Youth Program Manager

Accountability:

Responsible for the program management for the WIOA Youth Elevate grant in Boone and Winnebago counties. The Youth Program Manager will implement Youth programming in accordance with WIOA contracted scope of services, including an emphasis on contextualized and integrated work-based learning and WIOA Federal, State, and local procedures and policies. Manager will implement and oversee the vision, strategies, and activities of the grant and coordinate partners to support the achievement of performance goals and measures for participants, employers, and the community.

Responsibilities & Essential Functions:

People Management

• Responsible for training and supervising Youth Program Staff and partner staff.
• Facilitate meetings with staff and partners to promote frequent communication.
• Evaluate staff performance and makes recommendations for corrective actions as needed.

Program Management

• Implement and coordinate the required activities of the WIOA Youth Elevate grant.
• Meet specific performance measures set forth by funding agencies.
• Report WIOA performance measures and other identified data to the partner and The Workforce Connection staff as requested.
• Work with WIOA Compliance Manager to ensure policies and procedures are up to date and in compliance with WIOA Federal, state, and local guidelines.
• Innovate to provide effective, customer centered services for youth.

Community Engagement

• Coordinate with training, employment, and community partners to offer essential services and supports.
• Work in collaboration with partners and The Workforce Connection staff to identify outreach and recruitment strategies.
• Implement additional access points in Boone and Winnebago counties to make services accessible to target populations.
• Communicate effectively with individuals, partnering agencies, and employers.
• Build and maintain employer and community partner relationships.
• Work with partners to identify strategies for continuous improvement of career services.

The above list of responsibilities is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities or duties required. Employees are expected to perform other duties as assigned.

Environment:

The work is conducted at The Workforce Connection facilities in Winnebago and Boone counties, with travel to partner and employer locations. Work includes regular collaboration with internal and external stakeholders. Hours are primarily daytime hours, but on occasion, can include evening and/or weekend hours. The environment is typically climate-controlled and may include moderate noise from conversations, phones, and office equipment. The role requires sitting for extended periods, regular computer use, and occasional movement throughout the building to support program needs.

Sensory and Physical Requirements:

Ability to efficiently and effectively perform all functions of the job. Ability to clearly communicate program details and information to both funders and the public

Characteristic Functions:

• Professional approach to work. Required to work with a variety of audiences including funders and community leaders to collaborate and expand programs.
• Ability to manage staff and participants effectively.
• Ability to create innovative solutions with partners to ensure equity of access and outcomes.

Principal Challenges:

• Working with diverse staff and partners to ensure appropriate and effective services.

Disclaimer:

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. The employee will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by the employee's supervisor. Requirements are representative of the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, and/or abilities to perform this job successfully. The incumbent will possess the abilities or aptitude to perform each duty proficiently. All requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate persons with disabilities. Some requirements may exclude individuals who represent a direct threat or significant risk to the health and safety of themselves or other employees.

Goodwill of Northern Illinois is an equal opportunity employer.

This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise. The employment relationship is at will.

Qualifications & Basic Job Requirements:

• A combination of education and relevant work experience that aligns with the duties of this position. Bachelor's degree in relevant field preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with diverse groups.
• The ability to motivate and assist individuals in performing work.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to travel within Goodwill's territory on a regular schedule. Driver's license and proof of auto insurance required.

Benefits

• Health & Wellness: Medical, dental, vision insurance, basic and voluntary life insurance as well as short-term disability and employee assistance program.
• Financial Security: Competitive salary, retirement plans with employer discretionary match, and bonus opportunity.
• Work-Life Balance: Paid time off, and flexible schedule.
• Professional Growth: Training programs, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement opportunities.
• Perks & Extras: Employee discounts, and a supportive, inclusive workplace.