Minnesota Training Partnership

Compensation

Full Description

Position: Minnesota Training Partnership (MTP) is seeking a full-time Workforce Development Specialist to lead and support a wide range of employment, training, and labor-partnered activities. Background: MTP is an experienced and successful provider of workforce development services, particularly those that connect people to, or help them advance in union jobs. The leadership of the Minnesota AFL-CIO established MTP in November 2017, and the organization was awarded 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status in September 2019. MTP’s affiliation with Minnesota AFL-CIO assists us to leverage strong connections to unions and employers to benefit program participants. The mission of MTP is to advance equity by strengthening the pipeline of underserved populations into stable job opportunities and upgrading incumbent worker skills. MTP’s employment and training programs are funded by grants from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry, Minnesota Department of Children, Youth and Families, City of Minneapolis, Hennepin County, union partners, philanthropic donors, and subcontracts with organizations funded by the U.S. Department of Labor. Position Overview: The Workforce Development Specialist will be leading workforce development activities that include participant services, support for labor-management apprenticeship programs, and regional outreach to promote workplace rights and labor-centered training. The role combines direct service with program development and partnership cultivation, and is ideal for a self-motivated individual who thrives in both one-on-one settings and regional stakeholder collaborations. Key Responsibilities: Participant Services and Career Navigation: · Provide culturally competent, participant-centered support to individuals enrolled in MTP’s workforce training and employment programs. · Assist participants in identifying and addressing barriers to employment and training success. · Connect individuals to employment opportunities and wraparound support services. · Support participants with job search, resume development, career coaching, and employment placement services. · Maintain accurate participant records and meet performance benchmarks related to training completion, job placement, and retention. Union and Employer Engagement for Apprenticeship Development: · Build and strengthen relationships with union leaders and employers across the region to support the development and expansion of Registered Apprenticeship programs. · Assist labor and management partners with accessing technical assistance, funding resources, and curriculum development for apprenticeship initiatives. · Organize stakeholder meetings, conduct follow-up, and facilitate MTP’s role in supporting union-led workforce training solutions. · Collaborate with unions to align apprenticeship offerings with regional workforce needs and equity goals. Workplace Rights and Labor Education: · Conduct outreach and education efforts to raise awareness of Minnesota workplace laws. · Provide training and materials in culturally and linguistically relevant formats, both online and in-person. · Collaborate with unions, employers, and community-based organizations to expand awareness of worker rights from education-focused perspective. Program Administration: · Track and report program performance outcomes and regional activity in alignment with grant requirements. · Ensure documentation is accurate, complete, and timely in program databases and participant case files. · Support regional grant implementation efforts and collaborate with MTP’s central program and compliance teams. Cultural Competency: · Provide services that demonstrate sensitivity and respect for the diverse backgrounds and experiences of participants. · Continuously seek to improve cultural competency and inclusiveness in program delivery. · Advocate for the needs and interests of participants within the organization and community. Required skills and experience a. 2 years of experience with workforce development activities b. Microsoft Office Suite proficiency c. Virtual and in-person training experience d. Strong interpersonal skills to connect with people of all backgrounds e. Strong organizational skills, demonstrated in part through data management f. Demonstrated commitment to the mission of Minnesota Training Partnership: to advance equity by strengthening the pipeline of underserved populations into stable job opportunities and upgrading incumbent worker skills g. Demonstrated commitment to the rights of working people h. Reliable transportation required Preferred skills and experience i. Bachelor’s degree in education, social work, human resources, psychology, or related field; or equivalent experience j. Training curriculum development/enhancement experience k. Spanish, Hmong, or Somali fluency, both verbal and written l. Experience with or knowledge of labor unions and the labor movement Pay and Benefits: This is a union position earning $52,000 - $56,000/year DOQ, with a generous benefits package, including 401k, 100% paid premiums for medical/dental/vision, car and cell allowance, paid time off (vacation, health, holidays), and more. Minnesota Training Partnership is an equal opportunity employer. Interested applicants should send resumes and cover letters to Jerome Balsimo at JBalsimo@mnaflcio.org.