic support to SYEP staff and participants.

• Enter, update, and verify employer and placement data in tracking systems and spreadsheets.
• Track job placements, worksite assignments, and employer participation metrics.l
• Assist with preparing routine reports and summaries for internal use and compliance purposes.
• Review data for accuracy and completeness.

• Coordinate with internal teams to support successful youth placements and employer satisfaction.
• Assist with program events, orientations, and employer engagement activities.
• Support special projects and process improvement initiatives as assigned.

This position does not have supervisory responsibilities.

• High school diploma or GED.
• Minimum of one (1) year of administrative, customer service, business support, or workforce-related experience.

• Experience working with employers, workforce development programs, or public‑sector initiatives.
• Familiarity with data tracking and reporting systems.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
• Professional demeanor and strong interpersonal skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and Outlook, and/or Google Workspace.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Work is performed in an office‑based or hybrid environment, as determined by departmental needs. May require occasional travel within the County to conduct employer site visits or attend program events.

• Ability to read and interpret program guidelines, policies, and procedures.
• Ability to prepare clear written correspondence and communicate effectively with employers, youth participants, and staff.
• Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations and track numerical data related to placements and employer participation.
• Ability to apply established policies and procedures to employer engagement and placement activities.

None required. A valid driver’s license may be required depending on assignment and worksite visit responsibilities.

The application must be completed online. Resumes cannot be used in place of the application. Selected candidates may be subject to drug screening, background screening, and reference checks. Please submit copies of any referenced credentials, and note that foreign education may need to be evaluated.

Howard County Government is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, and we are committed to a workplace that values diversity, equity, and inclusion. The County prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, ancestry, creed, national origin, disability status, genetics, marital status, military service, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

Requests for accommodations should be directed to the Office of Human Resources at Hiring Preference.

Employees in this category may not be eligible for all County benefits.