CEJA Manager

Lake County IL•Waukegan, IL

28d

About The Position

Are you looking for a challenging role within an organization that provides rewarding compensation, an excellent benefit package and career growth opportunities? If so, Lake County Government is the place for you. Comprised of nearly 3,000 employees, it is our goal to positively serve the residents of Lake County while working with a purpose. We believe our employees should take pride in the work they accomplish while truly respecting a collaborative work environment. The CEJA Manager reports directly to the Director, CEJA Program Administrator and is responsible for overseeing the implementation and daily operations of the Climate & Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) Workforce Programs. This role provides direct leadership and supervision to the CEJA Operations Team. Ensuring alignment with organizational goals, state mandates, and community workforce needs. The Manager will coordinate training, wraparound services, employer partnerships, and compliance reporting. Serving as a key liaison between staff, participants, the College of Lake County, and stakeholders, the CEJA Manager ensures equitable access to clean energy workforce pathways while maintaining high standards of service delivery and program accountability. This position is part of the Workforce Development Leadership Team.

Requirements

Knowledge of: Workforce development principles and practices.
Clean Energy workforce priorities preferred.
Case management, barrier reduction strategies, and supportive services.
Data systems, compliance standards, and reporting requirements for state-funded programs.
Microsoft Excel reporting, advanced pivots and dashboards preferred.
Skills in: Leadership, staff supervision, and performance management.
Program management, budget oversight, and operational planning.
Building partnerships across sectors, including employers, unions, training providers, and community organizations.
Public speaking, facilitation, and community engagement.
Strong written and verbal communication.
Ability to: Motivate, coach, and develop diverse team members.
Balance strategic oversight with hands-on program management.
Navigate complex systems while keeping participant outcomes at the center.
Work effectively with individuals from diverse cultural, economic, and social backgrounds.
Manage multiple priorities and deadlines with attention to detail.
Bachelor's degree in Public Administration, Workforce Development, Business, Social Work, Education, or related field preferred; Or years of experience as an experienced People Leader.
Minimum 5 years of progressively responsible experience in workforce development, program management, or related field.
Minimum 3 years of supervisory or leadership experience.
Experience with state/federal workforce grants, compliance, and reporting strongly preferred.

Nice To Haves

Clean Energy workforce priorities preferred.
Microsoft Excel reporting, advanced pivots and dashboards preferred.
Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred but not required.
Experience with state/federal workforce grants, compliance, and reporting strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

Directly supervise, coach, and evaluate CEJA program staff, including coordinators, case managers, and instructors.
Promote a positive, inclusive, and collaborative work culture centered on equity and professional growth.
Manage day-to-day operations of CEJA Workforce Programs, ensuring compliance with DCEO and state regulations.
Oversee participant recruitment, enrollment, training, and support service delivery.
Monitor stipend disbursement, barrier reduction services, and wraparound supports to ensure timely and equitable distribution.
Develop and maintain strong partnerships with employers, unions, educational institutions, and community-based organizations.
Represent CEJA at community forums, workforce boards, and employer engagement events.
Collaborate with local businesses, utilities, and workforce partners to expand clean energy employment pipelines.
Ensure accurate data collection and timely submission of reports to funders and leadership.
Monitor program performance metrics, including participant outcomes, job placements, and retention.
Maintain compliance with all CEJA regulations, audits, and quality assurance processes.
Identify opportunities to strengthen program design and delivery to better serve equity-eligible populations.
Support the Director in long-term workforce planning and continuous program improvement.
All other related duties as assigned.