Admissions/Outreach and Career Transition Director

Equus•Cleveland, OH

7d•Onsite

About The Position

The Director of Admissions & Career Transitions provides strategic leadership, oversight, and operational management of all functions related to student recruitment, enrollment, retention, placement, and post-program support within the Job Corps program. This role ensures an efficient and compliant experience from applicant outreach through graduate career transition. The Director is responsible for meeting organizational goals, maintaining adherence to all DOL, Center, and Equus Workforce Solutions requirements, and driving high-quality outcomes for students and staff.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in human services, psychology, counseling, education, social science, business, communications, marketing or a related field
3-5+ years of professional experience in admissions, outreach, career services, or related field
Proven track record of successfully managing recruitment and enrollment initiatives
Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to engage diverse audiences
Demonstrated experience in program development, strategic planning, and project management
Proficiency in data analysis and experience with enrollment management systems or CRM platforms
Excellent organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities
Experience coordinating events and managing community partnerships
Knowledge of career transition processes and best practices in career counseling or workforce development
Ability to work collaboratively
Proficiency with digital communication tools and marketing platforms
Strong presentation and public speaking abilities
Customer-focused mindset with a commitment to support
Associate degree in a related field plus four or more years of increasingly responsible experience.
Three to five years of experience in admissions, counseling, youth services, workforce development, or related areas.
Prior leadership or supervisory experience strongly preferred.
Experience working with diverse youth populations.
Valid state driver's license with an acceptable driving record.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual (English/Spanish) ability is a plus.

Responsibilities

Leads by example through leadership values
Promotes the company mission, vision, values, and brand
Develops and maintains strong relationships with funders, staff, partners and employers
Organize and facilitate Community Relations Council (CRC) meetings through community engagement, partnership development, and program visibility.
Fosters a positive, inclusive and accountable culture
Establishes a motivational, collaborative, and innovative work environment that fosters excellent customer experience and results
Provide ongoing training and communication to ensure staff are always up to date on new processes and changes.
Ensures compliance to meet or exceed expectations.
Maintains community relationships within the City of Cleveland and surrounding areas.
Responsible for meeting the goals and objectives outlined in the contract.
Ensures all laws, rules and regulations are followed as outlined by the contract.
Ensures a positive guest experience.
Performs quality assurance monitoring.
Fosters a positive culture.
Ensures proper practices regarding record keeping, control systems, and reporting.
Develop and implement strategic plans for Admissions and Career Transition operations to meet or exceed departmental and center goals.
Provide leadership, coaching, and accountability for staff responsible for outreach, enrollment, placement, and post-program services.
Ensure compliance with all federal, state, DOL, and organizational policies and procedures.
Monitor departmental performance metrics and provide continuous improvement strategies
Lead and expand community outreach initiatives to increase program visibility and attract eligible youth.
Build and maintain partnerships with community organizations, schools, agencies, American Job Centers, workforce boards, and local employers.
Oversee the development of outreach strategies, materials, events, and presentations to effectively communicate Job Corps program benefits.
Ensure staff conduct consistent, high-quality outreach aligned with recruitment goals and compliance standards.
Monitor outreach performance and adjust strategies to maximize applicant interest and enrollment outcomes.
Guide recruitment initiatives to attract eligible youth through community partnerships, agencies, American Job Centers, and public events.
Oversee applicant orientations, interviews, and enrollment assessments, ensuring quality interactions and compliance with parental/guardian involvement requirements when applicable.
Manage all applicant documentation processes—data entry integrity, scanning, quality assurance, and procedural adherence.
Coordinate onboarding logistics, including travel and center placement, ensuring a smooth transition for incoming students.
Direct assessment processes for graduate readiness and ensure placement in employment, military pathways, further education, or advanced training.
Lead efforts to secure timely and sustainable job placements and retention outcomes.
Develop and maintain strong relationships with employers, One‑Stops, state agencies, and community partners to expand placement opportunities.
Ensure ongoing support for graduates, including referrals to necessary services that support long‑term success.
Model and reinforce employability and Career Success Standards (CSS) across all team functions.
Maintain accountability of staff, students, and organizational property.
Ensure a safe, professional environment free of harassment, intimidation, and discrimination.
Adhere to all safety standards within the role’s scope of responsibility.
Attend all required meetings, trainings, and leadership development programs.
Perform additional duties as assigned to support organizational objectives.
Maintain accountability of staff, students, and property.
Ensure a safe and respectful environment free of harassment, intimidation, and discrimination.
Adhere to all safety practices within the scope of responsibility.
Attend all required staff trainings and department meetings.
Perform other duties as assigned.