Community Workforce Specialist

Job Summary

The Community Workforce Specialist is a key team member supporting workforce development efforts in Anne Arundel County communities. This role focuses on engaging residents within the community, connecting them to employment resources and services, while building and strengthening partnerships with local organizations. Community Workforce Specialists are subject-matter experts in the communities they serve who can provide insights and feedback to management and senior AAWDC leadership to create tailored solutions to the workforce challenges in their assigned community. The ideal candidate will live in or have deep, meaningful connections to the community they are assigned to. The candidate will have demonstrated experience building relationships with diverse partners and individuals 

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

· Engage and support community members by connecting them to job training, apprenticeships, and employment resources.

· Develop and facilitate community workshops that seek to accomplish one or more of the following objectives: 

1. 1. Instruction in job seeking, retention, and related aspects of the world of work; 
2. 2. Motivate interest and build self-esteem; 
3. 3. Foster positive attitudes.

· Build and maintain partnerships with community organizations, faith-based groups, and local leaders to expand workforce development outreach.

· Attend and represent AAWDC at community events, meetings, and collaborative initiatives to promote workforce initiatives and services.

· Conduct targeted outreach to identify potential participants and refer them to appropriate services. 

· Assist in planning and coordinating hiring events, resource fairs, workshops, and career-focused events in collaboration with community partners.

· Work closely with internal teams to implement workforce initiatives that address community needs. 

· Track participation and outcomes to help assess program effectiveness and inform service improvements.

· Stay current on labor market trends, employer needs, and community challenges impacting employment access.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

· None

Qualifications

Education and Experience Requirements:

· 1-3 years of experience in community engagement, workforce development, or a related role. Preferably in a nonprofit setting.

· Demonstrated knowledge of human behavior and psychology, labor market dynamics, and ethical practices in workforce development, gained through attainment of a Bachelor’s degree or knowledge-based competency.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

· Ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders. 

· Strong communication and interpersonal skills. 

· Strong project management skills and the ability to work independently. 

· Familiarity with the challenges and barriers faced by vulnerable communities. 

· Basic proficiency in data tracking and reporting tools.

· Familiarity with workforce development programs and services.

· Residency in the community or strong local connections. Preferred

· Bilingual (English/Spanish or other languages) Preferred

Work Environment:

· Standard Hours 8:30am- 4:00pm. Hours for this position are subject to vary based on the needs of the community. 

· Position may require local travel within Anne Arundel County.

· Office and community-based settings

· Occasional evening or weekend events

Physical Demands:

· None