Career Navigator

Career Navigator

EdAdvance is one of Connecticut's six Regional Educational Service Centers (RESCs). Mission EdAdvance, exists to promote the success of school districts and their communities. EdAdvance is redefining what a Regional Education Service Center can be using a systemic approach grounded in the "3C's", Connection Culture, and Customization. Focused on local and regional priorities, we are reinvesting the expertise, energy, and resources of the agency to amplify the benefit of our constituents.

Position Overview:

In collaboration with the UPP coordinator and special education teachers, the Career Navigator supports students in the transition program by guiding them in identifying and pursuing meaningful, realistic career pathways. This role centers on aligning each student's unique strengths, interests, and abilities with current labor market opportunities while fostering independence and career readiness. The Career Navigator also cultivates and maintains partnerships with community employers to expand access to experiential learning opportunities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Student Career Development
• Provide guidance in exploring realistic career options based on individual interests, abilities, and job market outlook
• Develop career goal plans/portfolios in collaboration with students, families, and special education teacher
• Employer and Community Partnership Development
• Develop and maintain relationships with local businesses, organizations, and community partners
• Identify and secure job shadowing experiences, internships, and off-campus job sites that align with student interests and program goals
• Prepare students for participation in community-based work experiences, including communication, professionalism, and workplace expectations
• Serve as a liaison between program/students/employer
• Provide on-site support as needed to ensure student success
• Program Collaboration and Support
• Participate in team meetings to discuss student progress and adjust career plans as needed
• Maintain accurate documentation of student progress, placements, and employer engagement
• Identify alternative pathways to reaching career goals, including certification/credentialing programs
• Career Readiness and Transition Support
• Collaborate with special education teachers to assist students with resume development, job applications, and interview preparation
• Provide guidance on workplace accommodations and self-advocacy
• Collaborate with special education teachers to support students in transitioning from the program to competitive employment or other postsecondary training/higher education programs

Required

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree (in related field preferred)
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with diverse populations and commitment to access, equity, and inclusion (transition age students preferred)
• Ability to motivate and support diverse learners
• Knowledge of career development strategies and labor market trends
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills
• Experience building and maintaining partnerships with employers, community organizations/partners
• Proficient in Google/Microsoft

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working with high school students and families on academic planning, post-secondary advising, and career readiness
• Experience with dual enrollment, concurrent enrollment, internships, pre-apprenticeships, or other work-based learning models
• Familiarity with career pathways and workforce development systems
• Experience using student data to inform interventions, program design, and continuous improvement
• Experience with grants management, grant implementation, reporting, and/or fundraising preferred
• Experience in college and career counseling, work-based learning coordination, pathway development, or a related field