CES - THRIVE

iJAG•Newark, NJ

4d•$49,000 - $52,000

About The Position

The 9th–12th-Grade Career Education Specialist at iJAG guides high school students toward academic and personal excellence. The role places students in state-recognized work-based learning (WBL) experiences that integrate project-based learning (PBL), individual coaching, and data-driven strategies. The Specialist collaborates with employer partners to create real-world learning opportunities and prepare students for successful futures. The Specialist cultivates employer and community partnerships; designs and coordinates WBL experiences, including internships and apprenticeships; and supports students throughout those experiences. The role also recruits and engages students, provides transition support to graduating seniors and recent graduates, delivers competency-based, project-based instruction, manages classroom culture, tracks student data and plans, and collaborates with program and school staff on professional development and program success.

Requirements

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

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

Cultivate and maintain employer relationships to secure career exploration and skill-development opportunities aligned with student interests and market demands.
Develop community resources, partnerships, and collaborations that support students’ educational experiences and create new pathways.
Design and implement work-based learning programs integrating academics with practical workplace experiences and professional skill development.
Coordinate student placements in internships, apprenticeships, and other WBL settings aligned with students’ Individual Career and Academic Plans (ICAP) and employer needs.
Communicate regularly with students during WBL experiences to monitor attendance, provide coaching, address workplace challenges, and support reflection on learning and skill development.
Serve as the primary liaison between schools and employers to establish expectations, ensure student safety, and monitor student progress.
Complete required WBL documentation, including training agreements, work permits, and evaluations, and track placements, hours, and outcomes.
Partner with school administration to identify eligible students and promote the iJAG program within the school community.
Conduct informational outreach for prospective students, families, and school staff about iJAG’s benefits and opportunities.
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, monitor progress, document outcomes, and identify needs or challenges.
Connect graduates with community resources and local agencies, and encourage engagement through alumni events, mentorship, and feedback opportunities.
Use project-based learning to integrate classroom theory with real-world applications and build students’ practical understanding and skills.
Use iJAG’s competency-based approach to guide projects and foster a student-centered learning environment that supports critical thinking, creativity, and personalized growth.
Promote student empowerment, autonomy, teamwork, and community building in an inclusive learning environment.
Develop and maintain a positive, structured classroom environment using management strategies adapted to diverse learner needs and equitable access to learning.
Implement behavior-management plans 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 needs for interventions or additional support, and improve student outcomes.
Manage and update students’ Individual Development Plans (IDPs) and Individualized Educational Plans (IEPs), and participate in relevant meetings to advocate for students and adapt educational strategies.
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.