Youth Employment Specialist

This job was posted by https://www.kansasworks.com : For more

information, please see: https://www.kansasworks.com/jobs/13434994

SUMMARY DESCRIPTION:\

The Youth Employment Specialist connects education, business, and community partners to create and expand career development opportunities for students across the region. This role focuses on coordinating work-based learning experiences, promoting career awareness and exploration, and preparing youth for successful transitions into the workforce. The coordinator builds strong relationships with schools, employers, and local organizations to help students gain real-world experience and explore career pathways aligned with Kansas workforce needs.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Coordinate and expand regional work-based learning opportunities,

ensuring alignment with education and industry needs.

• Deliver individualized case management services, including assessing

student needs, setting goals, and connecting participants with resources and supports that enhance their success in education and employment

• Partner with schools, community colleges, and local employers to

create hands-on learning experiences, such as internships, job shadows, and career fairs.

• Facilitate pre-employment training on workplace readiness topics,

including communication, customer service, resume writing, and interview skills.

• Act as a liaison between education, business, and economic

development to strengthen workforce pipelines.

• Support career awareness and exploration initiatives through guest

speakers, industry tours, and career mentoring.

• Collaborate with district work-based learning coordinators to align

regional programs and reduce duplication of efforts.

• Develop and maintain a database of available work-based learning

opportunities across the region.

• Track and report student participation in career awareness,

exploration, and preparation experiences.

• Partner with educators and employers to create real-world projects

that align with career pathway coursework.

• Support educator externships and professional development

opportunities connected to business and industry.

• Work with local and state agencies to strengthen collaboration and

promote consistent, high-quality work-based learning models.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Associates degree is preferred in education, workforce development,

human resources, or related field (experience may substitute for formal education).

• Experience in education, employment, or training preferred.
• Knowledge of federal and state workforce development programs and

policies.

• Strong communication, organizational, and relationship-building

skills.

• Ability to engage effectively with employers, educators, and

community partners.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook,

Teams).

• Valid drivers license and access to reliable transportation.
• Flexible, adaptable, and mission-driven with a positive,

professional attitude.

WHY JOIN US

• Mission-Driven Work:Help young people explore their potential

and discover meaningful career paths.

• Collaborative Culture:Work alongside dedicated educators,

employers, and community leaders.

• Professional Growth:Opportunities for continued learning and

impact.

• Inclusive Values:Be part of an organization that values equity,

diversity, and accessibility.

Ready to make a difference?\

Apply today by emailing your resume to**Morgan Unruh, Program Compliance Analyst, atMorgan@kansasworkforceone.org**.

*Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background

check.*

Employee Experience\

This position may require travel to schools, employer sites, and community events. Flexible scheduling may beneeded to support student or employer activities, including occasional evenings or weekends. Must be able to sit for extended periods, operate standard office equipment, and occasionally lift up to 25 pounds. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Salary and Benefits\

Salary is based on experience and qualifications. Benefits may include health insurance, retirement savings, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.

Equal Opportunity Employer\

Kansas WorkforceONE is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We encourage individuals with disabilities and members of underrepresented groups to apply.

MISSION STATEMENT\

The Local Area I Workforce Development Board exists to connect employers to a motivated workforce with the skills to obtain and maintain meaningful employment throughout its 96-county community.