Career Readiness Specialist (Remote in Tennessee)

Reports To

Program Manager or designee

Who is Persevere?

Persevere is a national 501(c)3 non-profit organization committed to decreasing recidivism and increasing successful reentry and transition for men and women involved in the criminal justice system.  To accomplish this, Persevere offers a customizable, comprehensive program for criminal-justice involved individuals to develop meaningful job skills and gain successful access to the labor market.  These services include software coding classes; job readiness and employability instruction, including life skills and financial education; work experience; job search and job placement; entrepreneurship training; and for some, a residential transition program.

National data shows recidivism rates are highest among those who are unemployed.  Criminal justice involved men and women have long struggled to find employment upon release.  They have an immediate disadvantage because of their criminal justice involvement, and must compete with non-offenders for unskilled, low-paying jobs.  Even when they are successful at finding a job, keeping it is another challenge.  As a result, many are unable to comply with the conditions of parole and end up back in prison.

Real Hope, Valuable Skills, & Meaningful Opportunity

Job Overview

The Career Readiness Specialist, working under the Education Coordinator, plays a pivotal role in delivering asynchronous training to Persevere students while collaborating closely with Facility Teacher's Assistants. The primary responsibility of this role is to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge needed to successfully transition into the workforce or higher education through self-paced online learning modules. The specialist will curate online career readiness resources, ensuring accessibility and engagement for all students.

This is a full-time, exempt position with excellent benefits including medical, dental, vision, disability, life insurance, matching 401k and generous paid time off.  This position is remote but candidates must be located in the state of Tennessee.  Infrequent travel may be required.

Job Responsibilities

  • Asynchronous Training: Curate and maintain a comprehensive library of asynchronous career readiness training modules and resources tailored to Persevere students. These modules should cover essential skills such as resume building, job search strategies, interview preparation, and workplace etiquette.

  • Collaboration: Work closely with Facility Teacher's Assistants to seamlessly integrate asynchronous career readiness components into the overall educational program, providing students with self-paced learning opportunities that align with their individual needs.

  • Content Enhancement: Continuously enhance the quality and relevance of online content, including videos, quizzes, worksheets, and other multimedia resources, to support students' career development goals.

  • Individualized Support: Offer virtual one-on-one guidance and counseling to students, assisting them in navigating and making the best use of the asynchronous training materials.

  • Progress Monitoring: Track and assess student progress within the asynchronous training modules, providing feedback and support as needed to ensure successful completion.

  • Workshops and Webinars: Coordinate virtual workshops, webinars, and guest speaker events on career-related topics to complement asynchronous training.

  • Community Engagement: Foster connections with local employers, educational institutions, and community organizations to create internship, apprenticeship, and job placement opportunities for students.

  • Supportive Environment: Nurture a positive and inclusive online learning environment that encourages students' personal and professional growth.

  • Documentation: Maintain detailed records of student interactions, progress, and program outcomes for reporting purposes.

  • Professional Development: Stay informed about industry trends, best practices, and educational advancements in asynchronous career readiness training, participating in relevant training and workshops.

  • Complete corporate training on a timely basis.

  • Assist with the creation of and follow critical Standard Operating Procedures and Workflows

  • Participate in cross training staff as requested

  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Education, Counseling, or a related field 

  • Proven experience in career counseling, workforce development, or online education.

  • Strong knowledge of asynchronous learning platforms and curriculum development.

  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, especially in a virtual setting.

  • Ability to motivate and engage students in self-paced learning.

  • Proficiency in using online educational tools and platforms.

  • Strong organizational and time-management skills.

  • Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

  • Patience, empathy, and a genuine desire to help students succeed.

 

We highly value

  • Passion for and responsibility to the customer/partner

  • Must be self-starting, hardworking and inquisitive

  • Leadership through innovation in everything you do

  • Passion for what you do and being self-reflective to improve

  • Relentless commitment to win

  • Personal and corporate integrity

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