Catholic Charities of Louisville (CCL) is the social-service arm of the Archdiocese of Louisville (ADOL). We provide help and create hope for the poor and vulnerable through a wide range of programs, assisting clients of all races, backgrounds and beliefs. Our service area includes 24 counties throughout Central Kentucky.

GENERAL SUMMARY:

The Employment Specialist (ES) works under the direction of the Employment Services Coordinator to assist refugees and other eligible clients in locating employment that meets the goals stated in the Family Self-Sufficiency Plan (FSP). The ES works with the client to overcome barriers to employment and coordinates job search and follow-up activities until the client has successfully completed the employment services component of the program. The ES works with both new arrivals and long-term clients. The ES maintains ongoing relationships with existing employers as well as searching for new employees who would provide jobs for clients. The ES is expected to work in partnership with the Case Management and Employment Teams and education staff of MRS to promote early employment and financial self-sufficiency for all eligible clients.

In keeping with the mission, vision, and Catholic identity of Catholic Charities of Louisville, the MRS Refugee Employment Specialist demonstrates the Welcome, Empower, and Strengthen values of the agency.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND TASKS:

1. Collaborate with the Case Management Team in client assessment, employment plan development, and establishing a system for job readiness activities.
2. Oversee client job search and assistance in locating positions that meet the employment goals, including referrals to appropriate openings, assistance with the interview and application process, assistance with pre-employment requirements such as obtaining necessary equipment, completing a physical exam, drug test, making childcare and transportation arrangements, etc.
3. Coordinates job development and placement activities with other Employment Specialists and schedules interpreters as needed.
4. Provides job orientations for clients.

5.      Develops new employers and maintains a list of the employers that work with Catholic Charities including contact names and phone numbers.

6.      Assists in obtaining documentation relating to job placements including paystubs and verification of wages.

7.      Responsible for documenting all substantial contact with clients in the case file and computer database programs.

8.      Reports to work regularly and on time.

9. Other duties as assigned.

EFFORT:

• Ability to sit and stand for extended periods of time.
• Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
• Ability to work under pressure.
• Ability to travel frequently within the community.
• Ability to accurately examine and analyze information.
• Must have good vision and hearing.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Bachelor’s degree in vocational services, Social Work, or related field or at least two years of experience in job placement, social work, or the provision of other services in the refugee community is required.

Reasonable accommodation may be provided for those who are able to perform the essential duties of the job. 

SPECIALIZED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE:

• Must be able to communicate verbally and in writing in an effective manner.
• Bilingual skills in Spanish/English are required.
• Must be people oriented and able to relate to varied ethnic populations.
• Must have good organizational and research skills.
• Must be able to multi-task and be detail oriented.
• Must have a valid driver’s license, an acceptable driving record, and be willing to use personal vehicle in driving to various locations within the service area.
• Public speaking experience preferred.
• Must have proficient PC skills including Microsoft Office and Google Suite
• The incumbent must be able to maintain the confidentiality of any information she/he encounters.
• Ability to read, write and understand the English language