Transitional Coach

Job Summary: 

UTEC’s Transitional Coaches (TCs) support young adults in our Workforce Development Program (WFD). This role is all about building strong relationships and helping young people stay on track.

As a TC, you will check in regularly with young adults, help them set goals, and create plans to achieve short- and long-term success. You will support young adults through challenges related to housing, food, or other life needs and connect them to community resources. You’ll work closely with other UTEC staff (WFD Program Managers, UTEC’s mental health counselors, educators, etc) and help young adults manage their web of support. 

For many young adults, their TC becomes a trusted, long-term support in their lives.
 

Duties/Responsibilities: 

• Manage a group (caseload) of young adults who need extra support
• Check in with each young adult at least once a week
• Meet one-on-one regularly (at least 4 longer meetings each month)
  • New participants will need more frequent check-ins (about 2 times per week)
• Keep notes and track progress using UTEC’s system (Quickbase)
• Knowledge of resources and services in the Merrimack Valley (or other nearby communities) and/or willingness to learn about resources that are appropriate for UTEC young adults
• Help young adults get what they need (food, housing, IDs, childcare, etc.) at all stages of the program 
• Help remove barriers so they can show up and stay engaged in the program
• Work closely with program staff to support each young adult’s progress
• Build relationships with local partners to make referrals easier
• Step in during urgent or crisis situations to provide support
• Help with events, trips, and retreats
• Lead or support workshops related to life skills and/or restorative justice 
• Reach out to young adults who have stopped attending and help re-engage them

What We’re Looking For: 

• Commitment: You care deeply about young people and believe in their potential.  
• Relentless: You don't give up on people, even when things get hard. Proactively reaches out to young adults,  can see them succeed even when they cannot see it themselves, uses innovative methods to contact and develop relationships with young adults 
• Relationship Builder:  You are comfortable building relationships with all kinds of people, including young adults, colleagues, and community partners.  
• Controlled Response: You remain calm in stressful situations 
• Coachable: You are open to feedback and always learning
• Team Player: You work well on a team and uphold UTEC’s mission, values, and vibe
• Adaptable: You're organized and willing to learn new systems/technology 
• Curiosity: You’re curious and like to learn more about how to better support people 
• Drive: Eager to do an excellent job and passionate about the work you’re doing
• Sense of Humor: You bring a positive attitude (the ability to laugh at oneself is a must!!)
• Flexibility: You can work some evenings or weekends when needed (about 2 times a month)

Qualifications: 

• You have access to a car and can travel between Lowell, Lawrence, and Haverhill
• Ability to effectively communicate and build relationships with Spanish-speaking Young Adults

Education and Experience: 

• At least 2 years of experience working with young people (youth development, case management, or similar work)
• We are a Second Chance employer looking for mentors who have been through the system. Your life experience means you speak the same language as the Young Adults we serve. If you’ve walked the path, you’re the best person to show them the way out.

Physical Requirements: 

• Able to sit and work at a computer when needed
• Able to stand for long periods during program activities
• Able to lift up to 25 lbs regularly (up to 50 lbs occasionally)
• Able to move, bend, and reach as needed