MFIP Counselor

MFIP Employment Counselor

Position Type:
Full-time

Location:

Saint Paul, MN

Travel Required:

Local (less than 25%)

Required

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in human services, social work, psychology, counseling or a related field; equivalent experience will also be considered

Min Experience Req: 2 years; lived experience will also be considered.

For over 118 years, Merrick Community Services has succeeded in its mission to champion thriving communities by eliminating barriers and providing essential resources to promote stability, independence, social and economic justice.

Merrick Community Services was founded on Saint Paul’s East Side in 1908 as the Christ Child Society of Saint Paul, in the tradition of an early 20th Century Settlement House, which provided essential services to new arrivals and immigrants and economically disadvantaged individuals and families. Today, Merrick Community Services (MCS) stands as one of the oldest nonprofit social service agencies in Ramsey County, with a history of being steadfast in assisting individuals and families overcome poverty and become self-sufficient.

The core programs of MCS are Nutrition and Senior Services, Employment and Career Services, and Family and Community Services.

The Employment Counselor supports families enrolled in the Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP) in achieving family stability and long-term economic self-sufficiency. Using a person-centered, strength-based, and culturally responsive approach, the counselor provides comprehensive case management, employment planning, and coaching to help participants overcome barriers, access resources, and secure sustainable employment. This role requires creativity, problem-solving, and a commitment to reducing racial and economic disparities in employment outcomes.

This position will report to the Senior Program Manager. A valid driver’s license, insurance, and access to reliable transportation are required.

• Manage a caseload of 70-100 MFIP eligible families
• Build open, honest and respectful relationships with participants that foster trust and engagement
• Conduct comprehensive intake and assessment to identify participants strengths, barriers, and employment goals
• Using the principles of Life Long Learning, develop individual employment plans using SMART goals and motivational interviewing techniques
• Provide intensive one-on-one coaching and job search assistance to clients, including resume development, interview preparation, and job readiness training
• Support participant with community resource navigation, education and training programs to overcome barriers to employment and support career advancement, goal setting, and family stability
• Support participants who have experienced domestic violence and other trauma with empathy, while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries
• Meet clients in office and in non-traditional office settings; this role may require meeting clients at their homes or public places
• Facilitate workshops that build job search and employment readiness skills
• Promote integration of services such as education, financial empowerment, mental health, and family supports

• Maintain accurate and timely case notes, participant data, and progress reports in Workforce One and other systems
• Track participant progress towards goals and outcomes, ensuring data quality and compliance with program requirements
• Prepare and submit reports as required
• Safeguard participant confidentiality and adhere to organizational and legal standards (e.g., HIPAA, data privacy, etc.)

• Participate in MCS fundraising events
• Represent MCS to the East Side community with area partners and others in a supportive, positive manner
• Develop and cultivate positive relationships with local businesses, faith communities, volunteers, and colleagues; and, to maintain relationships over time to the benefit of MCS
• Other duties as assigned

• Successful track record working with and engaging diverse populations, particularly BIPOC individuals and families, those in poverty, justice-involved…