Employment Counselor
Who We Are
Project for Pride in Living, Inc. (PPL) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering low-income people to become self-reliant through integrated services. When joining PPL, you become a part of a diverse team whose person-centered approach to services ensures individuals and families receive the housing and ecosystem of support they need to achieve greater stability now and for the next generation. We are eager to welcome new team members dedicated to serving our residents and pursuing our mission to build the hope, assets, and self-reliance of individuals and families who have lower incomes by providing transformative, affordable housing and employment readiness services. PPL strives to be an equitable and inclusive organization committed to elevating the voices of the communities we serve that are disproportionately affected by systemic inequities.
Job Summary
Provide comprehensive, ongoing case management support to a diverse portfolio of low-income families who are eligible for the Hennepin County MFIP program. Assist them in achieving economic stability and exploring career opportunities as they work toward long-term independence.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities: The following duties are normal for this position. These duties are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive.
- Establish and maintain trusting relationships with participants through proactive and reliable service.
- Review and assess the participant’s overall status in terms of physical, social, vocational, educational, and employment factors to recognize their strengths and identify any challenges
- Facilitate individual career exploration and assessment sessions with participants, using the findings to inform goal setting and the development of tailored employment plans.
- Provide continuous coaching and career counseling to support ongoing employment success and development.
- Utilize motivational interviewing and other coaching techniques that emphasize participant strengths and reinforce change behaviors.
- Assist participants in developing goal plans for family stability and self-sufficiency.
- Perform comprehensive assessments with participants to determine family strengths and needs.
- Assist participants in accessing a wide array of services and resources, including affordable housing, legal and financial assistance, health services (physical, mental, chemical), child enrichment programs and family support services.
- Facilitate placement into supported work positions and training programs; provide retention services to participants placed into permanent employment.
- Maintain accurate and precise case notes and file documentation in an online database.
- Monitor the progress of participants through weekly contact and data tracking systems.
- Ability to work with a culturally diverse clientele.
- Participate and engage in team consultations and Employment Training meetings.
- Assist with the development and execution of on-site participant workshops and events as directed by the Program Manager.
Additional Tasks and Responsibilities: While the following tasks are necessary for the work of the unit, they are not an essential part of the purpose of this position and may also be performed by other members.
- Answer and route telephone calls and miscellaneous questions from employees, clients, vendors, and the public, and provide customer service.
- Support PPL's work and mission by accepting assignments for special projects, committees, etc.
- Provide information on assigned functions.
- Perform related administrative duties.
- Performs other duties as assigned or directed.
Race Equity Commitment:
Our equity statement reads PPL strives to be an equitable and inclusive organization committed to elevating the voices of the communities we serve who are disproportionately affected by systemic inequities.
Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required.
Supervisory Responsibilities
This position has no supervisory responsibilities.
Minimum Requirements
- Self-starter with a high level of attention to detail and follow-through.
- 1-2 years of customer service experience, or the ability to demonstrate strong communication skills and the ability to solve problems.
- Ability to work independently and as a team member.
- Ability to adhere to HIPAA, ADA, and data privacy requirements.
- Demonstrated proficiency with MS Word and Excel.
- Ability to access and navigate online databases; Workforce One, MAXIS, and MEC2 experience is a plus.
- Must have a valid driver’s license and insurance.
Hours: Standard business hours - 40 hours per week
Education and/or Experience
- Bachelor's degree in Human Services or a related field (related experience may substitute for degree).
- Minimum two years experience working with low-income families of diverse backgrounds and cultures.
- Somali language preferred.
Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, bend, and communicate. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 10-25 pounds.
Work Environment
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions and ability to work under generally safe and comfortable conditions where exposure to environmental factors may cause discomfort and poses a limited risk of injury.
Benefits: Health & Dental; Employer Paid Short & Long Term Disability Insurance, Employer Paid Life Insurance; Paid Parental Leave; Voluntary Life Insurance; Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA); PTO and paid Holidays; 403(b) Retirement Plan with Employer Match; Summer half-day Fridays; an impactful presence in an organization that makes a difference in many lives.
Salary: $22.00-$24.00 Yr., DOQ
PPL's work structure has evolved into a Hybrid Model where available, striking a balance between on-site presence at the office or satellite locations and remote work from home based on the program's needs. Working with your supervisor to find the right balance for your team will evolve over time.
How to Apply:
Qualified candidates can apply online. Include a cover letter and resume. The hiring process includes phone screens and in-person interviews, references, and background checks for final candidates.
PPL strives to be an equitable and inclusive organization committed to elevating the voices of the communities we serve those who are disproportionately affected by systemic inequities. Persons of color, women, members of the LGBTQ community, veterans, and individuals with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
PPL is an EEO/AA employer. PPL participates in the federal E-verify program to confirm the identity and employment authorization of all newly hired employees.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the organization will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.