Offender Employment Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the modern era, the focus on offender employment specialists has never been more critical.

Society progresses, and with each stride, the demand for skilled professionals who can help integrate, support, and stabilize offenders within the workforce grows.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an offender employment specialist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply interested in the intricate dynamics of offender employment,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable offender employment specialist job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Offender Employment Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

Offender Employment Specialists are tasked with assisting former convicts in finding gainful employment and reintegrating them into society.

Their primary focus is to support and guide these individuals towards a positive and productive lifestyle.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Assessing offenders’ skills, education, and work history to determine their employability
• Developing individualized employment plans for each offender
• Providing guidance and advice on job search techniques, resume writing, and interview skills
• Identifying potential employers willing to hire ex-offenders and establishing relationships with them
• Conducting regular follow-ups with offenders to monitor their job search progress
• Organizing employment workshops and training programs to enhance offenders’ skill sets
• Assisting offenders in overcoming potential barriers to employment such as limited work history or lack of transportation
• Working collaboratively with parole officers, social workers, and other professionals involved in the offender’s reintegration process
• Documenting all interactions and progress in a case management system
• Maintaining up-to-date knowledge of laws and regulations related to employment rights for ex-offenders

 

Offender Employment Specialist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Offender Employment Specialist to assist in providing employment opportunities for individuals with criminal records.

The job involves connecting offenders with suitable job opportunities and vocational training programs, providing career guidance, and enhancing their employability skills.

Our ideal candidate has a strong understanding of the rehabilitation process and has experience in human resources or employment services.

The role of the Offender Employment Specialist is to support offenders in their journey to reintegrate into society through sustainable employment.

 

Responsibilities

• Identify suitable employment opportunities for individuals with criminal records
• Assist in developing vocational training programs
• Provide career counseling and job search assistance
• Establish and maintain relationships with potential employers
• Oversee the development of job readiness skills, such as resume writing and interview techniques
• Track employment outcomes and progress
• Work closely with correctional officers, probation officers, and social workers
• Advocate for fair employment opportunities for offenders
• Maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical standards

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience in employment services, human resources, or related field
• Knowledge of the criminal justice system and rehabilitation processes
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion
• Strong problem-solving skills and a passion for helping others
• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Criminal Justice, Human Resources, or a related field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Offender Employment Specialist
• Work Environment: This role may require travel to correctional facilities, probation offices, or vocational training centers. Some office work is also required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Rehabilitation Program Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $70,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Offender Employment Specialist Do?

An Offender Employment Specialist typically works within the criminal justice system or correctional facilities to help rehabilitate offenders and reintegrate them into society.

They assess the skills, education, and work history of offenders and develop a personalized employment plan for them.

This often includes providing career counseling and guidance, job readiness training, and assistance with job search strategies.

The role requires them to liaise with potential employers to identify suitable job opportunities and to advocate on behalf of the offender.

They may also assist with job applications, interviews, and resume preparation.

Offender Employment Specialists work closely with other professionals such as probation officers, social workers, and therapists to support the offender’s overall rehabilitation and reintegration process.

They also monitor and track the progress of offenders in their employment journey, and offer continuous support as they transition back into the workforce.

In some cases, Offender Employment Specialists may also conduct workshops or group sessions on topics such as job search skills, interviewing techniques, and workplace etiquette.

Overall, their main objective is to support offenders in gaining meaningful employment, which in turn helps to reduce recidivism and promotes positive community reintegration.

 

Offender Employment Specialist Qualifications and Skills

An Offender Employment Specialist should possess a unique set of skills and qualifications that help them in assisting offenders with job placement, such as:

• Extensive knowledge of job markets, employment practices, and vocational training resources to help offenders find appropriate employment opportunities
• Excellent interpersonal skills to effectively communicate with a diverse range of individuals, often in challenging situations
• Strong interviewing skills to assess the skills, qualifications, and interests of the offenders to match them with suitable jobs
• Ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders including probation officers, social workers, employers, and family members
• Excellent problem-solving skills to identify and overcome barriers to employment for offenders
• Strong documentation and reporting skills for keeping accurate records of offender’s progress
• Counseling skills to provide support and guidance to offenders regarding employment and career development
• Knowledge of legal guidelines and regulations associated with offender employment
• High degree of patience, empathy, and resilience to handle the challenges associated with the role

 

Offender Employment Specialist Experience Requirements

Offender Employment Specialists typically require a bachelor’s degree in counseling, social work, psychology, or a related field, and at least 2 to 3 years of experience in the field of offender rehabilitation or social work.

