Training Facilitator at sermetro – Chicago, Illinois

Job Title: Office Training Facilitator

Reports to: Program Manager

Office Location: Central States SER, Jobs For Progress

Position Classification: Non-Exempt Full Time

Primary Objectives of Position: The Office Training Facilitator is responsible for conducting career management activities and facilitating training or workshops for youth and adults focused on job readiness preparation, labor market preparation, and introduction to vocational training for individuals or group settings of 10-30 as appropriate in person or virtually. This role will specifically support various programs, including the CEJA Hub, the WIOA program, and the DHS program while engaging in additional facilitation activities as needed in the office; this is not a work-from-home position.

Core Responsibilities and Objectives:

• Uphold the mission and core values of Central States SER while establishing a thorough understanding of the construction industry and clean energy or other demand sectors in Chicago and surrounding areas.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with vocational partners, identified businesses, and skilled building trade unions to support job placements and resource accessibility for eligible candidates seeking careers in various opportunities not limited to skilled or vocational trades.
• Conduct job readiness and soft skills training, including resume development, digital literacy, and other related activities, to prepare participants for employment in various fields.
• Use case studies and adapt training content to suit the audience's skill level and learning style.
• Assess participant knowledge or skills before, during, and after training sessions.
• Create resources such as presentations, handouts, guides, and e-learning modules and continuously improve training materials based on feedback and updated industry practices.
• Assist job seekers in exploring career opportunities by providing information on job details and matching their qualifications with potential employment opportunities, including help with employment applications and internet-based job searches.
• Work with staff to organize and facilitate community events and workshops to promote construction career pathways and clean energy opportunities, including supporting job clubs that cover topics such as job search strategies, application processes, time management, and interview preparation.
• Create and implement a youth-friendly GED curriculum that aligns with testing standards,
• Conduct GED instruction and provide one-on-one and group tutoring, focusing on upgrading literacy and numeracy skills necessary for GED certification. Maintain current knowledge of GED exam requirements and certification processes.
• Provide a facilitation curriculum focused on construction-related skills such as shop math, diagram reading, and critical thinking.
• Work in partnership with different departments and services, such as Business Service Representatives and Career Coaches, to improve participant outcomes and strengthen connections between local high schools and youth participants involved in credit recovery initiatives. Additionally, assist adult participants in preparing for vocational training by providing tailored soft skills training according to program needs.
• Monitor and evaluate participant progress by maintaining accurate records, addressing attendance issues, and communicating concerns to the Program Manager.
• Engage in ongoing recruiting and intake activities, conducting interviews to assess client needs and determine eligibility for program services. Document case records meticulously in both electronic and hard copy formats to ensure compliance with program guidelines.
• Actively participate in community outreach to build partnerships with local stakeholders and support referrals to crisis intervention or other services as needed.
• Remain informed about industry developments through workshops and training, maintaining professionalism and open communication with team members for collaborative success.
• Responsible for providing copies of lesson plans to the program coordinator in advance.
• Perform additional related duties as assigned, including various administrative tasks, case management activities, and maintaining a thorough understanding of the Illinois Workforce Development System and its resources, along with other curriculums or sites provided.

Desired Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of specific workforce performance requirements, community resources, case management principles, objectives, standards, and methods, and program policies and procedures.
• Strong interpersonal skills, including experience working with diverse customer populations.
• Ability to effectively communicate in writing and edit written materials.
• Ability to actively listen to and comprehend the needs, skills, and barriers of participants seeking employment and training services.
• Ability to motivate, develop, and direct individuals as they identify and acquire the skills needed for employment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Windows, MS Teams, Excel, PowerPoint, and other Office software, navigating the internet, and utilizing online learning platforms.
• Familiarity with Illinois WorkNet and career exploration clusters or similar systems
• Bilingual in Spanish/English is an additional benefit.

Other Job Duties:

This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Therefore, the employee may be requested to perform other reasonable related duties as assigned. The company reserves the right to revise or change job duties as business requirements dictate. It is mutually agreed that the job description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment. It is also understood that the company reserves the right to change work schedules as required, including overtime.

Qualifications:
Education: A bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college or university with major coursework in education, business management, administration, social work, or other related fields is preferred. An equivalent combination of experience and education may be substituted for a degree.

Experience: Previous experience in social work, vocational programs, counseling, career planning, placement services, or related fields preferred.

Skills/Abilities: Ability to establish rapport with and motivate disadvantaged participants to participate in work activities. Possess excellent oral and written communication skills and have the ability to work well both independently and as part of a team. Excellent problem-solving and critical-thinking skills. Ability to organize and prioritize tasks. Computer literacy and comfort working in a variety of internet-based systems. Basic knowledge and working skills in Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint.

Additional Requirements:

• Should be self-driven, proactive, and possess a positive attitude.
• Ability to understand and implement Federal and State regulations relevant to specific program areas; familiarity with local community resources is a plus.
• Must own a vehicle, hold a valid driver’s license, and maintain appropriate auto liability insurance. A willingness to travel as necessary is essential.

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer