Senior Director of College Access & Workforce Readiness

Communities In Schools of Central Texas•Austin, TX

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Senior Director of College Access and Workforce Readiness is a strategic leader responsible for designing, implementing, and scaling programs that ensure students and participants are prepared for postsecondary success and high-quality career pathways. This role bridges K–12 education, higher education, and workforce systems to create equitable access to college, credentials, and employment opportunities. The Senior Director leads cross-functional teams, builds external partnerships, and drives data-informed strategies to improve outcomes for underserved population.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required
5-10 years of progressive leadership experience in education, college access, workforce development, or related sectors
Demonstrated experience leading large-scale programs or initiatives
Deep understanding of college access systems, financial aid processes, and workforce development pathways
Knowledge of labor market trends and career readiness frameworks
Strong strategic planning and execution skills

Nice To Haves

master’s degree in education, organizational leadership, K12 Guidance Counseling, Workforce Development, or related field preferred
School-based supervisory experience, preferred

Responsibilities

Develop and execute a comprehensive vision for college access and workforce readiness aligned with organizational goals
Lead long-term strategy for postsecondary success, including college enrollment, persistence, credential attainment, and career placement
Identify trends in higher education, workforce development, and labor market needs to inform programming
Serve as a key member of the senior leadership team, contributing to organizational strategy and decision-making
Analyze Trades, Industry-Based Certifications, Post secondary, and Workforce Development
Experienced trainer to include training coaches, leaders, and partners
Oversee the development and continuous improvement of college access and career readiness programs
Ensure campus programming integrates academic advising, financial aid literacy, career exploration, and skill development
Experienced trainer providing professional development to coaches, leaders, and partners
Align initiatives with college and career readiness standards and workforce demands
Scale high-impact models across regions or populations
Partnering with families and community members
Build and maintain strategic partnerships with colleges, universities, employers, workforce boards, and community organizations
Collaborate with industry partners to create internships, apprenticeships, and job placement opportunities
Represent the organization in external coalitions, policy discussions, and public forums
Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of program leaders and staff
Establish clear goals, performance expectations, and professional development plans
Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and equity
Establish metrics to evaluate program effectiveness (e.g., college enrollment, persistence, job placement, wage outcomes)
Use data to drive continuous improvement and strategic decision-making
Oversee reporting to internal stakeholders, funders, and external partners
Ensure all programs are designed with a strong equity lens, prioritizing underserved and underrepresented populations
Address systemic barriers to college and career success
Promote inclusive practices across all initiatives
Develop and manage departmental budgets
Ensure effective allocation of resources to maximize impact
Support fundraising efforts, including grant development and donor engagement