Workforce Development Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: WIOA In-School Youth Support Specialist

Department: Workforce Development

Reports To: Director of Workforce Development

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt (Hourly)
Location: Springfield, MA
Employment Type: Full-Time

Salary Range: $21.50 to $22.50 per hour

About New North Citizens’ Council (NNCC)

New North Citizens’ Council is a community-based nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for residents through education, workforce development, family support, and community services. NNCC is committed to equity, inclusion, and culturally responsive service delivery.

Position Summary

The WIOA In-School Youth Support Specialist provides case management, career exploration, and supportive services to high school juniors and seniors participating in the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) In-School Youth Program. Reporting to the Director of Workforce Development, this position helps youth overcome barriers to success by connecting them with education, workforce development, supportive services, and career opportunities that prepare them for post-secondary education and employment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

(Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.)

Participant Recruitment & Case Management

• Recruit, assess, and enroll eligible youth into the WIOA In-School Youth Program.
• Conduct participant assessments and develop individualized service strategies (ISS) that support educational and career goals.
• Maintain an active caseload and provide ongoing case management, mentoring, and participant support.
• Maintain regular communication with participants through in-person meetings, phone calls, text messages, and home visits, when appropriate.
• Assist participants in overcoming barriers related to education, employment, transportation, housing, and other supportive service needs.

Career & Workforce Development

• Deliver services aligned with WIOA program elements, including career exploration, work readiness, financial literacy, leadership development, and post-secondary planning.
• Connect participants to tutoring, mentoring, vocational training, internships, work experiences, and employment opportunities.
• Support youth in developing workplace readiness, communication, problem-solving, and professional skills.
• Coordinate referrals to community resources, behavioral health providers, and other supportive services.

Program Coordination & Community Engagement

• Build collaborative relationships with schools, employers, workforce partners, and community organizations.
• Participate in school meetings, career fairs, workforce events, and community outreach activities.
• Assist with workshops, employer visits, job fairs, and participant engagement events.
• Represent NNCC and the WIOA In-School Youth Program at community meetings and outreach events.

Documentation & Compliance

• Maintain accurate participant files, service documentation, case notes, and program records.
• Enter participant information into required data management systems.
• Monitor participant progress toward educational, employment, and program goals.
• Assist with data collection, reporting, and performance outcomes required by funding agencies.
• Maintain compliance with WIOA regulations, agency policies, and confidentiality requirements.

Professional Development

• Participate in required trainings, staff meetings, and professional development activities.
• Maintain current knowledge of workforce development, youth engagement, trauma-informed care, and motivational interviewing practices.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Minimum of one (1) year of experience working with adolescents or young adults in education, workforce development, case management, or community-based programs.
• Knowledge of youth development, workforce readiness, career planning, and community resources.
• Strong communication, organizational, and relationship-building skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and electronic case management systems.
• Valid Massachusetts driver's license and reliable transportation.

Preferred Qualifications

Core Competencies

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Work is performed in office, school, and community settings.
• Regular travel throughout the service area is required.
• Occasional evening or weekend activities may be necessary.
• Ability to lift and carry materials weighing up to 25 pounds.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

New North Citizens’ Council is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under federal, state, or local law.

ADA & Reasonable Accommodation Statement

NNCC is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

At-Will Employment Disclaimer

Employment with NNCC is at-will and may be terminated by either the employee or the organization at any time, with or without cause or notice, in accordance with applicable law.