Youth Program Career Navigator

About the role

This position assists participants in Wright and Sherburne Counties in identifying strengths, evaluating and overcoming challenges to obtain a path towards long-term employment and self-sufficiency. It places a strong emphasis on connecting youth to high-quality pre-apprenticeship and registered apprenticeship opportunities, helping participants build career pathways in in-demand industries. The role contributes to a healthy and safe work environment for all and involves travel throughout the assigned service area and surrounding areas to recruit and serve youth and young adult participants.

This hybrid position involves working in community schools and the Monticello office approximately 75% of the time, with remote work available for the remainder.

Responsibilities

• Identify and match participants to community resources that support their goals.
• Direct delivery of services to participants; evaluate objectives, activities, time frames, and resources.
• Complete all necessary paperwork in a timely manner.
• Maintain up-to-date case files for each participant, documenting services provided and employment goals.
• Assist CareerForce visitors with online job-search and related activities.
• Recruit, assess, and enroll eligible youth into WIOA programming, with an emphasis on individuals who would benefit from pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship opportunities.
• Develop and maintain partnerships with employers, unions, training providers, and Registered Apprenticeship programs to expand access to work-based learning opportunities.
• Engage in pre-apprenticeship activities that prepare youth for successful entry into Registered Apprenticeships, including:
  • Work readiness and employability skills training.
  • Industry-recognized credential attainment.
  • Career exploration and hands-on learning experiences.
• Coordinate and support youth placement into work-based learning opportunities, including job shadows, internships, on-the-job training, and apprenticeships.
• Provide ongoing support and follow-up services to ensure retention and success in pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship placements.
• Maintain knowledge of internal data management systems and ensure timely, accurate entry of information.
• Review, understand, and implement program and grant plans and procedures.
• Authorize and justify expenditures for support services for individual participants based on their plan and following appropriate policies.
• Effectively utilize training and support budgets for participants.
• Conduct initial enrollment interviews, collect necessary personal data, and perform assessments.
• Administer vocational testing and interpret test results.
• Coach and provide employment counseling on career success skills, interviewing, résumé writing, job search techniques, and job retention.
• Maintain contact with site supervisors, monitor participant progress, attendance, and payroll procedures during work-based learning opportunities.
• Notify participants of employment opportunities and conditions of employment.
• Build caseload through appropriate recruitment efforts.
• Participate in community outreach activities.
• Provide reports to the agency as necessary.
• Demonstrate familiarity with current social media channels and incorporate them into job search activities.

Requirements

• A four-year college degree or equivalent experience in human services or a related field is preferred.
• Proficiency with personal computer usage, Microsoft Office products, email, and internet.
• Demonstrated case management skills.
• Passion for working with and recruiting youth and young adults for services.
• Ability to communicate professionally and effectively with the general public, participants (individuals and groups), and internal staff.
• Highly organized and self-motivated to work independently and manage schedules efficiently.
• Knowledge of job search strategies, including coaching and career counseling.
• Ability to support and motivate participants.
• Must be able to travel as necessary in a 75-mile radius with employee-provided transportation.

Pay

$25.30 - $36.68 / Hourly

Schedule

First (Day) shift

Benefits

• Comprehensive insurance package including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Disability and life insurance supplemental options available.
• Employer contributions to a 403(b) retirement plan.
• Paid time off including vacation, sick, holiday, and personal holiday time.