Employment Specialist

Who is Saint Louis University? Founded in 1818, Saint Louis University is one of the nation's oldest and most prestigious Catholic universities. SLU, which also has a campus in Madrid, Spain, is recognized for world-class academics, life-changing research, compassionate health care, and a strong commitment to faith and service.

Employment Specialist, Transformative Workforce Academy

Job Description

Under general direction from the Transformative Workforce Academy (TWA) Program Director, the Employment Specialist is responsible for vocational and case management services for justice-involved jobseekers. This role requires regular travel to and entering various correctional facilities which may include Missouri prisons and the St. Louis County Justice Center well as work with local Probation and Parole officers. The Employment Specialist will work in collaboration with the TWA team and external community partners to ensure the best possible employment outcomes for TWA jobseekers. This is a full-time position that requires a mix of in-person and remote work.

Primary Job Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary point of contact for a caseload of jobseekers referred to TWA, providing trauma-informed vocational and case management services including intake interviews, employment preparation, written and video resume assistance, interview preparation, and job search counseling.

• Adapt TWA services to a correctional context, regularly meeting with individuals and groups of jobseekers in jails, probation and parole offices, and transitional housing locations.

• Determine potential employment matches for each jobseeker and liaise with employer partners to connect and advocate for jobseekers.

• Conduct regular check-ins with clients once employed, troubleshooting any job-related challenges and providing referrals to other community organizations as necessary.

• Evaluate jobseeker progress and complete necessary record keeping (electronic record system as appropriate).

• Serve as a collaborative member of the TWA team, including supporting the planning and execution of TWA's biannual virtual Second Chance Job Fairs.

• Complete other administrative duties as assigned.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to establish strong rapport and work patiently and compassionately with individuals facing many challenges concurrently.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

• Experience with resume writing.

• Ability to work collaboratively with internal and external partners.

• Ability to take initiative and work independently.

• Ability to prioritize and manage competing demands and deadlines.

• Analytical skills and attention to detail.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs and Google Workspace.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree and one year of experience OR five years of relevant work experience.

• Must possess valid driver's license and reliable transportation throughout employment with the ability to travel within 100 miles of the St. Louis Metropolitan area (mileage is reimbursed).

• Must be able to obtain and maintain applicable volunteer credentials to visit local jails and prisons throughout employment.

Recommended Qualifications

• Experience serving individuals in reentry or correctional settings such as prisons, jails, or transitional housing.

• Experience working with justice-involved individuals in a workforce development context, providing resume assistance and guidance on interviewing and job search skills.

• Experience working directly with persons who have mental health challenges, substance use, cognitive disabilities, or a dual diagnosis.

• Qualified justice-involved individuals are encouraged to apply.

Function

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

Saint Louis University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for the position applied for without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, military/veteran status, gender identity, or other non-merit factors. We welcome and encourage applications from minorities, women, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities (including disabled veterans). If accommodations are needed for completing the application and/or with the interviewing process, please contact Human Resources at 314-977-5847.