Career Navigator

Career Navigator

EdAdvance University Pathways Program (UPP) at Post University ~ Waterbury, CT
Salary: Compensation is commensurate with the level of education, experience, and specialized expertise required for this position, with higher salary ranges reflecting roles that demand more advanced qualifications and skill sets.

Position Overview

In collaboration with the UPP coordinator and special education teachers, the Career Navigator supports students in the transition program by guiding them in identifying and pursuing meaningful, realistic career pathways. This role centers on aligning each student's unique strengths, interests, and abilities with current labor market opportunities while fostering independence and career readiness. The Career Navigator also cultivates and maintains partnerships with community employers to expand access to experiential learning opportunities.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide guidance in exploring realistic career options based on individual interests, abilities, and job market outlook
• Develop career goal plans/portfolios in collaboration with students, families, and special education teacher
• Develop and maintain relationships with local businesses, organizations, and community partners
• Identify and secure job shadowing experiences, internships, and off-campus job sites that align with student interests and program goals
• Prepare students for participation in community-based work experiences, including communication, professionalism, and workplace expectations
• Serve as a liaison between program/students/employer
• Provide on-site support as needed to ensure student success
• Participate in team meetings to discuss student progress and adjust career plans as needed
• Maintain accurate documentation of student progress, placements, and employer engagement
• Identify alternative pathways to reaching career goals, including certification/credentialing programs
• Collaborate with special education teachers to assist students with resume development, job applications, and interview preparation
• Provide guidance on workplace accommodations and self-advocacy
• Collaborate with special education teachers to support students in transitioning from the program to competitive employment or other postsecondary training/higher education programs

Required Education And Experience

• Bachelor's degree (in related field preferred)
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with diverse populations and commitment to access, equity, and inclusion (transition age students preferred)
• Ability to motivate and support diverse learners
• Knowledge of career development strategies and labor market trends
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills
• Experience building and maintaining partnerships with employers, community organizations/partners
• Proficient in Google/Microsoft

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience working with high school students and families on academic planning, post-secondary advising, and career readiness
• Experience with dual enrollment, concurrent enrollment, internships, pre-apprenticeships, or other work-based learning models
• Familiarity with career pathways and workforce development systems
• Experience using student data to inform interventions, program design, and continuous improvement
• Experience with grants management, grant implementation, reporting, and/or fundraising
• Experience college and career counseling, work-based learning coordination, pathway development, or a related field

Application Procedure

Applications should be submitted for consideration by visiting EdAdvance's employment page at, http://edadvance.org/about-us/employment, and click on the APPLY button next to the job posting of interest.

EdAdvance does not discriminate in any of its programs, activities or employment practices on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, religion, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran, marital or familial status, pregnancy, genetic information, or status as a domestic violence victim, (along with any other classification protected by law).

To file a complaint of discrimination, write Director, Office of Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education, Washington, DC 20250-9410, or the Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities, 450 Columbus Boulevard, Hartford, CT 06103.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and applicable state law, we provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position. Applicants requiring an accommodation to complete the application or interview process should contact Human Resources.