Migrant And Seasonal Farmworker Outreach Specialist

Would you like to be part of an amazing team that makes Arizona stronger by helping Arizonans reach their full potential through temporary assistance for those in need, and care for the vulnerable? The Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) is looking for individuals that are committed to service, community, and teamwork. To learn more about DES please visit des.az.gov; or click on the link here to view 'Our DES' video.
The Department of Economic Security, Division of Employment and Rehabilitation Services (DERS) strengthens Arizona communities by bridging and minimizing gaps to employment and independence.
We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated individual to join our team as a Migrant and Seasonal Farmworker Outreach Specialist with the Workforce Development Administration (WDA). This position is responsible for providing a wide range of employment-related services to engage, advise, prepare, and match job seekers with Arizona businesses and enable job seekers to: get a job, maintain or strengthen current employment, or build a sustainable career. Services are provided through 1:1 or group interactions and will include client-facing, virtual/digital or telephonic means. Services provided may be for one or more programs within the Administration and may focus on specialized populations depending on assignment. This position will be required to utilize a business methodology that drives continuous improvement.
Must be willing and able to work in places of client gathering; housing or farm locations; rural remote areas of the state; and working outside of traditional 8-5 work hours.

The State of Arizona strives for a work culture that affords employees flexibility, autonomy, and trust. Across our many agencies, boards, and commissions, many State employees participate in the State's Remote Work Program and are able to work remotely in their homes, in offices, and in hoteling spaces. All work, including remote work, should be performed within Arizona unless an exception is properly authorized in advance.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
Perform outreach and case management functions such as: assessing skills, abilities, work history, employment barriers and career interests, retention follow-up; developing employment plans; determine eligibility for services; providing information on the Labor Market, In-Demand industries, and occupations; and identifying and coordinating with formal and informal resources to remove barriers, develop skills, and achieve certifications.
Use databases to register & refer job seekers; complete and maintain accurate records and reports for performance and reporting requirements in accordance with quality and quantity standards mandated by various laws, rules, and federal regulations.
Provide customer service, and program information to job seekers, colleagues, and the business community; maintain positive working relationships with local partners, community organizations, and other agency personnel; resolution of customer issues and complaints; and utilization of veteran priority of service (VPOS) for veteran clients (as applicable).

Knowledge of Labor Market Information and In-demand Industries and Occupations.
Knowledge of interviewing techniques, assessment tools and strategies, and transferable skills.
Skill in customer service, teamwork, collaboration, and interpersonal communication, including de-escalation and conflict resolution.
Skill in written and verbal communication, including public speaking, presentation, and interviewing.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Google, database systems, computers, and technology-based platforms that interface directly with applicants and job seekers such as Google Meets, Zoom, and other video conferencing technologies to interview participants, elicit information, assess skills, knowledge, ability, work history, and interest while maintaining client confidentiality.
Ability to learn & apply applicable federal and state laws, regulations, and procedures, to include Department of Labor, Department of Economic Security, and Department of Administration rules, policies, and procedures.

The ideal candidate for this position will have:
High school diploma or equivalent.
Two (2) years of public contact or customer service work experience, employment counseling, or recruitment.
Experience working with farmworkers, refugees, and veterans; service-connected disabled veteran with other than a dishonorable discharge,

Candidates for this position shall be subject to a search of both the Child Protective Services Central Registry pursuant to A.R.S. 8-804 and the Adult Protective Services Registry pursuant to A.R.S. 46-459.
Successfully pass background and reference checks; employment is contingent upon completion of the above-mentioned process and the agency's ability to reasonably accommodate any restrictions.
All newly hired State employees are subject to and must successfully complete the Electronic Employment Eligibility Verification Program (E-Verify).
This position will require a current, valid Arizona Driver's License. This position requires driving or the use of a vehicle as an essential function of the job to conduct State business; therefore, the following requirements apply: Driver's License Requirements.

The Arizona Department of Economic Security offers a comprehensive benefits package to include:
Affordable medical, dental, life, and short-term disability insurance plans
Participation in the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS) and long-term disability plans
10 paid holidays per year
Vacation time accrued at 4.00 hours bi-weekly for the first 3 years
Paid Parental Leave-Up to 12 weeks per year paid leave for newborn or newly-placed foster/adopted child (pilot program).
Sick time accrued at 3.70 hours bi-weekly
Deferred compensation plan
Wellness plans
Tuition Reimbursement
Stipend Opportunities
Infant at Work Program
Rideshare and Public Transit Subsidy
Career Advancement & Employee Development Opportunities
Flexible schedules to create a work/life balance

Learn more about the Paid Parental Leave pilot program here. For a complete list of benefits provided by The State of Arizona, please visit our benefits page

State employees are required to participate in the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS), the State sponsored retirement contribution plan and the Long-Term Disability (LTD) program after a 27-week waiting period. The ASRS defined benefit plan provides for life-long income upon retirement. You will also have the option to participate in a voluntary deferred compensation program to take advantage of tax-deferred retirement investments.
On, or shortly after, your first day of work you will be provided with additional information about the available insurance plans, enrollment instructions, submission deadlines and effective dates.

For questions about this career opportunity, please contact Theresa Sumner at (480) 679.2319 or email TSumner@azdes.gov. 

The State of Arizona is an Equal Opportunity/Reasonable Accommodation Employer. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation such as a sign language interpreter or an alternative format by contacting (480) 679.2319 or emailing TSumner@azdes.gov. Requests should be made as early as possible to allow time to arrange the accommodation.