Are you passionate about guiding individuals towards fulfilling career paths and economic independence? The Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE) is seeking a dedicated and knowledgeable Career Development Program Specialist to join our GAIN (Greater Avenues for Independence) division. This pivotal role offers the chance to make a tangible difference in people’s lives by providing comprehensive career services that pave the way for lifelong career success. If you are an expert in career exploration, pre-employment training, and job placement, this could be your next impactful career move.
The Career Development Program Specialist position at LACOE is more than just a job; it’s an opportunity to shape futures. You will be instrumental in delivering intensive career exploration and planning services to program participants. Your expertise will empower them through pre-employment training and job search/placement assistance, guiding them towards economic self-sufficiency. This role is crucial in supporting participants within the GAIN and GROW (General Relief Opportunities for Work) programs, facilitating their journey to sustainable employment and career advancement. Your daily activities will include conducting engaging career development orientations, leading dynamic workshops and training sessions, and providing personalized support in job preparation and search activities.
Key Responsibilities of a Career Development Program Specialist
As a Career Development Program Specialist, your expertise will be vital in several key areas:
- Career Counseling and Planning: You will provide personalized career counseling to program participants, helping them explore career options, identify their strengths and interests, and develop realistic career goals. This involves utilizing various assessment tools and techniques to understand individual needs and aspirations.
- Pre-Employment Training: Design and deliver comprehensive pre-employment training programs that equip participants with essential job readiness skills. This includes resume writing, interview techniques, workplace etiquette, and other crucial skills needed to succeed in today’s competitive job market.
- Job Search and Placement Assistance: Offer hands-on assistance with job searching strategies, networking, and application processes. You will work closely with participants to identify suitable job opportunities and facilitate job placements that align with their career goals and skills.
- Workshop Facilitation: Conduct engaging and informative workshops on various career development topics. These workshops will cover areas such as labor market trends, industry-specific skills, and strategies for career advancement.
- Program Development and Implementation: Contribute to the continuous improvement of career development programs by providing feedback, suggesting innovative approaches, and assisting in the development of new program initiatives.
- Compliance and Documentation: Ensure all services are delivered in compliance with relevant state and federal laws, as well as LACOE policies and guidelines. Maintain accurate and detailed records of participant progress and service delivery.
Essential Knowledge and Competencies
To excel as a Career Development Program Specialist, candidates should possess a robust set of knowledge and competencies, including:
Knowledge:
- Training and Instruction Principles: Deep understanding of effective training methodologies, instructional design, and behavior modification techniques to deliver impactful learning experiences.
- Employee Recruitment and Selection: Expertise in the principles, techniques, and tools used in employee recruitment, selection processes, hiring practices, and job placement strategies.
- Labor Market Dynamics: Comprehensive knowledge of economic and labor market conditions, trends, and industry-specific demands to provide informed career guidance.
- Career Development and Counseling: Proficiency in career development assessment and counseling techniques to effectively guide individuals in their career journeys.
- Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Familiarity with applicable state and federal laws and regulations related to employment and training, including LACOE policies and guidelines.
- Technology Proficiency: Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, etc.) and other relevant MS applications, as well as social media platforms for job searching and professional networking.
Competencies:
- Critical Thinking: Exceptional analytical and logical skills to evaluate information, propositions, and claims effectively in career counseling and program development.
- Fact Finding: Proven ability to gather and analyze relevant facts and data pertaining to participant needs and labor market trends.
- Legal & Regulatory Navigation: Skill in understanding, interpreting, and ensuring compliance with all relevant employment laws and regulations.
- Professional and Technical Expertise: Demonstrated ability to apply specialized technical knowledge in career development and human resources to the job.
- Technology Utilization: Competence in using technology and software applications to enhance service delivery and program management.
- Adaptability: Flexibility and resilience in responding to changing situations and modifying approaches as needed.
- Stress Management: Ability to maintain composure and effectiveness under pressure, challenge, or in demanding situations.
- Self-Management: Strong personal organization, self-discipline, and dependability in managing workload and responsibilities.
- Effective Communication: Excellent oral and written communication skills, including engaging in effective dialogue, delivering compelling presentations, and writing clear and concise reports.
- Customer Focus: Dedication to understanding and meeting the needs and expectations of program participants and stakeholders.
- Conflict Resolution: Skill in managing and resolving interpersonal conflicts in a professional and constructive manner.
- Influence and Persuasion: Ability to positively influence others’ opinions and decisions to facilitate positive career outcomes for participants.
- Professional Impact: Presenting oneself as a positive and credible representative of LACOE in all interactions.
- Relationship Building: Establishing and maintaining productive and collaborative relationships with participants, colleagues, and community partners.
- Developing Others: Commitment to supporting and empowering participants to expand their capabilities and achieve their full potential.
- Group Facilitation: Expertise in facilitating constructive and productive group interactions in workshops and training sessions.
- Teamwork and Collaboration: Proven ability to work effectively with others to achieve shared goals and program objectives.
- Cultural Proficiency: Demonstrating respect and inclusivity in communication and interaction with individuals from diverse backgrounds and cultures.
Education and Experience Requirements
To qualify for the Career Development Program Specialist position, candidates must meet the following education and experience criteria:
Education:
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in a relevant field such as business administration, sociology, psychology, political science, economics, human resources, or a closely related discipline. Degrees from foreign institutions require translation and equivalency certification.
Experience:
- Two years of technical experience in human resources, employment placement, or career or job development.
- At least one year of experience in leading or delivering professional training services.
Additional Requirements:
- Valid California driver’s license and reliable transportation to travel between job sites.
- Bilingual proficiency in a designated second language may be required for some positions.
Benefits of Joining LACOE
LACOE offers a competitive salary range of $5,016 to $6,228 monthly, along with a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Health Insurance: A choice of medical, dental, and vision insurance plans to meet your healthcare needs.
- Life Insurance: Employer-provided life insurance for peace of mind.
- Retirement Plan: Participation in the PERS Defined Benefit Plan for secure retirement savings.
- Paid Time Off: Generous paid time off, including 12 vacation days, 14 holidays, and 12 illness days annually, promoting work-life balance.
Take the Next Step in Your Career
If you are ready to empower individuals through career development and contribute to the success of the Los Angeles County community, we encourage you to apply for the Career Development Program Specialist position at LACOE.
Application Process:
Candidates meeting the minimum qualifications will be invited to participate in a competitive examination process, which may include a Training & Experience evaluation, performance exam, and structured interview.
Apply Online by 9/17/2018 5:00 PM (Pacific)
For complete application information, please visit the LACOE Personnel Commission website: https://www.lacoe.edu/PersonnelCommission.aspx
For inquiries about the examination process, please contact Jung Park at [email protected]. For general inquiries, call 562.803.8360 (Mon-Fri 8:00 am – 5:00 pm).
LACOE is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce that reflects the rich diversity of Los Angeles County. We look forward to receiving your application and welcoming a passionate Career Development Program Specialist to our team.
