Career Counselor, Cambridge Employment Program

ABOUT THE ROLE:

As part of a creative and collaborative team, the Career Counselor will provide individualized employment counseling services for Cambridge residents, aged 18 and older. Our team supports residents by demystifying the process of getting jobs and advancing in careers – with an emphasis on low-income residents and people of color at all levels of experience across a wide variety of occupations and industries. Patience, flexibility, and an affinity for working with racially and economically diverse residents are essential for this role.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various type of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.

• Determine employment needs of clients through intake assessments and orientations.
• Help clients develop action steps to achieve their employment goals, as well as identify necessary services and strategies.
• Assist clients with preparing resumes, cover letters and other job search documents.
• Assist clients with identifying and applying for appropriate jobs.
• Develop referral relationships with area adult education, training and employment programs, and make appropriate referrals.
• Develop familiarity with social service agencies that can support clients’ efforts to gain economic advancement and make appropriate referrals.
• Work as part of a team which includes but is not limited to the Adult Employment Director, Career Counselors and Job Developers.
• Maintain accurate records on all cases, and develop periodic summaries of caseload information, as required.
• Lead employment related workshops as needed.
• Attend occasional community events to disseminate information and conduct outreach.
• Other duties as assigned.

 Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.      

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education and Experience:

• At least three years demonstrated experience in employment and training, career counseling, social services or related field. Bachelors’ Degree in related field preferred. 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Experience working with adults to define and meet their employment goals
• Demonstrated success working with low-income clientele in multi-cultural settings
• Familiarity with current workforce needs and issues
• Familiarity with current tools and strategies for job search
• Strong ability to communicate orally and in writing
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as a member of a team         
• Commitment to anti-racism, diversity, equity, and inclusion. The City of Cambridge's workforce, like the community it serves, is diverse. Applicants must have the ability to work and interact effectively with individuals and groups with a variety of identities, cultures, backgrounds, and ideologies.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Familiarity with ETO case management software preferred.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Standard office environment with fluorescent lighting, carpeted floors and air conditioning.
• This position may be eligible for hybrid work under the City’s Telework Policy depending on operational needs.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Ability to access, input, and retrieve information from a computer. Answer telephones and maintain multiple files. May require minimal lifting of up to 10 pounds.