Workforce Development Specialist

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST Location :

• On-site – Lake Elsinore, CA Schedule : Part-Time, to start (Hours Vary) Compensation : $31.00 / hr Reports To : Reentry Program Manager Position Summary The Workforce Development Specialist supports justice-involved participants in building the skills, confidence, and stability needed to obtain and maintain employment.
• This role requires strong experience in workforce development, job coaching, employer Development, and vocational support.
• The Workforce Development Specialist provides individualized career planning, job readiness training, and employment navigation while developing partnerships with employers, training programs, and community agencies.
• This position aligns with the mission of The Happier Life Project and the requirements of the Adult Reentry Grant (ARG).
• Services are delivered using trauma-responsive, person-centered practices, including Motivational Interviewing to help individuals explore their readiness for change in a supportive and nonjudgmental way.   Key Responsibilities Participant Development Conduct employment assessments to identify strengths, barriers, skills, history, educational and vocational goals.
• Build rapport with participants through empathy, consistency, and trauma-responsive development.
• Provide support and encouragement to help participants stay engaged in the workforce development process.
• Maintain regular contact with participants through phone, in-person meetings, and community-based visits.
• Workforce Development and Career Planning Assist participants with developing individualized employment plans.
• Support job searches, resume development, interview preparation, and workplace readiness.
• Provide coaching on communication, time management, conflict resolution, and professionalism.
• Identify opportunities for vocational training, certification programs, apprenticeships, and education pathways.   Accompany participants to interviews, orientations, or training events when needed.
• Employer Development and Partnership Development Identify and cultivate relationships with employers willing to hire justice-involved individuals.
• Provide employers with program information, incentives, and ongoing support.
• Coordinate with workforce programs, training providers, and community partners to expand opportunities.
• Serve as a point of contact for addressing workplace concerns and supporting job retention.
• Group Facilitation Facilitate groups, workshops, and workforce readiness classes as assigned.
• Provide structured group instruction on job readiness, soft skills, and employment expectations.
• Use Motivational Interviewing techniques and trauma-responsive approaches to support participation.
• Tracking and Documentation Document all workforce-related contacts, services, referrals, and updates in the EHR.
• Ensure all documentation follows BSCC and THLP standards, including PIP formatting.
• Track employment outcomes such as job placement, wages, retention, training completion, and barriers.
• Complete all required logs, reports, and updates within assigned timelines.
• Program Responsibilities Attend case conferencing meetings, team huddles, trainings, and supervision.
• Participate in outreach events, resource fairs, and partner presentations as assigned.
• Provide education and support to the team regarding workforce development practices.
• Support the Program Manager and Lead Integrated Care Navigator with data, reporting, and program operations.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support program goals and operations   Required Qualifications Minimum two years of experience in workforce development, job coaching, or a related field.
• Experience working directly with the justice-involved population.
• Strong communication and coaching skills.
• Knowledge of local employers, workforce programs, vocational training, and community resources.
• Experience developing resumes, coaching interviews, and supporting job placement.
• Proficient in electronic documentation and data entry.
• Valid California driver’s license, reliable transportation, and proof of insurance.
• Ability to work in person with flexibility for some evenings or weekends.
• Preferred Qualifications Associate degree or higher in business, human services, psychology, sociology, or a related field.
• Bilingual English and Spanish.
• Lived experience with justice involvement, recovery, housing instability, or reentry.
• Knowledge of Medi-Cal, SDOH tools, and evidence-based employment practices.
• Work Environment This is an in-person role based at the THLP office, employer sites, training facilities, and community partner locations.
• The Workforce Development Specialist must be available to support participants in both office and field settings.
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