Placement Coach

Summary of Responsibilities

The Placement Coach at Highlands College provides direct placement coaching and placement readiness support to Highlands College and HCLI students and alumni. This role guides students through calling and career exploration, professional preparation, and the internship and job search process. Responsibilities include meeting individually with students, assisting with workshops and placement events, contributing to the development of placement resources, and supporting the implementation of placement services initiatives and the Placement Pathway. The Placement Coach equips students with the skills and confidence needed to pursue internships, employment, and placement in the ministry workforce.

Specific Duties and Responsibilities

• Meet individually with students to guide career exploration, calling clarity, and vocational direction.
• Follow up with students after coaching sessions to encourage progress, reinforce next steps, and support accountability in their placement journey.
• Coach students in developing professional materials including resumes, cover letters, and ministry portfolios.
• Prepare students for interviews through mock interviews and practical feedback.
• Help students develop professional habits such as communication, responsiveness, and follow-through.
• Maintain familiarity with the Placement Job Board and guide students in navigating opportunities effectively.
• Support the coordination and facilitation of career readiness workshops, events, and training sessions.
• Aid in the support of Placement Department events that connect students with ministry partners, alumni, and employers.
• Manage updates to the Placement Department’s student resource pages within myHC SharePoint to ensure information remains accurate and accessible.
• Support the management and organization of the Placement Pathway within Blackboard and Symplicity, ensuring materials and content remain current and accessible.
• Review, grade, and provide timely feedback on student submissions within the Placement Pathway to support growth and development.
• Maintain records of student coaching interactions and progress toward placement goals.
• Communicate with the Placement Services Director and Placement team regarding student progress and needs.
• Support the Placement Services Director in coordinating and developing the student leadership team through communication, assignments, scheduling, and meetings.

Qualifications

• Personal Characteristics: Commitment to the mission and values of Highlands College and Church of the Highlands. Strong relational, interpersonal, and communication skills with the ability to build trust with students. Ability to work effectively with students, faculty, and teammates in a collaborative environment. Organized and proactive problem solver who can operate effectively in a fast-paced student development environment. Passion for mentoring and developing students as they prepare for internships, employment, and ministry placement.
• Essential Traits: Coaching mindset. Initiative and ownership. Strong interpersonal skills.
• Abilities & Skills: Ability to coach students through career exploration and professional development. Ability to clearly communicate expectations and provide constructive feedback. Ability to manage multiple student relationships and coaching schedules. Ability to collaborate effectively across teams and departments.
• Knowledge: Understanding career development principles and job search strategies. Familiarity with resume writing, interview preparation, and professional development practices. Knowledge of ministry environments and church leadership structures preferred.
• Education & Experience: Bachelor's degree required. Experience in vocational ministry preferred. Knowledge of career development theories and practices. Familiarity with career tools, resources, and best practices.

Physical Demands

Ability to lift 25 lbs.

Direct Reports

This position is not a team lead for any Highlands College teammates.