Youth Retention Specialist

Equus•New Orleans, LA

About The Position

We help job seekers and career changers prepare for and advance in careers with a focus on sustainable, high-growth, high-demand industries. Our committed and well-trained workforce professionals deliver comprehensive workforce solutions at integrated career centers, sector-focused centers and community, and partner sites.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Human Services, Counseling, Education, Workforce Development, Psychology, or a related field preferred.
Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
2+ years of experience working with youth, young adults, workforce development programs, education, social services, or case management.
Experience supporting individuals facing barriers to education or employment preferred.
Knowledge of workforce development programs, career pathways, and community resources is highly desirable.
Strong relationship-building and youth engagement skills.
Ability to motivate and coach diverse populations.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Strong organizational and time-management abilities.
Conflict resolution and problem-solving skills.
Knowledge of trauma-informed care principles and positive youth development practices.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and case management/database systems.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and manage sensitive information.

Responsibilities

Develop and maintain supportive relationships with assigned youth participants.
Monitor participant attendance, engagement, and progress toward program goals.
Conduct regular one-on-one coaching sessions with participants.
Identify individuals at risk of dropping out and implement intervention plans.
Develop retention strategies that promote participant success and program completion.
Maintain regular communication with participants through phone calls, text messages, email, and in-person meetings.
Assess participant needs and barriers to employment, education, and training.
Create and monitor Individual Service Strategies (ISS) or Individual Development Plans (IDP).
Coordinate referrals to supportive services including: Transportation assistance, Childcare resources, Housing assistance, Mental health services, Educational support, Financial literacy resources.
Document participant progress and services provided in required case management systems.
Assist participants in establishing educational and career goals.
Support attainment of credentials, certifications, diplomas, or GEDs.
Collaborate with instructors, counselors, and workforce partners to address participant concerns.
Encourage participation in career development activities, workshops, and work-based learning experiences.
Assist participants in transitioning to employment, post-secondary education, military service, or advanced training.
Identify attendance, behavioral, academic, and personal issues impacting retention.
Conduct intervention meetings with participants and stakeholders as needed.
Develop action plans to address performance concerns.
Provide crisis intervention and resource navigation when appropriate.
Advocate on behalf of participants to secure needed services and support.
Maintain accurate, timely, and complete participant records.
Ensure compliance with federal, state, local, and organizational requirements.
Track retention metrics, outcomes, and participant milestones.
Prepare reports and case notes in accordance with organizational policies and funding requirements.
Protect participant confidentiality and sensitive information.
Collaborate with community organizations and service providers.
Participate in outreach and engagement activities.
Support participants during internships, work experiences, apprenticeships, and employment placements.
Maintain relationships with employers to support participant success and retention.