General Summary
The Training and Career Advisor supports individuals in obtaining employment and occupational training by providing comprehensive career services, eligibility determinations, and ongoing case management under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) and Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) programs. The position assists unemployed, underemployed, and career-transitioning individuals in overcoming barriers and achieving sustainable employment outcomes. Reporting to the Workforce Services Manager, the Advisor independently applies complex federal, state, and local regulations to determine eligibility, authorize services, and ensure program compliance. The role requires strong analytical skills, sound judgment, and effective communication while collaborating with internal teams, community partners, employers, and training providers to deliver high-quality workforce services.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The Training and Career Advisor performs duties across multiple functional areas, including intake, career services, training services, rapid response, and trade adjustment assistance, based on assigned units and departmental needs.
Outreach, Recruitment, and Community Engagement • Assists with participant recruitment activities and conducts WIOA/TAA program presentations at orientations, information sessions, and community events. • Represents the Workforce Development program at outreach locations and community-based organizations to promote available services.
Multi-Site Service Delivery • Travels between Workforce Development Office locations and access points throughout Kane, Kendall, and DeKalb Counties to ensure consistent, equitable service delivery.
Intake and Eligibility Assessment • Screens applications, collects, and verifies eligibility documentation, and schedules intake appointments. • Conducts comprehensive intake interviews to assess program eligibility, employment history, education, skills, and barriers. • Determines appropriate program enrollment and assigns participants to the correct Workforce Services Unit. • Refers participants to community resources for needs not addressed through WIOA or TAA programs.
Career and Job Seeker Services • Conducts individualized assessments to identify career goals, skills, and barriers to employment. • Develops and updates Individual Employment Plans (IEPs). • Provides individual and group career counseling, including career exploration, goal-setting, and action planning. • Facilitates or coordinates career readiness workshops, résumé development, interviewing, job search strategies, networking, and professional conduct. • Maintains knowledge of labor market information, high-demand occupations, and local industry trends. • Coordinates supportive services, such as transportation, childcare, housing assistance, and related resources. • Reviews and evaluates training and supportive service requests for eligibility, suitability, and compliance. • Assists with job search activities, job matching, and application support. • Collaborates with Business Services staff to connect participants with employer opportunities. • Maintains a caseload of approximately 50 or more participants. • Conducts monthly case management and documents all services, outcomes, and contacts in required data systems. • Provides required follow-up services for participants who enter employment.
Training Services Administration • Assists participants in identifying training aligned with career objectives and labor market demand. • Verifies training eligibility through the Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL). • Develops Individual Training Plans (ITPs), including training selection, timelines, and budgets. • Authorizes and manages Individual Training Accounts (ITAs). • Coordinates with training providers and financial aid offices to support participant enrollment and access to financial resources. • Monitors participant training progress through regular contact and documentation. • Authorizes and documents supportive services necessary for training retention and completion. • Maintains ongoing relationships with training providers, educational institutions, employers, and community partners.
Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) Services • Delivers required TAA services in compliance with U.S. Department of Labor and Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) standards, policies, and reporting requirements.
Rapid Response • Supports Rapid Response activities for employers and affected workers. • Assists with documentation and data entry in the state Rapid Response tracking system.
Quality Assurance and Compliance • Maintains accurate, timely, and complete participant records. • Monitors engagement, retention, job placement, wage progression, and program outcomes. • Assists with corrective actions, program monitoring, responses, and technical remediation efforts. • Ensures compliance with federal, state, and local policies and procedures.
Program and Operational Support • Supports daily operations across Workforce Development Office locations. • Participates in special projects, pilot initiatives, and continuous improvement efforts as assigned.
Other Duties as Assigned
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
Minimum of two (2) years of experience in workforce development, human services, education, business, or a related field. Ability to prioritize tasks, manage time effectively, meet deadlines, and achieve performance benchmarks. Demonstrated ability to interpret and apply complex program regulations, policies, and procedures. Ability to effectively manage and support a diverse caseload to achieve successful outcomes. Knowledge of service delivery models, case management practices, and workforce development concepts. Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to engage job seekers, colleagues, employers, and community partners.
EDUCATION AND WORK EXPERIENCE
Bachelors degree or Associate degree with a minimum of two (2) years of direct customer service, workforce development, or grant-related experience.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS OF THE ESSENTIAL FUNCTION
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
EQUIPMENT USED TO PERFORM ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
WORKING CONDITIONS WHILE PERFORMING ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Normal office environment where there is no physical discomfort or exposure to hazards due to temperature, dust, noise, and the like.
REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS
Reports to Workforce Services Manager Directs Work of None Open until filled