Youth Employment Specialist chez Catholic Social Services (CSS)

This Youth Employment Specialist is responsible for supporting eligible refugee and immigrant youth clients as they explore career pathways, gain work-based learning experiences, and build the foundational skills necessary to improve their long-term economic self-sufficiency. The Youth Employment Specialist (YES) will be based in Anchorage, and will provide statewide support, leveraging remote service delivery platforms to extend services to youth in Wasilla, Delta Junction, and other communities across Alaska. This position will be instrumental in identifying meaningful employment and learning opportunities, assisting youth with resume building, job readiness training, and initial job placements.  

CSS is a Catholic human and social services agency and behavioral health care provider that welcomes people of all faiths through its programs and employment. We provide help for our Alaskan neighbors through a variety of supportive service programs, including emergency shelter, food stability, housing, case management, and refugee assistance. CSS empowers individuals and families on their path to permanent stability, creating thriving communities for all. Located in Anchorage, Alaska, CSS is a nationally accredited organization through the Council on Accreditation (COA), which recognizes that CSS provides high quality services that meet best practice standards in the social service field. 

Mission: To promote the physical, spiritual and mental welfare of persons in need in the community. This mission is achieved by:

• Offering charitable assistance to those in need, especially persons who are poor
• Developing and conducting programs to strengthen and support families and the dignity of the human spirit
• Administering the Corporal Works of Mercy and Gospel of Jesus Christ as defined by the magisterium of the Roman Catholic Church and envisioned by the traditional concepts of Catholic Social Teaching and Action through the laity
• And advocating for social justice for the common good of all

Refugee Assistance & Immigration Services (RAIS) provides a bridge for refugees (individuals who have had to flee their countries of origin due to the tragedies of persecution and war) and other new arrivals from their former life experiences to the new skills required for success in the United States. Through a focus on economic self-sufficiency, community integration, and a respect for unique cultures, history and traditions, RAIS creates an environment of compassion and encouragement for refugees to flourish.

Must be able to maintain professionalism and boundaries while treating clients and staff with dignity and respect.  

Strong organizational and time management skills with demonstrated ability to coordinate multiple activities. 

Excellent verbal and written communication skills with ability to interact effectively with diverse populations and cultures. 

Knowledge of area labor market trends and workforce development resources. 

Working knowledge of motivational interviewing techniques and strength-based approaches. 

Self-motivated and ability to work independently with minimal supervision while maintaining team collaboration. 

Work well within a rapidly changing environment. Supports group decisions and puts group goals ahead of personal goals. 

Communicates openly and honestly.

Deals with difficult and adverse events while maintaining professionalism.

Responds appropriately in the face of tension, emotion and resistance and seeks support from others when necessary. 

Demonstrated leadership, dependability, maturity, creativity, discretion, initiative and flexibility. 

Ability and desire to work with a variety of people to carry out the mission and purpose of the program. 

Willing to work with clients in various settings and office environments. 

Knowledge: 

• Knowledge of different learning styles and instructional approaches
• Knowledge and understanding of current workforce trends, strategies and best practices.
• Knowledge of Alaska job market, personnel recruitment procedures and interviewing techniques. 
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and related computer applications. 
• Skilled in responding effectively to inquiries and resolving complaints from clients and employers. 
• Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the social, health, educational, training and cultural needs of people from other cultures immigrating to the United States. 
• Ability to engage in outreach activities including job fairs, community events and employer meetings. 

Maintain an active participant caseload, providing comprehensive services to Refugee and Immigrant Youth enrolled in the program. 

Conduct thorough assessments to identify strengths, skills, and barriers, developing realistic goals tailored to the youth’s needs. 

Provide one-on-one coaching and guidance in job search strategies, applying for employment/education opportunities, developing job/interview skills, access to transportation to employment sites and for completion of pre-employment requirements (i.e., background checks, drug tests). 

Conduct ongoing monitoring of employed clients and mediate employer client relations.

Outreach new employer contacts and maintain relationships with employers.

In coordination with the Program Manager, develop and facilitate curriculum and activities as necessary to develop job skills. 

Coordinate internal and external referrals which may include interpretation services.

Document all interactions, progress and outcomes in Apricot Case Management database, maintaining data integrity.

Conduct 1 week and 90-day employment follow ups to provide support to clients and employers.

Participate in Integrated Case Management meetings to coordinate services with internal and external teams/agencies.

Administer supportive services according to program policy, procedure and budget guidelines.

Coordinate participant transportation as needed. 

Attend and actively participate in department meetings, trainings and community events. 

Maintain strict confidentiality according to regulations, policies and procedures. 

Perform all related duties as needed and assigned. 

Minimum Qualifications: High School Diploma or equivalent

Minimum Experience Requirement: One (1) year of experience in case management, employment counseling, workforce development or similar field. 

A relevant combination of education and experience may be considered.   

Work environment: Work is performed at the Welcome Center in a shared office environment. The noise level may be louder during the winter months as children may frequent the Welcome Center. Occasional lifting of up to 25 pounds. Frequently sitting or standing at a desk for several hours at a time.

Travel: Frequent travel within Anchorage is required. Rare travel to Wasilla or Delta Junction office may be required. 

Location: 4135 San Roberto Avenue, Anchorage, AK.