Education Specialist

About the role

USI is a national nonprofit with extensive experience in the design and implementation of place-based human capital development strategies in communities that are undergoing comprehensive physical revitalization. Founded in 1978, USI is a leader in community development, supporting over 30,000 economically stressed families, approximately 100,000 individuals, in 53 communities in 28 major metropolitan areas. USI represents a movement towards a future where all children and families will be stable and thriving, supported by our unwavering dedication to being results-based, data-driven, and equity-centered.

Responsibilities

• Support students in their educational and workforce transitions, offering readiness assistance such as job training, internships, and career counseling.
• Engage and assist parents and families, providing support both at school and at home.
• Coordinate community-based support for students, fostering their ongoing connection to the community and success in post-secondary education and the workforce.
• Ensure access to social, health, nutrition, and mental health services for families and students, while actively promoting attendance strategies.
• Compile and analyze research data for decision-making purposes and represent Urban Strategies at local meetings, providing detailed reports.
• Troubleshoot education-related issues and align services with Family Support Specialists.
• Assist families in navigating school choice options and maintain education data integrity within LEARN.
• Participate in national education webinars and training opportunities to enhance skills.
• Foster successful educational partnerships by tracking leverage, facilitating data sharing, and collaborating on initiatives with partners.
• Develop and update an Educational Resource Portfolio.
• Provide resources and knowledge for clients to access capital, including loans for financial goals like housing and consumer products, to build credit, reduce debt, and support wealth growth through entrepreneurship.
• Offer consultation services in financial management and goal-setting.
• Host in-person and virtual seminars for clients seeking financial literacy management resources and capital access.
• Support and promote the development of the USI CDFI client base.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in human services or related field required.
• 3 years of project management experience, including complex contracts or grants administration for 2 years.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, ability to work in cross-disciplinary teams.
• Excellent organizational, planning, and time management skills.
• Experience in case management, service coordination, and relationship building.
• Proficient in MS Office Suite and desktop publishing software, SPSS proficiency is advantageous.
• Passion for social entrepreneurship and ability to handle confidential information professionally.
• Flexibility for evening/weekend functions and travel.
• Knowledge of the local community is preferred.
• Knowledge of the community and area at which the position serves.

Reports to: Assistant Project Manager • Location: Norfolk, VA