Barrier Reduction Specialist (temporary position)

This position is intended to be temporary in nature. Hours of work will be 11:30am - 5pm Monday through Friday. 

Goodwill Industries is seeking to hire a part-time candidate to assist in the role of Barrier Reduction Specialist. The Barrier Reduction Specialist is responsible for removing barriers for participants so they can fully participate in training and employment programming. The Specialist will connect participants to community resources by collaborating with partner programs and providing support services. The Specialist will conduct assessments, identify needs and barriers, provide appropriate referrals, navigate intake processes, and complete follow up for participants in the region (Winnebago, Boone, Stephenson, and Ogle Counties).

Responsibilities & Essential Functions:

Community & Participant Partnerships

• Connect with and assess participants in the Clean Energy program.

• Work with the Clean Energy partner programs to provide support for both participants and partner staff.

• Establish a network of contacts and partners in the community to effectively make participant referrals.


• Establish a positive rapport with individuals and the community.


• Conduct outreach for the Clean Energy program in conjunction with the team and partners. 

Collaboration

• Provide appropriate referrals for individuals to agencies in the community who can assist in providing resources and overcoming barriers.


• Work with partner staff to coach and mentor in providing barrier reduction services.


• Act as liaison between Goodwill and partner programs.

Administrative

• Administer appropriate assessments for individuals to identify potential barriers keeping people from obtaining training and employment.


• Coordinate, develop and assist with assigned services, records, reports, and program development.


• Maintain participant files and reports in compliance with program requirements.


• Ensure understanding of programs and eligibility guidelines and intake processes.

The above list of responsibilities is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed.  It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities or duties required.  Employees are expected to perform other duties as assigned.

Supervision Received: Clean Energy Program Manager   

Supervision provided: Clean Energy Program participants

Qualifications & Basic Job Requirements:

• A combination of education and relevant work experience that aligns with the duties of this position.


• Demonstrated ability to work with individuals with barriers to employment and understand and communicate with diverse groups.


• Strong verbal and written communication skills.


• Functional use of Microsoft applications such as Word, Excel, and Outlook.

• Ability to travel to locations within Goodwill’s territory on a regular schedule. Driver’s license and proof of auto insurance required.

Sensory and Physical Requirements:

Ability to efficiently and effectively perform all functions of the job. Ability to clearly communicate program details and information to both funders and the public. Valid Driver’s license and reliable, insured automobile. Must be able to travel frequently to locations in Winnebago, Boone, Stephenson, and Ogle Counties.

Characteristic Functions:

• Professional approach to work.  Required to work with a variety of audiences including partners and program participants.


• Excellent organizational and communication skills.


• Ability to communicate with diverse groups in multiple mediums.

Principal Challenges:

• Working with diverse staff and partners to ensure appropriate and effective services.

Environment:

The work is conducted at the Goodwill Administration and Mission Building and in partner agencies in Winnebago, Boone, Stephenson, and Ogle Counties with frequent travel to various locations.  Hours are primarily daytime hours, but on occasion, can include evening and/or weekend hours.

Compensation: $22/hour

Key Benefits We Offer:
Flexible work schedule, Store discount, and career advancement opportunities.

Thank you for your interest in working at Goodwill.  We commit to providing each applicant with a hiring experience that allows you to bring your authentic self to the table. If you need an alternative method to apply this for position, please contact Goodwill's Human Resource Department at [email protected].