Construction and Trades Employment Specialist

at Lumity in Chicago, Illinois, United States

Job Description

Lumity’s mission is to provide teens and young adults with transformational experiences that prepare them for lifelong STEM careers. 
  
If your dream is to make your community better, consider joining the Lumity Team. Lumity is exposing Chicago’s youth to STEM careers to inspire students to stay in school, find a meaningful career path, and ultimately, a satisfying job. At Lumity, you will find a dynamic work environment where learning and growing is part of our culture.  Our staff works hard and has fun along the way.  For more information about us, go to www.lumity.org. 
 
POSITION DESCRIPTION 
Lumity’s Construction and Trades – Employment Specialist establishes and nurtures relationships with employers in the construction and trades, facilitates job placements, recruits to match participants with construction companies, prepares employers to work with Lumity youth, and supports the career development of young adults.  The Employment Specialist works collaboratively with their peers to ensure each youth has an individualized plan that addresses social-emotional, employment, and life skills to successfully launch and maintain their career in the construction industry. This position requires that you have construction and trades experience and knowledge of current needs. 

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES 
 
Employer Partnership Development  
Identify, engage, and cultivate relationships with employers, unions, industry associations, and community organizations to develop a network of job placement opportunities for young adults. Understand the needs and requirements of employers and promote the benefits of hiring young talent from the program. 
 
Job Placement and Matching  
Collaborate with employers to match the skills, interests, and aspirations of young adults with available job opportunities. 
 
Career Counseling and Preparation 
Provide career guidance and support to young adults, preparing them for the job market. Assist in resume writing, interview skills development, and professional etiquette training. Conduct mock interviews and offer feedback to enhance their readiness for employment. 
 
Employer Relationship Management & Preparation for Working with Lumity Youth 
Maintain regular communication with employer partners. Create and implement an orientation for employer partners to prepare managers on how to work with youth who have experienced trauma, anxiety, and inequities. Seek feedback on job placements and identify areas for improvement. Collaborate with employers to identify career advancement pathways for young adults. 
 
Monitoring and Reporting 
Track and document job placements, participant progress, and employer feedback. Prepare regular reports on program outcomes, including job placement rates, participant success stories, and employer engagement metrics. Utilize data and insights to evaluate program effectiveness and make recommendations for enhancements. 
 
Cultural Sensitivity 
Exemplify sensitivity and respect for individuals from diverse backgrounds and cultures. Create an inclusive and supportive environment for program participants.  
Networking & Outreach  
Engage in networking activities to expand Lumity’s employer partner network. Attend job fairs, union meetings, career events, and industry conferences to connect with potential employers and stay updated on labor market trends and opportunities. 
 
Passion for Mission 
Alignment with Lumity’s mission to provide teens and young adults from under-resourced communities with transformational experiences for lifelong STEM careers. Dedication to empowering young individuals and promoting equity in the workforce.