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Workforce Development Specialist

Goodwill Western Missouri and Eastern Kansas
United States, Missouri, Kansas City
Jul 01, 2025
Job Description Workforce Development Specialist Classification: Non-Exempt Reports To: Workforce Development Manager Supervises: This position has no direct supervisory responsibilities Organization Goodwill of Western Missouri & Eastern Kansas has a rich, 130-year history. Everyone knows Goodwill for our thrift stores, but few know about Goodwill Mission Services. The sale of unwanted items provides funds that stay local, helping us to support thousands of job seekers with barriers to employment. We believe in the Power of Work and are committed to helping people earn and keep jobs in the community. Summary The Workforce Development Specialist develops, coordinates, and implements individualized employment plans with community job seekers and provides support to Goodwill employees through the Stability & Retention Plan (SRP). The role includes comprehensive case management, offering supportive services, and addressing barriers to employment and retention. Essential Functions Develop individualized career plans in collaboration with clients, setting realistic goals and outlining steps to achieve them. Provide one-on-one counseling to help clients explore career options, address barriers, and build confidence. Assist clients in creating or updating resumes, writing cover letters, and preparing for job interviews. Teach effective job search strategies and provide resources for finding employment opportunities. Maintain accurate and detailed case notes of client interactions, supportive services, and incentives received. Engage in outreach efforts at Goodwill locations and community partner sites. Serve as the Success Coach for Goodwill Artemis Institute (GAI) students, providing guidance and support for those enrolled in the Bridge to Technology and Certified Manufacturing training programs, ensuring successful completion with outcomes of either job placement or advancement to further training. Support Goodwill employees by offering guidance through the Stability & Retention Plan, addressing barriers to job retention, and connecting them with supportive services as needed. Participate in New Hire Mission Orientation (NHMO) by informing new employees about available services, supportive resources, and how the Mission team can assist them. Follow up with new hires after NHMO to identify barriers impacting job retention and provide supportive services as needed. Conduct follow-up at 30-, 60-, and 90-day intervals to monitor job retention for both external clients and Goodwill employees, addressing any challenges that arise. Facilitate workshops on job readiness topics such as mindset, communication, and employer expectations, adapting content to meet client needs for successful job search and retention. Ensure data entry and documentation meet the compliance requirements of all applicable grants (e.g., DOC, COMBAT, and other funding sources) using systems like Salesforce, expense trackers, and client tracking sheets. Collect feedback from customers through surveys, interviews, or other methods to make recommendations for improving programs and services. Regularly update Workforce Development Manager on participant issues and concerns. Update job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities; reading professional publications, maintaining personal networks, participating in professional organizations, and enrolling in certification training. Collaborate on achieving monthly, quarterly, and yearly metrics and departmental goals. Always maintain strict confidentiality of participant information. Completes tasks in compliance with all company policies, procedures, and legal requirements. Complete special projects and assignments as needed. Attend staff meetings and other meetings as necessary. All other duties as assigned by the Workforce Development Manager. The ideal candidate will have: Bachelor's degree in a related field (rehabilitation, psychology, communication, education, adult education, human resources) or equivalent work experience. Strong critical thinking, problem-solving, and client service skills, with the ability to counsel clients and manage crisis situations effectively. Excellent oral and written communication skills, including interviewing techniques and the ability to engage diverse client populations. Solid understanding of marginalization and its impact on Goodwill participants, with a commitment to fostering an inclusive environment. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Windows OS, data entry systems, and internet research tools. Familiarity with client management software (e.g., Salesforce) preferred. Experience in workforce development, social services, or utilizing community resources, with the ability to build and maintain strong partnerships with external agencies. Strong time management skills, with the ability to handle multiple projects, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing priorities. Flexibility in work schedule, a willingness to cross-train, and adaptability to new tasks and challenges. Reliable transportation with a clean driving record, valid driver's license, and insurance to travel for business-related purposes. Work Environment This job operates in varied environments which may include store, warehouse, culinary, and office. Work environments will include indoor and outdoor locations with potential weather extremes. This role routinely operates office equipment. Physical Demand 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. This is an active role. The employee must have the ability to communicate verbally and apply active listening skills, the ability to lift 25 pounds, bend and possibly stand for prolonged periods of time as necessary. Position Type/Expected Hours of Work/Travel This is a full-time, non-exempt position. Office hours are generally Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., however some flexibility of the schedule is permissible with supervisor approval. As a non-exempt position, occasional night-time or weekend work may be required. Occasional day-time travel to supported locations is required. AAP/EEO Statement Goodwill of Western Missouri and Eastern Kansas is an equal opportunity employer.