Skills Development & Independence Coach

Mitchell College•New London, CT

About The Position

Mitchell College is conducting a search for a Skills Development & Independence Coach who will play a vital role in supporting neurodivergent young adults in the STAIRs Program as they move toward independence, personal skill development, and growth. This position blends teaching, individualized coaching, community partnership development, and program growth into a dynamic, learner-centered role. This position helps partners build skills, confidence, relationships, and self-direction, while also helping STAIRs grow its impact, partnerships, and long-term sustainability. As the program expands, so does the scope and leadership opportunity of this position. This is a part-time ( (28 hrs./wk.), full year position.

Requirements

Experience in coaching, education, skill development, or related fields
Demonstrated ability to support neurodivergent individuals with dignity, flexibility, and strengths-based practices
Strong communication, organizational, and relationship-building skills
Comfort teaching, coaching, and representing the program in community settings
Alignment with STAIRs values of inclusion, growth, accountability, and meaningful work
A relevant masters degree in Social Work, Counseling, Student Affairs, or Higher Education is required.
Ability to maintain appropriate boundaries in the workplace and to work professionally (ethically) especially with regard to matters of confidentiality.
The position requires excellent written and verbal communication, organization, and problem solving skills, especially during high stress situations.
Individuals who are able to work in a continuously changing organization and are highly motivated are best suited for this position.
Enthusiasm, creativity and flexibility required.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of and experience in working with students who have learning differences and/or are on the spectrum is desired.
Previous successful experiences with career readiness instruction and/or coaching
An ability to meet participants where they are at and partner with them on the development of a success and transition plan.

Responsibilities

Deliver approved curriculum through classes, workshops, and applied learning experiences
Teach topics such as life skills (housekeeping, personal budgeting, transportation, community connections, etc.) and promote self-advocacy, accountability, communication, pride, confidence, and personal presentation
Support skill assessment, progress tracking, and successful completion of program benchmarks
Provide one-on-one and small-group coaching tailored to each Partner’s strengths, needs, and goals
Support and help develop organization systems for accountability and independence readiness
Facilitate personal exploration, site visits, and pathway discovery aligned with Partner interests
Reinforce confidence, independence, and sustainable success beyond the program and job placement
Build and maintain relationships with local organization and partners to provide unique learning experiences for Partners
Expand service and engagement opportunities
Assist with recruitment, enrollment, and community outreach initiatives
Collaborate with program leadership on documentation, program design, and continuous improvement
Supervise and mentor PT Partner Interns, inter-organizational interns, and/or Federal Work Study students as assigned
Support program visibility, including communications and social media presence