Career Navigator - Athens Achieves

Location: Athens Area Chamber of Commerce
Job Type: Full-time
Salary: $20/hr.
Benefits: Full-time employees are eligible for benefits including health insurance, life insurance, retirement contribution, personal leave, etc.
Reports to: Chief Workforce Officer

Position Overview:

The Career Navigator plays a crucial role in guiding job seekers through the employment process by assisting them in navigating the job portal, identifying wrap-around support services, and connecting with employers for interviews and next steps. This position ensures that job seekers, especially those facing barriers to employment, receive personalized assistance in securing meaningful and sustainable job opportunities. The navigator will also assist our chief workforce officer with our apprenticeship training programs by scheduling trainings, conducting interview sessions, meeting with stakeholders, and performing other duties as assigned.

Key Responsibilities

Job Search Assistance:

• Help job seekers create, update, and optimize resumes and cover letters.
• Provide guidance on using the job portal to search and apply for opportunities.
• Assist applicants in understanding job descriptions, application requirements, and qualifications.
• Conduct one-on-one and group coaching sessions on job search strategies, interview preparation, and workplace readiness.

Wrap-Around Services & Support:

• Identify and connect job seekers with resources such as transportation, childcare, housing, and workforce training programs.
• Partner with community organizations to provide supportive services for individuals facing employment barriers.
• Advocate for job seekers by addressing challenges related to employment retention and stability.

Employer & Interview Coordination:

• Work closely with employers to identify job openings and hiring needs.
• Facilitate introductions and schedule interviews between job seekers and employers.
• Provide job seekers with post-interview feedback and next-step recommendations.
• Develop and maintain relationships with employers to create ongoing job placement opportunities.

Data & Program Support:

• Track and document job seeker progress, employment placements, and service referrals.
• Maintain accurate records in the job portal system and generate reports as needed.
• Collaborate with workforce development partners to enhance job seeker outcomes.

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent required; associate’s or bachelor’s degree in human services, workforce development, business, or a related field preferred.
• Experience: 1-3 years in career coaching, job placement, social services, workforce development, or related fields.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to build rapport with diverse populations.
• Knowledge of local labor market trends, employment resources, and community support services.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Google Suite, and job portal systems, and general technology use
• Bilingual skills (preferred but not required).

Work Environment:

• Combination of in-office, virtual, and community-based work.
• Some local travel may be required to attend job fairs, employer meetings, and community events.

The Athens Area Chamber of Commerce and Athens Achieves are equal opportunity employers. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age (40 or older), disability, genetic information, veteran status, or citizenship, in accordance with federal and state law. We are committed to building a diverse, inclusive workforce and a workplace that values the unique contributions of all individuals. Employment is based upon personal capabilities and qualifications without discrimination or harassment on the basis of any protected characteristic as established by law.