Career Planner

Accountability:

The Career Planner will work with program participants as they enroll in the Workforce Development Services, including case management, individual planning, support, and access to services on an on-going basis. The Career Planner will coordinate a multi-functional team to support participants, ensure success with employment and education outcomes, provide follow-up, documentation, reporting and assist with assigned services, records, reports and program development. They will work collaboratively with program and community partners.

Responsibilities & Essential Functions:

Participant Management

• Work with participants utilizing a strengths-based approach to provide information for informed decisions and completion of individualized service strategies.
• Counsel, encourage and motivate participants and provide case management on an on-going basis.
• Utilize and discuss assessment and interview results with participants to collaboratively determine the support and services needed for participant success.
• Coordinate eligibility, secure required documentation, maintain participant file, and conduct file reviews.
• Assess program participant strengths and needs and provide guidance and assistance with training and employment goals.
• Conduct ongoing career counseling activities to establish appropriate individual education and employability for participants.
• Monitor and document participants’ participation and progress toward employment and education goals.
• Show flexibility and tolerance in working with participants with barriers and diverse backgrounds.

Collaboration and Community Partnerships

• Make appropriate resource referrals for both internal and external services, provide follow-up services and track outcomes.
• Work collaboratively with Business Service Specialist and job coaches to place participants in Work based learning, as well as monitor success.
• Keep informed of local employment needs and opportunities.
• Find innovative solutions to customer and partner challenges and exhibit patience and compassion in dealing with issues.

Administrative

• Become familiar with policies, procedures, and guidelines in planning and implementing services and ensure compliance with all state and federal guidelines.
• Maintain confidentiality and protect customers’ personal Identifying Information (PII) as required by law.
• Maintain participant files in compliance with program requirements and guidelines.

The above-listed responsibilities are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities or duties required. Incumbents will be expected to perform other duties as assigned.

Environment:

The work is conducted at The Workforce Connection Centers in Rockford with some travel to local schools, worksites, and community locations. Work involves frequent interaction with the public. Hours are primarily daytime hours, but on occasion, can include evening and/or weekend hours. The environment is typically climate-controlled and may include moderate noise from conversations, phones, and office equipment. The role requires regular computer use, and occasional movement throughout the building to support program needs.

Sensory and Physical Requirements:

Ability to efficiently and effectively perform all functions of the job. Ability to clearly communicate program details and information to both funders and the public.

Characteristic Functions:

• Professional and friendly approach to create a welcoming atmosphere.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Ability to create innovative solutions for job seekers.

Principal Challenges:

• Working with diverse staff and customers.

Disclaimer:

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. The employee will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by the employee's supervisor. Requirements are representative of the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, and/or abilities to perform this job successfully. The incumbent will possess the abilities or aptitude to perform each duty proficiently. All requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate persons with disabilities. Goodwill may exclude individuals who represent a direct threat or significant risk to the health and safety of themselves or other employees.

Goodwill of Northern Illinois is an equal opportunity employer.

This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise. The employment relationship is at will.

Qualifications & Basic Job Requirements:

• A combination of education and relevant work experience that aligns with the duties of this position.
• Demonstrated ability to work with individuals with barriers to employment and understand and communicate with diverse groups.
• The ability to motivate and assist program participants.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills and high attention to detail.
• High customer service focus.
• Functional use of Microsoft applications such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook.
• Bilingual with Spanish language highly desired.

Benefits

• Health & Wellness: Medical, dental, vision insurance, basic and voluntary life insurance as well as short-term disability and employee assistance program.
• Financial Security: Competitive salary, retirement plans with employer discretionary match, and bonus opportunity.
• Work-Life Balance: Paid time off, and flexible schedule.
• Professional Growth: Training programs, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement opportunities.
• Perks & Extras: Employee discounts, and a supportive, inclusive workplace.