Career Development Specialist

The salary range is based on several factors, including, but not limited to, overall experience, relevant experience, education level, certifications, applicable skills, and expertise. Hybrid: 4 days in office/1 day remote Join UP! We are lighting the path home, one person at a time. About Urban Pathways  Since 1975, Urban Pathways has engaged New York City’s most vulnerable residents, people on the streets or in areas unfit for human habitation, “lighting the path home, one person at a time.” Urban Pathways is a catalyst for transformative change in the lives of unhoused adults, empowering them to discover their inherent strengths and abilities. We provide essential support and foster an environment where individuals can redefine their narratives and become their best selves. Job Summary Reporting to the Director of Employment Services, the Career Development Specialist develops and sustains a portfolio of competitive job placements in business and the community and partners with mental health clients to assist them in obtaining competitive employment. The Career Development Specialist will be an active listener and provide high quality customer service and respond by exhibiting cross-cultural awareness with the ability to promote and contribute to an equitable and inclusive anti-racist organizational culture and environment. Key Responsibilities & Essential Functions Program/Facilities Develops and sustains internships and competitive job placements in business, industry, and the community, and assesses clients for job fit. Maintains on-going contact with employers, and performs off-site visits.  Works with employers and organizations to customize jobs that meet the employers' needs and capitalize on the skills and talents of individual clients.  Works closely with employers to guarantee their satisfaction with Upwards.  Works closely with case managers and other Urban Pathways staff to recruit and enroll participants who meet eligibility requirements for the Upwards Program.  Works with clients to assess and develop employment plans that match clients' interests, aptitudes, education levels, physical abilities, and previous work experience and career goals.  Provides vocational counseling for the specialized population of homeless and formerly homeless individuals with mental illness and substance abuse histories.  Identifies client strengths and weaknesses, past work records and interests.  Acts as a job coach for clients that are placed in competitive, transitional, and supportive employment.  Models workplace professionalism for clients in individual and group settings. Provides situational judgment training and role-play opportunities for clients.  Ensures that clients participating in the Upwards Program meet basic standards of program compliance.  Accompanies clients to local businesses for job search.  Develops employment training curriculum, conducts workshops and work ­ related…