The Happier Life Project · 10 hours ago
Workforce Development Specialist
Lake Elsinore, CA
Part-time
Onsite
Entry, Mid Level
$31/hr - $31/hr
2+ years expThe Happier Life Project is dedicated to supporting justice-involved individuals in their journey towards employment. The Workforce Development Specialist will assist participants in building skills and confidence through individualized career planning, job readiness training, and employer partnerships.
Government Administration
Responsibilities
Conduct employment assessments to identify strengths, barriers, skills, history, educational and vocational goals
Build rapport with participants through empathy, consistency, and trauma-responsive development
Provide support and encouragement to help participants stay engaged in the workforce development process
Maintain regular contact with participants through phone, in-person meetings, and community-based visits
Assist participants with developing individualized employment plans
Support job searches, resume development, interview preparation, and workplace readiness
Provide coaching on communication, time management, conflict resolution, and professionalism
Identify opportunities for vocational training, certification programs, apprenticeships, and education pathways
Accompany participants to interviews, orientations, or training events when needed
Identify and cultivate relationships with employers willing to hire justice-involved individuals
Provide employers with program information, incentives, and ongoing support
Coordinate with workforce programs, training providers, and community partners to expand opportunities
Serve as a point of contact for addressing workplace concerns and supporting job retention
Facilitate groups, workshops, and workforce readiness classes as assigned
Provide structured group instruction on job readiness, soft skills, and employment expectations
Use Motivational Interviewing techniques and trauma-responsive approaches to support participation
Document all workforce-related contacts, services, referrals, and updates in the EHR
Ensure all documentation follows BSCC and THLP standards, including PIP formatting
Track employment outcomes such as job placement, wages, retention, training completion, and barriers
Complete all required logs, reports, and updates within assigned timelines
Attend case conferencing meetings, team huddles, trainings, and supervision
Participate in outreach events, resource fairs, and partner presentations as assigned
Provide education and support to the team regarding workforce development practices
Support the Program Manager and Lead Integrated Care Navigator with data, reporting, and program operations
Other duties as assigned
Qualification
Required
Minimum two years of experience in workforce development, job coaching, or a related field
Experience working directly with the justice-involved population
Strong communication and coaching skills
Knowledge of local employers, workforce programs, vocational training, and community resources
Experience developing resumes, coaching interviews, and supporting job placement
Proficient in electronic documentation and data entry
Valid California driver's license, reliable transportation, and proof of insurance
Ability to work in person with flexibility for some evenings or weekends
Preferred
Associate degree or higher in business, human services, psychology, sociology, or a related field
Bilingual English and Spanish
Lived experience with justice involvement, recovery, housing instability, or reentry
Knowledge of Medi-Cal, SDOH tools, and evidence-based employment practices
Company
The Happier Life Project
Our mission is to empower individuals, families, and communities affected by substance use issues, and mental health challenges.
11-50 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Early StageCompany data provided by crunchbase