Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Job Developer Assistant

🎯 Role Definition

The Job Developer Assistant is a pivotal support role within our workforce development team, dedicated to empowering individuals on their path to sustainable employment. Reporting to a Senior Job Developer or Program Manager, you will provide essential, hands-on assistance to both our clients (job seekers) and the job development staff. Your work will directly contribute to client success by preparing them for the job market, connecting them with opportunities, and providing the administrative backbone that allows our program to run efficiently. This position is ideal for a highly organized, compassionate, and proactive individual passionate about making a tangible difference in people's lives.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Administrative Assistant (in a social services or HR setting)
Case Aide or Program Aide
Customer Service Representative
Recent graduate with relevant internship experience

Advancement To:

Job Developer
Career Coach / Employment Specialist
Case Manager
Program Coordinator

Lateral Moves:

Outreach Specialist
Intake Coordinator
Corporate Recruiter (Entry-Level)

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Provide one-on-one assistance to clients in drafting, editing, and tailoring professional resumes and compelling cover letters that align with specific job descriptions.
Conduct comprehensive mock interview sessions, offering constructive feedback on verbal and non-verbal communication, STAR method responses, and overall presentation skills to build client confidence.
Actively research and identify suitable job leads and employment opportunities from a variety of sources, including online job boards, company websites, and social media platforms, matching them to client profiles.
Assist in the initial intake and assessment process for new clients, gathering essential information on their work history, skills, career goals, and potential barriers to employment.
Maintain consistent and supportive follow-up communication with clients throughout their job search process, providing encouragement, resources, and strategic advice.
Support the planning, coordination, and facilitation of job readiness workshops and training sessions on topics such as digital literacy, financial planning, and professional etiquette.
Initiate contact with potential employers via phone and email to inquire about hiring needs and introduce the organization's services, helping to build a pipeline of employment partners.
Help clients navigate and complete online job applications, ensuring all required information is submitted accurately and professionally.
Perform post-placement follow-up with both the employed client and the employer to support job retention, troubleshoot any initial challenges, and document outcomes.
Guide clients in establishing and optimizing their professional online presence, particularly on platforms like LinkedIn, to enhance their visibility to recruiters.
Assist in screening and referring qualified candidates from the client pool to employer partners for open positions.
Document all client interactions, case notes, job search activities, and employment milestones meticulously and in a timely manner within the designated CRM or database.
Escort clients to job fairs, interviews, and networking events as needed, providing on-site support and encouragement.
Develop and distribute resource materials, including job lead lists, interview tip sheets, and guides to local community services, to empower clients in their search.
Collaborate with senior job developers to understand individual client service plans and contribute to strategies for overcoming employment barriers.

Secondary Functions

Meticulously maintain physical and digital client files and records, ensuring compliance with organizational policies and confidentiality standards.
Compile data and assist in preparing weekly, monthly, and quarterly reports on key performance indicators such as client placements, job retention rates, and outreach activities.
Provide general administrative support to the job development team, including scheduling appointments, managing calendars, and preparing materials for meetings.
Conduct research on local labor market trends, in-demand industries, and prevailing wage rates to inform program strategy and client guidance.
Assist in managing and updating the organization's database of employer contacts and partnership records.
Support the organization and promotion of hiring events and career fairs, handling logistics such as venue coordination, employer registration, and material preparation.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Microsoft Office Suite: High proficiency in Word for resume creation, Excel for tracking data, Outlook for communication, and PowerPoint for workshop presentations.
CRM/Database Management: Experience with client management systems like Salesforce, ETO, or similar case management software for data entry and reporting.
Resume & Cover Letter Writing: Strong ability to write, format, and edit professional application documents.
Online Research: Advanced skills in using job boards (Indeed, LinkedIn), professional networking sites, and search engines for job lead generation and labor market research.
Data Entry: Fast and accurate typing skills with a keen eye for detail to ensure data integrity.
Professional Social Media: Knowledge of using platforms like LinkedIn for professional branding and networking.

Soft Skills

Exceptional Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for clear, empathetic, and professional interaction with clients, employers, and colleagues.
Interpersonal Skills: Ability to build rapport and trust with individuals from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Empathy & Patience: A genuine, non-judgmental approach to understanding and supporting clients facing significant personal and professional challenges.
Organizational & Time Management: Superb ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Problem-Solving: Proactive and resourceful in identifying issues and finding effective solutions to help clients overcome barriers.
Motivational & Coaching Skills: Ability to inspire and encourage clients, fostering a sense of self-efficacy and resilience.
Active Listening: The skill to listen attentively to understand client needs, concerns, and aspirations fully.
Adaptability: Flexibility to adjust to changing program needs, client situations, and employer demands.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED equivalent, coupled with relevant work experience.

Preferred Education:

Associate's or Bachelor's Degree.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Social Work
Human Services
Psychology or Sociology
Human Resources
Communications

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 1-3 years of experience in a role involving customer service, administrative support, social services, or human resources.

Preferred:

Direct experience working in a workforce development, career services, or non-profit organization.
Experience working with populations facing barriers to employment is highly desirable.
Bilingual abilities are often a significant plus.