Youth Specialist Coordinator presso IT TAKES A VILLAGE FAMILY OF SCHOOLS

Description

Join our Team: Youth Specialist Coordinator

About It Takes A Village Family of Schools (ITAV):

ITAV is a beacon for educating and loving Black children. We provide a comprehensive, culturally responsive social justice education and life-empowering social services. At ITAV learning is fun and transformative, teaching is innovative, and knowledge is not bound by the walls of the classroom. Students, staff, and families are empowered to be civically engaged and make positive change by addressing local, national, and global issues.  

Role:
The Youth Specialist Coordinator serves as the lead case manager and job coach for the IYIP Pathways to Power program. In this small team environment, the coordinator plays a hands-on role in directly supporting youth across in-person and virtual cohorts, helping them achieve program milestones and transition into employment. The coordinator also supports the Youth Program Specialist/Instructor, manages participant progress, facilitates job readiness coaching, and ensures that stipend disbursement and data tracking align with grant goals.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Serve as the primary case manager and job coach for participants across both sites.

• Conduct intake interviews, goal setting, and weekly check-ins with youth.

• Support youth in completing Illinois WorkNet modules, Casey Life Skills assessments, resumes, and job applications.

• Facilitate job readiness workshops and individualized job search coaching.

• Track participant progress, attendance, stipend eligibility, and documentation.

• Maintain accurate case notes and contribute to grant reporting.

• Coordinate closely with the Youth Program Specialist/Instructor to monitor cohort engagement.

• Connect participants to employment referrals and support job placement follow-up.

• Attend community events, job fairs, and employer meetings as a program representative.

Why Join Us?

• Impact: Make a significant difference in the lives of children and families in the communities we serve.

• Growth: Opportunities for professional development and advancement within a supportive and mission-driven organization.

• Community: Be part of a dedicated team that values collaboration, innovation, and the collective impact of our work.

Location(s): Location may vary

Position Type: Full-Time

Salary Range: $16.60 Per Hour
Please note: This position may be tied to grant funding 

Qualifications

Required Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in social work, Education, Counseling, or related field (master’s preferred).

• 3+ years of experience in youth case management, workforce development, or related settings.

• Demonstrated knowledge of Illinois WorkNet & Casey Life Skills.

• Strong interpersonal and coaching skills; trauma-informed and youth-centered.

• Experience facilitating job readiness or career development workshops.

• Ability to manage program data and track multiple participants across cycles.

• Commitment to equity, youth empowerment, and postsecondary success.

Who You Are:

• A committed advocate - passionate about social justice and education equity, with a deep commitment to improving access to education for underrepresented communities.

• A meticulous organizer - with exceptional organizational skills with the ability to manage complex processes and multiple priorities efficiently.

• A skilled communicator - excellent verbal and written communication skills, capable of engaging effectively with diverse audiences, including families, community partners, and government agencies.

• A resourceful problem-solver - Proficient in navigating challenges with innovative solutions and a proactive approach to addressing potential obstacles.

Ready to Make a Difference?

If you’re inspired to make a difference in the lives of families and are ready to lead our efforts in providing comprehensive support services, we’d love to hear from you. To apply, please upload your cover letter and resume here.

Compensation and Benefits Package:

• Competitive, transparent pay scale aligned with local public schools

• 80% employer contribution of medical benefits

• Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance

• 3% 401(k) company match

• Up to $10,000 in annual tuition assistance 

• Targeted, ongoing professional development

• International travel opportunities with students

• Opportunities for leadership, growth, and meaningful impact