Job Developer

Job Developer

Way Finders is a 2024 Top Workplaces for Nonprofit organization, named as an employer of choice because our employees said so!

At Way Finders, we are passionately invested in lifting up the region’s people, places, and systems. Though our team performs a wide variety of functions, we are united by our shared mission: to build and advocate for a thriving and equitable region; to improve the stability and economic mobility of families and individuals; and to develop and manage a robust range of safe, affordable housing options.

Interested in joining our team of dedicated professionals? Way Finders is currently seeking a full-time Job Developer. The Job Developer furthers our mission by establishing and maintaining activities to develop, locate, and secure job openings for clients, and by marketing programs and coordinating job resources in the community.

Benefits include:  20 days of accrued paid time-off in year one | 15+ holidays annually | Health, dental, and vision insurance options FROM DAY ONE | Educational assistance | Medical Reimbursement Account | Dependent Care Account | 403(b) retirement plan with employer match | Life insurance | Short-term and long-term disability insurance | Transportation benefits | Employee Assistance Program | Annual staff picnic!

Wage starts between $21.50 and $24.25 per hour depending on equivalent qualifications. Interested applicants must submit a resume and cover letter; applications will be accepted until the position is filled.  CORI/MVR.

The candidate may work in a hybrid-remote capacity post-training period but must live within commutable distance.  Onsite work and meetings throughout Western Massachusetts are regularly expected.

Responsibilities include:
•    Promote and develop employment and on-the-job training opportunities for program participants; assist employers in revising standards which exclude applicants from jobs
•    Conduct, document, and communicate quarterly assessments of clients’ skills, needs, and potential barriers to employment, identifying next steps for future success
•    Initiate and maintain professional relationships with a variety of business and industry representatives and job placement/training agencies to promote programs for participant placement; make cold calls to potential employers; explain the benefits and employment support services provided by program(s) to employers, including addressing employer’s special needs
•    Provide employment support to clients weekly, or as contractually expected, through the development and review of employment plans that identify strengths, set achievable goals, and maximize self-sufficiency
•    Research internet, newspapers, agencies, and other resources for job leads; locate jobs for participants who have successfully completed training programs; collect data from employers related to job orders including job requirements and skills; match job skills with applicant qualifications; refer qualified applicants to employers and conducts necessary follow-up when applicants are placed in positions
•    Maintain timely, complete, and accurate case files; keep accurate, updated data of employer relationships; coordinate efforts with appropriate resources and stakeholders, including One Stop Career Centers and the Secure Jobs Initiative; enter and oversee essential tracking and coordination of required program documents
•    Attend virtual and in-person job fairs, as appropriate and assigned 
•    Travel to various locations throughout Western Massachusetts, including Hampden, Hampshire and Franklin Counties during the work week to cultivate relationships with area employers and providers, as well as connect with program participants
•    Assess feedback, positive and negative, from employee/employer during employment period; make recommendations as per program processes
•    Provide technical guidance, training and assistance to other program staff on program guidelines, processes, resource availability, and in the resolution of involved or complex matters
•    Establish and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with internal staff and departments, community groups, funding sources, and other workforce development agencies or community agencies
•    Proactively identify and inform program management of any issues that may adversely affect the department or organization

Requirements include:
•    3 years' equivalent experience in workforce development or a related role, with 1 year as a field specialist; a combination of experience plus an Associate degree may be a substitute
•    Able to effectively and professionally communicate (speaking, listening) with diverse populations
•    Bilingual (English/Spanish/Haitian-Creole/Other) skills preferred, but not required
•    Demonstrated ability with Microsoft Office applications, and comfort learning new technologies
•    Ability to assess priorities, organize, and operate in a flexible manner while retaining a high level of attention-to-detail 
•    Ability to work both independently and as a member of a team, with the capacity to communicate effectively with diverse individuals
•    Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record; reliable vehicle
•    CORI

Way Finders is an Equal Opportunity Employer that seeks a diverse staff in order to reflect our community and those we serve. Qualified individuals from diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. This position is available to all without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, disability, age, gender or gender identity, sexual orientation, political affiliation, or veteran status. We provide reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals.