Placement Specialist; DC,PG,NOVA Remote

Function

The Employment Placement Specialist is responsible for assisting residents with employment needs. The position functions as a job service liaison for the program, networking with local business leaders, establishing commitments to employ residents, facilitating placements, and providing follow‑up. This position also provides vocational training assistance, individual and group counseling, and post‑release follow‑up relative to employment with the community.

Successful candidates must possess a Bachelor’s Degree in a related field and have two years of experience related to job development and placement assistance. Experience with corrections is preferred. Applicants may substitute an Associate’s Degree in a related field and three years of experience. The successful candidate must develop effective working relationships with the offender population, other service agencies, and the general public, provide training, prepare written reports, and maintain client documentation.

• Assesses needs of offenders as related to employment, vocational and/or educational needs.
• Develops and coordinates community resources.
• Serves as a liaison to local businesses.
• Participates in the intake, screening, and assessment procedures.
• Maintains offender and service records according to established procedures.
• Assists offenders by accessing computer‑based technology and resources.
• Provides training on proper dress and interview techniques.
• Develops an employment resource file.
• Assists offenders in obtaining and maintaining employment.
• Arranges and monitors on‑site training.
• Provides job coaching.
• Maintains communication with offenders’ employers and documents accordingly.
• Visits job sites to provide assistance to offenders and employers.
• Identifies potential employment opportunities for residents.
• Participates in staff meetings and training sessions, and assists in providing training.
• Communicates residents’ needs and progress with Resident Service Coordinators, employers, and collaborating agencies.
• Assists in employment readiness.
• Prepares weekly program reports on residents’ status and activity.
• Establishes and maintains a community resource and referral index.
• Provides assistance with locating employment job fairs on‑site or in the community.
• Performs employment verifications and maintains accurate communications with the OP Inmate Placement Administrator.
• Provides case management services as needed or directed.

• Required to safely operate a motor vehicle to transport oneself, consumers, and program supplies as necessary.
• Must be physically able to travel to assigned locations, stand, stoop, bend, reach, pull, push, lift, grasp, climb, talk, see, hear and perform basic and light home maintenance activities, and operate office equipment.
• Capable of moving and lifting light objects up to 30 pounds such as mail, supplies, files, and equipment.
• Able to operate office equipment requiring continuous or repetitive hand/arm movements.
• Can remain in a sitting position for extended periods of time.

• Helps residents re‑enter the workforce and community.
• Facilitates residents’ successful completion of the program.
• Ensures that residents’ vocational plans comply with program guidelines and release requirements.
• Guarantees documentation of residents’ services is completed in compliance with agency policies and release requirements.
• Promotes and maintains a positive public image for the program.
• Provides the community with information about the program and the employment potential of residents.
• Ensures compliance with contractual obligations.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.