Director of College & Career Development

Description

The Director of College and Career Development at Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Los Angeles will lead innovative programs to prepare youth for successful transitions to post-secondary education and careers. Reporting to the Senior Director of Strategy & Services, this role is responsible for designing and implementing college and career readiness initiatives, managing a high-performing team, fostering community partnerships, and ensuring measurable outcomes. The ideal candidate will be passionate, accountable, results-oriented, and committed to empowering youth to achieve their educational and career goals.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Program Development and Implementation

• Develop and execute comprehensive college and career readiness programs, including workshops, resources, and curricula tailored to diverse youth populations.
• Design strategies for post-secondary planning, including college applications, financial aid processes, and career pathways.
• Integrate innovative approaches and best practices to ensure program relevance and effectiveness.

Youth Support & Case Management

• Provide personalized counseling and support to youth, guiding them through college preparation and career exploration.
• Monitor academic progress and ensure alignment with graduation and career goals.
• Facilitate connections to internships, apprenticeships, and employment opportunities.

Staff Leadership & Management

• Recruit, train, and supervise program staff and volunteers, fostering a culture of accountability and initiative.
• Conduct regular performance evaluations and provide professional development opportunities to enhance team effectiveness.

Community & Partner Engagement

• Establish partnerships with colleges, trade schools, unions, businesses, and community organizations to expand opportunities for youth.
• Organize events such as job fairs, college tours, and site visits to provide real-world exposure.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to align services with youth needs and organizational goals.

Evaluation & Reporting

• Track program metrics, including college applications, admissions, employment rates, and other success indicators.
• Analyze data to inform continuous improvement and ensure outcomes are achieved.
• Prepare reports for internal and external stakeholders, highlighting program impact and opportunities for growth.

Requirements

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE, LICENSURE AND CERTIFICATION

• Bachelor’s degree in Education, Counseling, Social Work, or a related field. Equivalent proven experience may substitute for the education requirement.
• 3-5 years of experience in education, workforce development, or youth programming.
• Proven ability to manage programs and lead teams effectively.

KNOWLEDGE, ABILITY and SKILLS

Leadership

• Ability to inspire and lead a team to achieve program goals.
• Strong decision-making skills and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Technological proficiency in program management software and data systems

Program Expertise

• Strong understanding of college admissions, financial aid, scholarships, and career development processes.
• Proficiency in data analysis and reporting to evaluate program outcomes.
• Familiarity with trade apprenticeships, internships, and workforce development strategies.

Communication

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to build strong relationships with youth, families, staff, and community partners.

Cultural Competence

• Commitment to equity and inclusion, with sensitivity to the needs of diverse populations.
• Passion for youth development and commitment to empowering underserved communities.

Organizational Skills

• Strong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Detail-oriented approach to maintaining accurate records and documentation.
• Innovative mindset with a focus on results and outcomes.

WORKING CONDITIONS and DRIVING

• Travel between Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Los Angeles sites and schools and various field trip sites as well as in the community is required. Must meet the insurance standards of Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Los Angeles.
• Hours are strictly between 10:30 AM and 7:30 PM with a 1-hour lunch break
• Hours are based on school calendar and attendance patterns/trends – evening hours are required during the school year; hours will vary during summer and school breaks; occasional weekend hours are required.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS / WORKING CONDITIONS:

The physical demands and characteristics of the work environment described here are representative of those occurring in the performance of the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The position requires the ability to maintain a stationary position and engage in physical activities such as moving, bending, reaching, and positioning. It may also involve traversing and ascending/descending as necessary. The role includes frequent interruptions via in-person contact, phone calls, and email communications.

Work environments may vary, encompassing both indoor and outdoor conditions based on activity locations. Additionally, interactions with youth and adults may involve moderate to high noise levels during activities. Physical exertion may be necessary to move and transport supplies and equipment.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this position. Nothing in this job description restricts the right of Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Los Angeles Management to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job or change this job description at any time.

BENEFITS

• Health Insurance – BGCMLA pays 100% premium cost for employee
• Dental Insurance – BGCMLA pays 100% premium cost for employee
• Vision Insurance – BGCMLA pays 100% premium cost for employee
• Life Insurance – BGCMLA pays 100% premium cost for employee
• Long-Term Disability Insurance – BGCMLA pays 100% premium cost for employee
• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan
• Paid Vacation and Sick Time
• Service Awards
• Professional Development Opportunities
• Access to a national network of Boys & Girls Clubs Professionals