JMG Pathways Specialist

Kinexus Group•Paw Paw, MI

7d•Onsite

About The Position

The JMG Pathways Specialist supports young people in Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties as they explore career options, build essential skills, and pursue postsecondary education, training, or employment. Grounded in Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates (JMG) principles and aligned with workforce development programming, the role provides individualized coaching, career advising, and access to real-world experiences to help youth achieve long-term economic self-sufficiency. The Specialist aligns in-school and out-of-school services so youth receive consistent support from middle school through graduation and beyond. The position is based in person at the Paw Paw Michigan Works office and includes field work with Van Buren schools, community partners, and youth. The regular schedule is Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with frequent travel within Van Buren County and occasional travel across the tri-county region. The role works with schools, employers, training providers, community organizations, internal teams, and other partners to provide high-quality, compliant youth programming.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in human services, education, workforce development, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of experience and training.
Experience working with at-risk or opportunity youth in a coaching, case-management, or educational role.
Knowledge of positive youth development strategies and trauma-informed practices.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to build trust and relate to diverse youth populations.
Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and data systems, and ability to maintain accurate records and documentation.
Ability to travel across Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties.
Commitment to equity, inclusion, and youth empowerment.

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with workforce development, WIOA Youth, or JMG programming.
Experience facilitating workshops, training sessions, or group activities.
Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.

Responsibilities

Provide individualized coaching and support to youth in Van Buren County using JMG principles and curriculum.
Help youth set personal, academic, and career goals based on their strengths, interests, and labor market information.
Deliver career-readiness training, resume support, interview preparation, and life-skills coaching aligned with JMG.
Help youth explore high-demand career pathways and make informed decisions about postsecondary education, training, or employment.
Ensure youth understand and can access workforce development programming and Michigan Works! services, including WIOA Youth, support services, and other resources.
Serve as a resource and connector for youth workforce programs and services, and maintain current knowledge of relevant policies, handbooks, and best practices.
Connect youth to traditional and non-traditional training, including apprenticeships, short-term credentials, and work-based learning.
Partner with schools, employers, training providers, and community organizations to expand youth access to career-connected opportunities.
Maintain referral relationships with service providers, educators, and mentors.
Maintain accurate records, case notes, and documentation in accordance with JMG standards, grant requirements, and organizational performance expectations.
Conduct assessments, track progress, and follow up with youth to support ongoing engagement and goal attainment.
Participate in workshops, events, and community outreach to promote youth programming.
Collaborate with internal teams to align services with organizational strategies.
Work with policy, quality assurance, and data teams to ensure programming is high-quality, compliant, and consistently implemented in accordance with JMG and statewide standards.
Implement best practices, incorporate feedback, and share field insights to support continuous improvement and program consistency.