At Risk Youth Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Position Overview

The Out-of-School Specialist, Careers Pathway position plays a critical role in connecting all students, including those who have dropped out or are at risk of dropping out, with educational opportunities, internships, and employment. This position is responsible for identifying and creating pathways for students to return to school, participate in job training programs, or secure employment that helps them achieve their long-term goals. This position will work closely with businesses, educational institutions, and community organizations to place students in settings that support growth, whether through academic programs, trade apprenticeships, or job placements. The OSS Careers Pathway position will help ensure that students receive the resources and guidance needed for a successful transition to post-school life.

Essential Functions

Community Engagement 

• Actively cultivates and maintains robust relationships with a broad spectrum of employers, securing a variety of career exploration and skill development opportunities that align with student interests and market demands. 
• Cultivates and mobilizes community resources, develops partnerships and collaborations that support educational experience, and opens new pathways for iJAG students. 

 Work-based Learning:

• Design and implement comprehensive work-based learning (WBL) programs that integrate academic learning with practical workplace experiences, preparing students for life after high school by developing their professional skills and helping them understand industry expectations.
• Coordinate student placements in work-based learning settings, including internships and apprenticeships, that support the students' Individual Career and Academic Plan (ICAP) and employer needs.
• Maintain consistent communication with students throughout their WBL experiences to monitor attendance, provide coaching and support, address workplace challenges, and guide students in reflecting on their learning and skill development.
• Serve as the primary liaison between the school and employer to establish clear expectations, ensure student safety, and monitor student progress throughout the WBL experience.
• Ensure completion of all required documentation (e.g., training agreements, work permits, evaluations) and track student placements, hours, and outcomes.

Student Recruitment, Engagement, and Follow-up:

• Partner with school administration to identify and select eligible students and proactively promote the iJAG program within the school community to build and sustain a strong student cohort.  
• Provide individualized guidance and resources to support graduating seniors and recent graduates as they transition into employment, postsecondary education, military service, or training programs.
• Conduct regular outreach during the first year after graduation to monitor progress, document outcomes (e.g., employment, enrollment, certifications), and identify emerging needs or challenges.
• Connect graduates with community resources and local agencies (e.g., workforce development, mental health, housing, transportation) and encourage continued engagement through alum events, mentorship, and feedback opportunities.
• Identify and connect current students, dropouts, and at-risk youth with re-engagement options—including returning to school, enrolling in DMACC WBL 100, participating in PBL-based iJAG courses, or accessing training programs such as YouthBuild.

Instructional Delivery and Classroom Management:

• Employ project-based learning (PBL) methodologies to develop engaging, transformative educational journeys that seamlessly bridge classroom theory and real-world applications, enriching students’ practical understanding and skills. 
• Utilize iJAG's competency-based approach to guide project development and cultivate a student-centered learning environment that fosters critical thinking, creativity, and personalized growth.
• Develop and maintain a positive, structured learning environment that promotes student engagement and participation through effective classroom management strategies, adapting techniques to meet learners' diverse needs, and ensuring equitable access to learning opportunities.
• Implement effective behavior management plans and conflict-resolution strategies to cultivate a safe, respectful classroom culture, enabling students to focus on their academic and personal growth in a supportive, inclusive setting.
• Facilitate Resiliency-Focused iJAG Course: Lead daily lessons that build self-awareness, emotional regulation, problem-solving, and personal empowerment, ensuring students gain practical tools to overcome adversity.
• Support New Students Through Orientation & Transition: Lead Great Oaks orientation sessions to foster a sense of belonging, clarify expectations, and connect new students with resources that support their academic and personal success from day one.

Data Management and Analysis:

• Maintain accurate student records by systematically tracking essential metrics, including attendance, academic performance, and program participation, to effectively monitor and enhance student progress.
• Skillfully analyze data to evaluate the impact of the iJAG program on student outcomes, using insights to identify areas requiring targeted interventions or additional support, thereby optimizing student success.
• Manage and update Individual Development Plans (IDPs) and Individualized Educational Plans (IEPs) for students, participating in relevant meetings to advocate and adapt educational strategies to meet the unique needs of each learner. 

Professional Development:

• Collaborate with the program supervisor and school administration, leveraging collective expertise to drive the program's success and ensure it meets both educational standards and student needs effectively.
• Participate in iJAG and school district professional development activities to stay up to date on best practices and continuously enhance skills and knowledge.

Additional Requirements 

• Demonstrated proficiency in delivering content to diverse audiences and adapting teaching styles to meet the varied needs of students. 
• Excellent communication skills, both written and oral.
• Skilled in leveraging data analytics to refine instructional approaches and enhance student achievement. 
• Skilled in building supportive relationships while upholding professional standards.
• Curriculum development capability and tech-savviness with Microsoft Office and Google apps.
• Ability to learn new software systems.
• Other duties as assigned. 

Education, Experience, and Other Qualifications

• A bachelor's degree in social sciences, counseling, education, or a closely related discipline is required; a master's degree is preferred.
• The ability to obtain an iJAG authorization within six months of hire.
• Current possession of a Work-Based Learning (WBL) Supervisor Authorization or the ability to obtain one within the first 6 months of employment.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and oral.
• Experience working with out-of-school youth.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.

Compensation: The salary range for this position is $49,000 – $53,000 per year based on qualifications and experience. We also offer a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.