This experience could be gained through internships, part-time roles, or full-time positions working with offenders, at-risk individuals, or in community development.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience may have more extensive knowledge and skill in counseling, case management, and resource coordination.

They might have worked in prisons, probation departments, or in community-based programs, where they have developed their abilities to assess, guide, and support offenders in their career development and job placement process.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are likely to have developed a strong network of relationships with potential employers and local community resources.

They may also have experience in program development, management, or in a supervisory role.

These candidates may be ready for managerial or leadership positions in offender employment services or related areas.

 

Offender Employment Specialist Education and Training Requirements

Offender Employment Specialists typically require a bachelor’s degree in social work, human services, criminal justice, or a related field.

They are expected to have a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system, labor market, and the specific challenges faced by offenders seeking employment.

In-depth knowledge in counseling, case management, and rehabilitation strategies is crucial.

Specific coursework or training in these areas is often beneficial.

Many roles also require prior experience working with offenders or in related social service roles, such as social work or counseling.

Some states require Offender Employment Specialists to obtain a relevant professional license or certification, which generally requires a degree, a certain amount of field experience, and passing a licensing exam.

Continuing education and ongoing training to stay updated with the latest trends and practices in the field is also highly recommended.

Certifications in areas such as career counseling or job placement may also be beneficial and could indicate a candidate’s dedication to their professional development.

A master’s degree in counseling, social work, or a related field may be preferred for certain advanced roles.

 

Offender Employment Specialist Salary Expectations

An Offender Employment Specialist can expect to earn an average salary of $45,000 (USD) per year.

However, this can vary significantly based on the specialist’s level of experience, qualifications, and location.

Additionally, the salary may also depend on the specific organization or agency that employs them.

 

Offender Employment Specialist Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Offender Employment Specialist need?

An Offender Employment Specialist should have excellent interpersonal skills to communicate effectively with offenders and potential employers.

They should be empathetic, understanding, and patient.

Strong organizational, counseling and negotiation skills are also essential to help offenders find suitable jobs.

They must also possess knowledge of job market trends, employment laws, and the challenges faced by offenders in employment.

 

Do Offender Employment Specialists need a degree?

Yes, most Offender Employment Specialists need a bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, counseling, or a related field.

Some positions may require a master’s degree.

Experience working with offenders or in a similar counseling role can also be beneficial.

 

What should you look for in an Offender Employment Specialist resume?

First and foremost, check their educational qualifications.

They should hold a degree in a relevant field.

Experience in career counseling, especially with offenders, is a huge plus.

Also, look for skills such as communication, empathy, patience, and organization.

Any certifications or additional training in counseling or rehabilitation can also be a good sign.

 

What qualities make a good Offender Employment Specialist?

A good Offender Employment Specialist is compassionate and non-judgmental, allowing them to work effectively with offenders.

They should be patient, as this job can require a lot of time and effort.

They must be great communicators, capable of negotiating with potential employers and communicating effectively with offenders.

They should also be knowledgeable about the job market and employment laws to guide offenders in the right direction.

 

What are the daily duties of an Offender Employment Specialist?

The daily duties of an Offender Employment Specialist can vary, but typically involve counseling offenders about job skills and employment opportunities, identifying potential employers, negotiating with them to provide job opportunities for offenders, and monitoring the job performance of placed offenders.

They may also provide support in resume writing and interview skills, and guide offenders in dealing with potential barriers to employment.

 

Conclusion

There you have it.

Today, we’ve given you a glimpse into the fulfilling world of an offender employment specialist.

Surprised?

It’s not just about finding job placements.

It’s about rebuilding lives, one employment opportunity at a time.

With our comprehensive offender employment specialist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make a difference.

But why stop there?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your tool for creating precision-crafted job listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every job placement contributes to a larger mission.

Let’s create a better future. Together.

How to Become an Offender Employment Specialist (Complete Guide)

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