We're Hiring a Career Navigator, Excelerators
About the Position
Salary Range: Starting at $50,000
The Career Navigator supports youth, particularly those with disabilities, in accessing and navigating career opportunities. They work directly with Connected Lane County youth during Drop-In hours as well as coordinate with in school transition specialists serving youth enrolled in CTE programs to provide support and recommend accommodations, as needed. This work is funded by the Pathways Project from the University of Oregon’s Center for Human Development, which works to find employment opportunities for in school and out-of-school youth with disabilities. This role collaborates with the Excelerator team to ensure Connected Lane County effectively reaches youth who require career guidance and face significant barriers.
We are looking for someone enthusiastic about our mission, passionate about helping youth succeed, and who brings a strong growth mindset. The ideal candidate enjoys working directly with youth to help them overcome barriers, works well in a team setting, and brings a creative approach to solving problems.
Day-to-Day Responsibilities
- Serve as a trusted mentor and resource for youth in need of employment and occupational support.
- Conduct intake interviews with youth and create personalized support plans; thoughtfully consider unique abilities and accommodations youth require as related to disabilities or other factors.
- Travel to select Lane County high schools to present engagement opportunities to transition youth.
- Support youth in Drop-In hours during regularly scheduled times.
- Provide guidance in accessing employment services, including resume writing, interview preparation, job application assistance, and general employment skills development.
- Connect youth with social and government resources as needed.
- Encourage participation in community events focused on career exploration and opportunities.
- Support youth in developing life skills such as financial literacy, time management, and teamwork.
- Collaborate internally to provide additional youth resources, internship opportunities, and training.
- Collect data on services provided for reporting purposes and contribute to the program's continuous improvement.
- Maintain a working knowledge of federal and state ADA laws and regulations.
- Participate in meetings, conferences, and training, as required by the organization and position.
- Perform additional duties as assigned.
Core Competencies
- Knowledge of Community Resources: Familiarity with local businesses, community organizations, educational and health services, and resources for individuals with disabilities.
- Communication Skills: Strong oral and written communication skills are essential for building positive relationships with diverse youth and stakeholders.
- Interpersonal Skills: Ability to consistently promote a welcoming environment that encourages youth involvement and empowerment. Strong relationship-building skills with youth and partners are vital.
- Organizational Skills: Highly developed organizational skills and the ability to meet deadlines.
- Initiative and Teamwork: Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
- Creative Problem-Solving: Ability to approach challenges with a learning mindset and try new approaches.
- Collaboration: Ability to work harmoniously with internal staff, grantors, and agency partners.
- Presentation and Facilitation: Skilled in presenting and facilitating discussions with diverse groups, and synthesizing information for program development.
Qualifications and Requirements
Education and Experience
- An associate’s degree or more than two years of advanced education/experience in education or social services is preferred.
- At least one year of successful experience working in a public school or community setting with underserved youth related to employment readiness and/or transitions to post-secondary education opportunities.
- Successful experience working with individuals with disabilities in any capacity preferred.
- Any license or certification recognized by the Oregon Health Authority is preferred (ie. Peer Support Specialist, Personal Health Navigator, Community Health Worker).
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Strong understanding of federal and state ADA laws and regulations required.
- Proficiency with Google Suite is preferred.
- A valid Oregon driver’s license or the ability to obtain one by the hire date is required.
- A First Aid/CPR card is preferred.
- Must be willing to undergo a background check.
- Spanish-speaking bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply.
How to Apply
Please submit the following materials to hr@connectedlane.org.
- Your resume with references included.
- Your cover letter.
- One letter of recommendation (optional).
Working at Connected Lane County
We are committed to creating a work environment and culture where our team members grow and thrive. Our team works hard every day to directly impact the lives of youth in Lane County. While much of our work is conducted from computer displays that require repetitive motions, employees may frequently be required to support program events and activities that include bending, reaching, standing, interacting with youth and volunteers, lifting/moving heavy objects, driving to-and-from events, and more.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Connected Lane County is an equal-opportunity employer that values diversity. Data shows diverse teams are innovative, make better decisions, and are better able to engage employees. We are committed to hiring people who bring new perspectives and experiences to our team. Connected Lane County does not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability.
