Transition Specialist 2

Description

JOB SUMMARY: Provide transition assistance to ex-PRIDE participants to meet PRIDE Social Mission goals. This includes release plan preparations, support services for transition period, and job placement assistance. Execute the matching process to ensure participants are placed in appropriate job opportunities. Provide continued coaching and support to reduce recidivism.  Some travel is required-Mainly North FLA (Panama City-Tallahassee-Jacksonville Areas)-Office is out of home.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Other duties may be assigned. 

1. Develop and coordinate the Release Plans of PRIDE workers, in cooperation with the Department of Corrections Classification and Release Officers, PRIDE Industry Management and Department of Corrections Probation and Parole Officers.
2. Visit PRIDE Industries located within in your assigned territory, inside Florida Department of Corrections Institutions, to meet with PRIDE workers scheduled to be released within a six month time frame, to develop their individual release plans.
3. Identify possible barriers former workers may encounter in their transition and collaborate with community organizations and agencies to secure needed support services.
4. Utilize case management software system to enroll participants in the Transition Program and provide a record of additional program enrollments and dollar value of services received. Utilize case notes to document client contact. 
5. Secure the initial support services for participants to include temporary housing, tools, transportation, clothing, etc. on an as needed basis.
6. Monitor activities upon initial release, provide guidance and counseling including arrangements for proper identification and establishment of regular, consistent reporting requirements.
7. Provide comprehensive guidance and support in preparation of job searches. This includes encouraging PRIDE Inmate Workers to access the Career Resource Center within the PRIDE Industry prior to their release for resume preparation. Coaching released former workers on instructions of completing applications, proper conduct for interviews, role playing, and guidance on apparel to wear, etc.
8. Identify job openings and match with PRIDE participants, inform employer of participant’s strengths, training, skills, background, work history, etc. and set interview appointment. Follow up with employer and participant. 
9. Secure employment for ex-PRIDE workers consistent with the goals established by the PRIDE Board of Directors.
10. Continue guidance and counseling to participants during initial weeks of employment while following up consistently with employers. Support job retention at 30 days.
11. Assist Management with special projects, grant applications, routine reports, and other miscellaneous tasks.
12. 1Build and retain relationships with organizations across the state that can provide needed support to participants by participation in re-entry coalitions, support groups, trade, and business organizations.
13. Track and communicate key performance metrics for the Inmate Programs & Training department to management. 

Requirements

1. Education and Experience: Associate Degree with 1 to 2 years business services experience or 5 to 7 years’ experience in social services, training, job development, or job placement.
2. Language Skills: Ability to articulate verbally and in writing the routine communications required in fulfilling day-to-day job placement responsibilities.
3. Mathematical Skills: Ability to interpret, manipulate and process data in reports, graphs, and data summaries relative to duties and responsibilities.
4. Reasoning Ability: Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.
5. Specialized Knowledge and/or Skill: Experience working with individuals to assess their training, prior work history, and job interests. Prefer additional experience in working with ex-offenders. Must be proficient in the areas of the company’s information management system that are applicable to this position. Individual must complete this requirement within 90 days of hire or promotion to position.
6. Other Skills and Abilities: Ability to communicate with individuals having diverse backgrounds. Personable and professional demeanor.