Apprenticeship Development Specialist

OUR ORGANIZATION

Kinexus Group, recognized as one of Nonprofit Times 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2026 Best Nonprofits to Work For, is a cutting‑edge community development organization that works to create an economically thriving Michigan. We create solutions for business, workforce, and community challenges to promote economic vitality.

The Michigan Works! team is dedicated to developing the local workforce and building a strong talent pipeline to meet the current and future needs of regional employers. We support jobseekers of all skill levels in securing sustainable, long‑term employment through individualized coaching, training scholarships for high‑demand occupations, and placement into paid on‑the‑job training and apprenticeship opportunities. In partnership with the Business Solutions Team, we collaborate closely with local employers to attract, retain, and develop talent through comprehensive workforce strategies, including apprenticeship and pre‑apprenticeship programs from entry‑level to professional careers.

Our long‑term goal is to strengthen economic growth and vitality in Southwest Michigan by expanding access to high‑demand career pathways. The Apprenticeship Specialist will support career seekers, incumbent workers, and local employers by advancing training opportunities that create new pathways, enhance workforce stability, and meet regional industry needs.

• Manages data in CRM systems for both internal and external stakeholders.
• Enrolls participants in apprenticeship programs and manages their cases to achieve successful outcomes.
• Collaborates with the Business Solutions Team to support the strategy and grow the apprenticeship service.
• Supports the internal referral process working alongside the apprenticeship development coordinator and manager.
• Assists in smooth relationship management with local employers.
• Develops a communication strategy for apprenticeships.
• Collaborates on sector‑level activities and events related to apprenticeships, including race‑to‑talent initiatives.
• Ensures accurate and timely data entry across all required systems; maintains complete and compliant participant files and conducts monthly audits to ensure data integrity and adherence to program requirements.
• Utilizes assessment tools to evaluate participant skills, interests, and abilities; assists with individualized career planning and provides continuous monitoring and support throughout the career development process.
• Maintains a working knowledge of workforce development programs, including WIOA, Apprenticeship Building America (ABA), and other applicable funding sources.
• Manages the full lifecycle of case management activities for participants enrolled in apprenticeship and pre‑apprenticeship programs.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent professional experience in business, human services, workforce development, or a related field.
• Strong critical thinking and problem‑solving skills.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Passion for serving others and the community.
• Capability to work in a team environment.
• Ability to organize, prioritize, and maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to adapt to change and work in a fast‑paced environment.
• Solid computer skills in Microsoft Office, Excel, PowerPoint, and virtual meeting platforms.

• Two or more years of professional experience in business, social services, workforce development, or a related field.
• Experience applying case management principles within a project management framework.

• Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds at times.
• Must be willing and able to travel approximately 30% of the time between Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties.

• Flexible and open.
• Periodic telecommute work.

• A robust onboarding experience to integrate you into our team.
• Team‑of‑teams training in support of the organizational strategies.
• Job training and development to ensure you are established and growing in your role.
• Cross‑operational meetings with peers.
• Exceptional benefits.
• Opportunity to be part of transformational change in Michigan.

Kinexus Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Program. Auxiliary aids, reasonable accommodations and/or services are available upon request for individuals with disabilities. Kinexus is a partner of American Job Centers.