Ces - Thrive

iJAG•Fort Dodge, IA

About The Position

The 9th-12th-Grade Career Education Specialist at iJAG guides high school students toward academic and personal excellence. The Specialist places students in state-recognized work-based learning (WBL) experiences that integrate project-based learning (PBL), individual coaching, and data-driven strategies. In collaboration with employer partners, the role connects students with real-world experiences and prepares them for future success. The Specialist builds employer and community partnerships; designs and coordinates WBL opportunities aligned with students’ Individual Career and Academic Plans (ICAP); coaches students and monitors their progress; and serves as the liaison between schools and employers. The role also recruits and engages students, supports graduates during their first year after high school, delivers project-based instruction, manages the classroom, and tracks and analyzes student and program data. The Specialist collaborates with program supervisors and school administration and participates in professional development. The position requires a bachelor’s degree in social sciences, counseling, education, or a closely related discipline. A master’s degree is strongly preferred. Relevant experience in secondary or post-secondary education is required, as is the ability to obtain iJAG and WBL Supervisor authorizations within six months of hire. Salary is $49,000–$52,000 per year, based on qualifications and experience. Benefits include health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in social sciences, counseling, education, or a closely related discipline.
Relevant experience in secondary or post-secondary education environments and a deep understanding of academic support systems.
Ability to obtain an iJAG authorization within six months of hire.
Current Work-Based Learning (WBL) Supervisor Authorization or ability to obtain it within the first six months of employment.
Commitment to iJAG’s mission and flexibility to perform diverse program roles.
Demonstrated proficiency in delivering content to diverse audiences and adapting teaching styles to meet students’ varied needs.
Excellent written and oral communication skills.
Ability to use data analytics to refine instructional approaches and enhance student achievement.
Skill in building supportive relationships while upholding professional standards.
Curriculum development capability.
Technology proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google apps.
Ability to learn new software systems.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in social sciences, counseling, education, or a closely related discipline is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

Cultivate and maintain relationships with employers to secure career exploration and skill development opportunities aligned with student interests and market needs.
Develop community resources, partnerships, and collaborations that support student educational experiences and create pathways for iJAG students.
Design and implement work-based learning programs integrating academic learning with practical workplace experiences.
Coordinate student placements in internships, apprenticeships, and other WBL settings that support students’ ICAPs and employer needs.
Communicate with students during WBL experiences to monitor attendance, coach and support them, address workplace challenges, and guide reflection on learning and skill development.
Serve as the primary liaison between schools and employers to establish expectations, ensure student safety, and monitor progress.
Complete required WBL documentation, including training agreements, work permits, and evaluations, and track placements, hours, and outcomes.
Partner with school administration to identify and select eligible students and promote the iJAG program within the school community.
Conduct informational outreach for prospective students, families, and school staff about the iJAG program.
Guide graduating seniors and recent graduates as they transition to employment, postsecondary education, military service, or training programs.
Conduct outreach during graduates’ first year after graduation, document outcomes, and identify emerging needs or challenges.
Connect graduates with community resources and local agencies, and encourage continued engagement through alumni events, mentorship, and feedback opportunities.
Use project-based learning to create engaging educational experiences that connect classroom theory with real-world applications.
Use iJAG’s competency-based approach to guide projects and foster a student-centered environment that supports critical thinking, creativity, and personalized growth.
Promote student empowerment, autonomy, teamwork, and community building in an inclusive learning environment.
Maintain a positive, structured classroom that supports engagement and participation, adapting management strategies to learners’ diverse needs and ensuring equitable access.
Implement behavior management and conflict resolution strategies to foster a safe and respectful classroom culture.
Maintain accurate student records and track attendance, academic performance, and program participation.
Analyze data to evaluate program impact, identify areas for intervention or support, and improve student outcomes.
Manage and update student Individual Development Plans (IDPs) and Individualized Educational Plans (IEPs), participate in relevant meetings, and advocate for strategies tailored to learners’ needs.
Collaborate with the program supervisor and school administration to support program success and meet educational standards and student needs.
Participate in iJAG and school district professional development activities.
Perform other duties as assigned.