Community workforce specialist

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.

Key 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: Instruction in job seeking, retention and related aspects of the world of work; Motivate interest and build self-esteem; 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.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

A minimum of one (1) to three (3) years of experience in community engagement, workforce development or a related role, preferably in a non-profit 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 equivalent work-related experience.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Collaborative and cross-functional communication.
• 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.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite or similar software.
• Familiarity with workforce development programs and services.
• Residency in the community or strong local connections preferred.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish or other languages) strongly desired.

Competencies and Attributes

• Work Quality: Demonstrates a strong commitment to producing high-quality deliverables. Pays close attention to detail and accuracy, meets deadlines, seeks opportunities to improve work processes and proactively addresses issues that could affect quality.
• Problem Solving: Actively looks for opportunities to develop solutions. Breaks down problems into manageable components, simplifies complex issues, and identifies and understands root causes.
• Adaptability: Adjusts effectively to changing work needs, priorities, or environments. Maintains an open, flexible and solution-oriented mindset when circumstances shift.
• Initiative: Takes action without waiting to be prompted. Proactively addresses needs or challenges and goes above and beyond standard responsibilities to drive results.
• Job Knowledge: Understands job duties and responsibilities thoroughly. Possesses and maintains the necessary technical skills and knowledge to meet performance expectations.
• Communication & Collaboration: Communicates clearly and effectively in various formats—including writing, speaking, reading, and active listening. Works collaboratively within and across teams, keeps others informed and contributes to shared goals.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

Agile to work in a fast-paced work environment and essential skills to manage multiple tasks simultaneously. This position follows a 35-hour work week. Occasional evening or weekend events are required and are subject to vary based on the needs of the community. Position will require frequent local travel with potential for occasional regional and nationwide travel. This position requires movement within the office to access files, office machinery, supplies, etc.