Able Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD) Workforce Navigator

Able Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD) Workforce Navigator

Position Summary:

The Workforce Navigator will work within DSS offices to provide direct, individualized support to ABAWD participants. This role is responsible for guiding participants through workforce requirements, connecting them to training and employment opportunities, and ensuring successful transitions from benefits to employment. The ideal candidate is proactive, highly organized, and committed to improving workforce outcomes for underserved populations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Participant Engagement & Navigation

• Provide individualized case management and hands-on support for ABAWD participants
• Conduct intake assessments, develop employment and training plans, and monitor progress
• Assist participants in completing forms, enrolling in training, and accessing supportive services Compliance Support
• Ensure participants meet the 80-hour/month work requirement through employment, training, or approved activities
• Monitor participation to prevent benefit loss and maintain accurate documentation Barrier Removal & Support
• Identify and address barriers such as transportation, childcare, housing instability, or other obstacles
• Provide real-time problem-solving and guidance to ensure consistent engagement Training & Career Pathway Support
• Connect participants to high-demand short-term credential programs and pre-apprenticeships in sectors such as: o Healthcare (CNA/GNA) o Transportation (CDL-B) o Skilled trades (HVAC, construction) o Logistics, hospitality, and other priority industries
• Support program enrollment, completion, and job placement Partnership & System Coordination
• Collaborate with DSS offices, training providers, the College of Southern Maryland, WIOA partners, SNAP E&T vendors, apprenticeship sponsors, and local employers
• Provide the necessary and timely participant documentation to enable WORKS data entry to be completed by LDSS staff
• Ensure smooth communication, efficient case coordination, and effective transitions between services Employer Engagement
• Build and maintain relationships with local employers to identify job opportunities aligned with participant skills and training
• Support job placement and early retention Data & Performance Tracking
• Track participant engagement, training completion, and employment outcomes
• Maintain detailed case management notes
• Contribute to grant reporting requirements and program evaluation

Supervisory Responsibilities:

None Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to establish rapport and build relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Self-motivated, tenacious, and results-oriented, with a proven track record of meeting or exceeding targets.
• Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook; experienced with databases, data entry, and electronic file management. Able to learn new systems quickly, generate reports, and troubleshoot routine technical issues while maintaining accuracy and confidentiality.
• Knowledge of Southern Maryland community, employment, and labor market trends.
• Strong time management skills necessary.
• Ability to work in a rapidly changing environment.
• Ability to demonstrate the Southern Maryland JobSource core values in the performance of position duties.

Our values include accountability, respect, integrity, responsiveness, and knowledge.