The Career Specialist will be professional, organized, and knowledgeable of accessing educational, vocational and employment support resources for the BBBSLI mentees, “littles”. The Rise Up Career Specialist will influence educational and career success by working with high school aged students, administrators, community, and corporate partners. Strong desire and commitment to work with youth to promote educational, vocational and employment success.

Essential Responsibilities

• Manage program for youth age 14+ to determine a high school and post-secondary plan for their future.
• Build awareness of Big Brothers Big Sisters of LI through presentations, speaking engagements, in-person meetings and networking with schools/educators, community organizations, corporations, faith-based institutions, and other appropriate groups. 
• Plan, facilitate and host educational and vocational workshops for Mentees on High School proficiency test requirements, college readiness and career topics.
• Plan and facilitate monthly or bi-weekly sessions for in person meetings with students and mentors.
• Coordinate pre-vocational services, organize, and plan career exploration activities and trips; conduct job readiness workshops and training to youth in order to make them more employable.
• Plan and execute various aspects of match activities and other program enhancements for participants of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island Rise Up program. 
• Support mentees by connecting participants with external community partners and resources, both through established agency partnerships as well as creating new collaborations. 
• Create and manage curricula development; prepare training materials for match participants
• Responsible for consistent and ongoing communication with school personnel, college administrators, Volunteers and business professionals building strong relationships to assist in growing the program.
• Identify and implement growth strategies to achieve long-term vision of impact on youth in our program – this includes program expansion and scale
• Manages execution of grant deliverables
• Liaise with the Board, Education leaders, Employers, and key external partners to increase scale and impact of Program
• Attend/participate in agency sponsored events
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications/Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required; preference given to human services, education, or similar focus.
• 3-5 years of demonstrated experience working with youth development organization.
• Knowledge of educational systems and employment opportunities
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and Database Programs
• Excellent time management, organizational and multi-tasking skills 
• Must have a clean, valid, NYS Driver’s License. Ability to travel throughout Nassau & Suffolk Counties
• Ability to work a flexible schedule including nights and weekends, when needed.
• Excellent interpersonal, diplomatic, and persuasive skills to market the company to the public and students.
• Previous work with populations facing adversity a plus
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) a plus
• Light travel - must have valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
• Salary range based on experience, licensing/certification and bilingual qualifications.

Schedule

Flexibility for Hybrid, in-office/remote schedule 

Must work two Saturdays per month instead of Monday.

Monday: 9 am – 5pm (Off when Saturday work is scheduled)

Tuesday- 9 am -5 pm

Wednesday: 12:30 – 8:30 pm

Thursday: 12:30 – 8:30 pm 

Friday: 9 am -5 pm 

Saturday: 9-5 (When Scheduled, Monday off)

Benefits Offered:

• Medical, Dental, Vision
• Up to 13 Paid Holidays
• Vacation, Sick/Safe, Personal and Floating Holidays
• Company sponsored Life and AD&D insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Student Loan Repayment Assistance
• And More.......
   

A successful Career Specialist for Rise Up will have an interest in college counseling and vocational studies, career assessments, and other support services intended to help children succeed after high school graduation; will possess patience with a confident and calming presence and will be comfortable with public speaking. The ability to follow-through and follow-up in a timely manner is a key to success in this position as is the ability to engage and build relationships with individuals of all backgrounds and ages.