Career Services Specialist

Career Service Specialist

In keeping with the Mission Statement and Principles of Covenant House, part of the Covenant House international network, is committed to giving homeless youth a safe haven, absolute respect, unconditional love, and a path to lasting independence through housing programs and providing a continuum of care through supportive services. The Career Services Specialist is responsible for providing comprehensive career development services to youth at CHT. This role focuses on helping youth develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to secure employment and pursue long-term career goals. The Career Services Specialist will support youth in developing job readiness skills, assist with job searches, and provide ongoing support in achieving educational and employment goals. This position requires the use of trauma-informed care principles, ensuring that all interactions with youth are conducted in a respectful, supportive, and non-judgmental manner.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide one-on-one career counseling to youth, assessing their skills, interests, and career aspirations.
• Assist youth in identifying and setting realistic career goals based on their interests, strengths, and available opportunities.
• Offer job readiness training, including resume writing, interview preparation, and professional communication skills.
• Support youth in exploring career pathways and opportunities, including job placement, internships, apprenticeships, and vocational training programs.
• Implement and maintain the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) model of supported employment within the career services program.
• Ensure the IPS principles, including rapid job search, individualized job placements, and ongoing support, are adhered to and fully integrated into program practices.
• Support youth in finding competitive employment opportunities, including full-time, part-time, and seasonal roles.
• Assist youth in overcoming barriers to employment through personalized support, including job coaching, skills training, and follow-up services.
• Assist youth in finding job opportunities by identifying job leads, connecting with employers, and coordinating job fairs or hiring events.
• Help youth with job applications, preparing for interviews, and developing job search strategies.
• Establish and maintain relationships with local employers, businesses, and community organizations to create job placement opportunities for youth.
• Coordinate with employers to support youth in securing internships, employment, or apprenticeships.
• Facilitate workforce development workshops and training programs, including soft skills, financial literacy, and time management.
• Ensure that workshops are trauma-informed, engaging, and appropriate for the needs of youth participants.
• Work with youth to identify and address barriers to employment, including transportation, childcare, and lack of work experience.
• Provide guidance on job retention, workplace communication, and career advancement strategies.
• Collaborate with case managers, shelter staff, and external partners to provide comprehensive services to youth, including housing, education, and employment support.
• Coordinate access to resources such as transportation assistance, work attire, and other supports needed for successful employment.
• Connect youth with community resources for further education, skill-building opportunities, and career advancement.
• Utilize trauma-informed care principles in all interactions with youth, ensuring that services are delivered in a safe, respectful, and non-judgmental manner.
• Create a supportive, empathetic environment where youth feel empowered to make decisions and take steps toward their career goals.
• Be mindful of the challenges that youth may face as a result of trauma and provide individualized support tailored to each youth's needs.
• Track youth progress in meeting career goals and employment milestones, maintaining accurate and up-to-date records.
• Document all interactions, job search activities, and progress in the appropriate systems (e.g., HMIS, case management systems).
• Submit regular reports to leadership, funders, and external stakeholders regarding career services outcomes, including employment placements and barriers addressed.
• Provide ongoing support to youth after job placement to ensure success in the workplace and assist with any challenges that may arise.
• Attend local career fairs, networking events, and meetings with community organizations to promote the shelter's services and build relationships with potential employers.
• Engage with local businesses and partners to create job opportunities tailored to youth in the shelter, including entry-level, part-time, and seasonal positions.
• Connect youth with necessary community resources, including medical care, mental health services, substance use treatment, education programs, employment opportunities, and legal assistance.
• Facilitate referrals to external service providers, ensuring timely access to critical services such as housing, healthcare, and educational support.
• Assist youth in obtaining essential documentation (e.g., identification, social security card) and applying for public benefits, such as food stamps, Medicaid, or housing subsidies.
• Collaborate with internal staff, including housing specialists, mental health professionals, and employment counselors, to provide holistic care to youth.
• Participate in regular team meetings and case reviews, sharing updates on youth progress and identifying strategies to address any barriers to success.
• Work closely with community partners, such as social service agencies, healthcare providers, and legal advocates, to ensure comprehensive support for each youth.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date case files, documenting all case management activities, assessments, progress notes, and service referrals.
• Ensure compliance with confidentiality standards, protecting the privacy of youth and maintaining secure records in accordance with agency policies and legal requirements.
• Track and report on client outcomes, goals, and service delivery, ensuring data is entered into the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS), Efforts to Outcomes (ETO) and other relevant systems.
• Maintain positive, professional relationships with community partners, stakeholders, and service providers to expand the network of resources available to youth.
• Represent the agency at community meetings, trainings, and events, advocating for youth homelessness issues and resources.
• Engage in regular self-care practices to manage the emotional demands of the role.
• Participate in ongoing training, workshops, and professional development opportunities to stay informed about best practices in trauma-informed care and human trafficking prevention.

Qualifications: Education & Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Psychology, Human Services, Education, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of 2-3 years of experience providing career services, job coaching, or employment readiness support to at-risk youth or populations.
• Knowledge and experience with workforce development programs, job readiness training, and career counseling.
• Understanding of trauma-informed care principles and experience working with youth who have experienced homelessness or other forms of trauma.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage youth and build trusting, professional relationships.
• Knowledge of local job markets, employers, and community resources that support youth employment.
• Ability to facilitate workshops and provide individualized coaching in a compassionate and supportive manner.

Skills & Abilities:

• Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks, track youth progress, and maintain accurate records.
• Experience in developing and maintaining relationships with employers, community partners, and educational institutions.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, providing feedback and collaborating with other staff to ensure holistic support for youth.

Working Conditions:

• Work will be performed both in office settings and on-site at the shelter.
• Potential exposure to challenging behavioral situations or high-stress environments, requiring the ability to maintain composure and apply trauma-informed practices.

Why Join Us:

Covenant House Texas offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities. The Career Services Specialist is essential in supporting youth at CHT in their journey toward employment and career success. By providing job readiness training, career counseling, and connecting youth to resources and opportunities, the Career Services Specialist plays a critical role in helping youth build a path toward stability and independence. The role requires a compassionate, trauma-informed approach to support youth in overcoming barriers and achieving their career goals.