Extension Program Specialist II (Workforce Development)

The Workforce Development Specialist will develop, implement and manage a workforce development and job placement program with a focus of establishing apprenticeship opportunities with Employers across the state and working with trainers to provide high demand job training to rural and low-income communities. This position will specialize in increasing employer networks and job opportunities for trained participants. Must market and seek program participants to fill classes. Workforce Development Specialist will also be responsible for general Community & Economic Development unit specialist duties such as providing leadership, planning and implementation of educational outreach programs in support of county-based staff. Additionally, the staff will prepare subject matter training and educational resource materials to address needs of limited resource clientele.

This position is funded by a grant or restricted funds. Continued employment is contingent on the renewal of grant or restricted funding. This position may pay more than the salary listed above depending on the qualifications and experience of the selected candidate.

Responsibilities:

• Market program to Employers and program participants to ensure program growth and job placement throughout the State. Assist Employers with developing apprenticeship program by registering with the Department of Labor and the local workforce commission. Work with regional work boards and assist partner employers with becoming a worksite for “work-based learning” approved employees.
• Organize and manage apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship skills training that lead to employment and apprenticeship with a partner employer. The specialist will provide programs and training in NCCER core, soft skills, dress code etiquette, interview training, resume building, and on the job training. Specialist will identify sponsored skills trainers and connect them with TRWA program.
• Build and package apprenticeship program standard operating procedure to be duplicated in various counties throughout the state. Build and package Work-based learning program standard operating procedure to be duplicated in various counties throughout the state. Develop and/or identify program participant assessment tools to determine program fit, industry interest, skills, disabilities, and other applicable resources available through local workforce solutions and disability services.
• Develop, grow, and maintain new and ongoing workforce partnerships using a variety of communication strategies (including direct cold calls) to gain industry knowledge and familiarity with organizational structures, business areas, technologies used, and/or any other special needs required on the job. Initiate and maintain ongoing personal contacts with a variety of businesses, local chambers, workforce partners, and other industry representatives to promote the value of training and community impact.
• Specialist is responsible for seeking outside funding through writing grants and corporate sponsorship in support of TRWA program. The employee will serve as an outreach coordinator for public-private partnerships that support the CED unit. Develop and provide educational documents, newsletters, fact sheets, curriculum, PowerPoint presentations, and videos, to support county agents in-depth and outreach plans. Travel to selected counties to provide technical assistance and training for agents and volunteers. Conducts and supports trainings related to Community & Economic Development such as small business development, youth entrepreneurship, and housing.
• Work with program coordinator and grants coordinator to maintain accurate job placement, participant tracking, budget/grant allocations and fiscal records. Participates in college-wide events and activities. Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Education and Experience:

• Master Degree.
• Five years of related professional experience.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of word processing, database, presentation and spreadsheet applications.
• Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, analytical, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Ability to maintain a positive work atmosphere by acting and communicating in a manner to get along with co-workers, supervisors, and clientele.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in business, entrepreneurship, or workforce.
• Six or more years in staffing and recruitment, workforce development, Texas Workforce Commission, or Texas Workforce Solutions.
• TEN or more years in community and economic development related employment or industry.

Job Posting Close Date:

Until Filled

Required Attachments:

Please attach all required documents listed below in the attachment box labeled as either “Resume/CV or Resume/Cover Letter” on the application. Multiple attachments may be included in the “Resume/CV” or Resume/Cover Letter” attachment box. Any additional attachments provided outside of the required documents listed below are considered optional.

• Resume or Curriculum Vitae
• Cover Letter