Youth Career Navigator

Join our Team: Youth Program Specialist / Instructor 

Pathways to Power – Employment Readiness & Case Management

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 Career Navigator serves as a case manager and job coach for participants in the IYIP Pathways to Power program. This role is responsible for comprehensive case management, milestone tracking, and career development coaching for youth ages 16–24. The Navigator helps participants build individualized career goals, complete workforce development modules, and secure employment referrals or training placements.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead recruitment and outreach efforts through community events, school visits, and referrals

• Determine participant eligibility and suitability for program services

• Conduct intake interviews and develop Individual Employment Plans (IEPs)

• Deliver job readiness instruction using Illinois WorkNet, Casey Life Skills, and other tools

• Provide career coaching and ongoing mentorship

• Refer participants to work experience, job openings, or training programs

• Worth with partners to identify job placement opportunities and monitor participant progress

• Track attendance, milestone completion, and stipend eligibility

• Maintain accurate case notes and electronic/paper files

• Generate reports to measure performance outcomes

• Assist with recruitment and program outreach events

• Provide crisis intervention and referral services when needed

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):  ITAV Leadership Academy (South Loop and Bronzeville locations)

Position Type: Full-Time, Grant-Funded

Salary: $56,000

Required Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, Counseling, Education, or related field 

• 3+ years of experience in youth case management, workforce development, or career coaching

• Advanced knowledge of Illinois WorkNet and Casey Life Skills, including experience using these platforms to assess, track, and enhance participant progress.

• Proficiency in Google Docs, Zoom, and digital learning tools

• Strong facilitation, coaching, and documentation skills

• Trauma-informed and culturally responsive approach

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 impac