Position Summary The Healthcare Career Readiness Instructor supports YouthBuild Lake County's mission by preparing participants for success in healthcare career pathways through instruction, project-based learning, career readiness, and college transition support. Under the supervision of the YouthBuild Program Director, this role provides foundational healthcare instruction that prepares participants to successfully enter and complete the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certificate program at the College of Lake County (CLC). The Healthcare Career Readiness Instructor will lead engaging classroom instruction, facilitate hands-on learning experiences, coordinate healthcare-focused service projects, and support participants with college enrollment, career planning, and employment readiness. This position serves as the bridge between YouthBuild programming and postsecondary healthcare training, ensuring participants are academically, professionally, and personally prepared to succeed. Essential Functions 1. Healthcare Career Readiness Instruction Deliver a comprehensive healthcare readiness curriculum designed to prepare participants for entry into the CLC CNA program. Provide instruction in medical terminology, professionalism, patient care fundamentals, infection control, safety, ethics, communication, and healthcare career exploration. Utilize project-based learning strategies that reinforce healthcare knowledge through hands-on experiences. Assess participant progress and provide individualized academic support to ensure readiness for postsecondary training. 2. Postsecondary & CNA Preparation Guide participants through the College of Lake County admissions and enrollment process. Support completion of college applications, placement requirements, financial aid, and required program documentation. Prepare participants for the expectations of college-level coursework and clinical learning environments. Collaborate with College of Lake County staff to ensure successful participant transitions into CNA programming. 3. Career Development & Employment Readiness Deliver career readiness instruction specific to healthcare professions. Assist participants with resumes, interviewing, professionalism, and workplace communication. Educate participants on entry-level healthcare career opportunities and career advancement pathways. Coordinate employer engagement opportunities including guest speakers, healthcare panels, job shadows, hiring events, and industry tours. 4. Service Learning & Community Engagement Identify, develop, and coordinate meaningful healthcare-related community service projects. Integrate AmeriCorps service opportunities into the healthcare pathway. Build partnerships with healthcare organizations, long-term care facilities, hospitals, clinics, and community agencies. Facilitate participant reflection connecting service experiences to healthcare careers. 5. Participant Development & Program Support Serve as a mentor and advisor, supporting participant growth, persistence, and career planning. Participate in Member Success Plans (MSPs), Morning Circle, All Member All Staff, and interdisciplinary case review meetings. Collaborate with Education, Career Access, and Supportive Services to address barriers impacting participant success. Maintain participant attendance, progress, and required documentation. 6. Mission Alignment All employees and volunteers are expected to build meaningful relationships with participants, value youth voice, and demonstrate mutual respect as a reflection of YBLC's mission. Other Responsibilities Maintain high standards of professionalism, confidentiality, and participant engagement. Participate in organizational events, staff meetings, trainings, and professional development. Maintain a valid driver's license with a clean driving record. Represent YouthBuild Lake County professionally with educational institutions, employers, healthcare partners, and community organizations. Perform other duties as assigned in support of program success.
Qualifications Education:
Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Nursing, Allied Health, Health Sciences, Education, or a related field required. Bachelor's degree preferred.
Licensure/Certification:
Active healthcare credential required (e.g., Registered Nurse (RN), Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Instructor, or other applicable healthcare credential). Illinois approval to instruct CNA courses or eligibility to obtain approval is preferred.
Experience:
Minimum of two years of experience in healthcare, healthcare education, workforce development, or related instructional settings. Experience working with opportunity youth or adult learners is highly preferred.
Skills:
Strong classroom facilitation and instructional skills with experience utilizing project-based learning methodologies. Knowledge of entry-level healthcare careers, postsecondary pathways, and workforce expectations. Strong organizational, communication, and relationship-building skills. Experience with Microsoft Office and data management systems preferred.
Attributes:
Passion for developing future healthcare professionals, commitment to participant success, ability to motivate diverse learners, adaptability, collaboration, and dedication to YouthBuild Lake County's mission.
Pay:
$30.00 - $36.00 per hour People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply
Work Location:
In person
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