MIWDI Career Navigator Michigan-AFL-CIO Lansing, MI Job Details Full-time $60,000 a year 1 day ago Benefits Health insurance Dental insurance Paid time off Vision insurance 401(k) matching Qualifications Job search strategy coaching Monitoring employment counseling client progress Establishing local partnerships in a community engagement role Recruiting agency candidate sourcing Teaching workforce readiness Interview coaching Student recruitment Spreadsheets Candidate pipeline management Job matching for clients Direct sourcing Client assessment in social work Direct sourcing recruitment Employment support plan implementation Metrics Reporting Mid-level Employment counseling Communication platforms Databases Documentation tools Bachelor's degree Data management Industry trends Client referral services Workforce development advising (career advising) Organizational skills Job search strategy workshop facilitation Building employer relationships Housing services Job interview preparation (career advising) Full Job Description Career Navigator
- Job Description Reports to:
Statewide Program Supervisor FLSA Status:
Exempt Job Type:
Full-Time Work Location:
Statewide hybrid/in-person (regional focus)
Supervisory Responsibility:
No Effective Date:
2026 Position Overview Career Navigators play a critical role in the Michigan AFL-CIO Workforce Development Institute's apprenticeship readiness and workforce development programs. This position integrates recruitment, case management, career coaching, placement support, and retention services. Career Navigators conduct community outreach, build regional partnerships, recruit participants, provide holistic support throughout training, and assist graduates in securing and maintaining employment, particularly union apprenticeship opportunities and skilled trades pathways. Career Navigators maintain a statewide scope , while having a primary regional focus as assigned: West MI
- 1 Career Navigator must be located in (Calhoun County) Central MI
- 1 Career Navigator must be located in (Flint, Saginaw, Jackson, Lansing, Ypsilanti) East MI
- 1 Career Navigator must be located in (Detroit and Pontiac) Two Career Navigators will be located anywhere within the state of Michigan All will serve the entire state regardless of where they are located.
I don't want to define them as region specific positions but rather the candidates chosen must meet those criteria so we have field team spread across for more direct community work. All positions support programming and special initiatives anywhere in Michigan as needed. Key Responsibilities Recruitment, Outreach & Community Engagement Conduct outreach, recruitment, and marketing for all apprenticeship readiness and workforce development programs statewide. Develop and implement strategies to source, attract, screen, and select high-quality candidates aligned with program expectations. Build and maintain relationships with community organizations, education partners, union affiliates, employers, and referral partners to strengthen applicant pipelines. Facilitate information sessions, orientations, and community presentations (virtual and in-person). Collaborate with the communications team to support local marketing efforts. Participant Assessment, Case Management & Support Services Conduct eligibility screenings, comprehensive assessments, and strengths/barriers evaluations using a holistic model. Develop Individual Employment Plans (IEPs) and monitor progress regularly Support instruction with job readiness training, resume guidance, mock interviews, and soft skills development. Support participants in reducing employment barriers by referring and connecting them to community resources (housing, food, transportation, childcare, etc.). Maintain accurate participant documentation, databases, and reporting in accordance with deadlines. Instructional & Program Support Coordinate with instructors, program coordinators, and internal teams to ensure seamless participant experience from recruitment to employment. Support delivery of training, workshops, and cohort activities, including occasional evening or weekend sessions based on program needs. Placement & Follow-Up Connect program graduates to employment, apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, or work-based learning opportunities. Promote job-ready participants to employers, unions, and partner organizations. Provide post-employment follow-up, retention coaching, and wage progression support for both participants and employers. Track employment outcomes, retention metrics, and placement data. Regional & Statewide Collaboration Serve as the primary navigator for the assigned geographic region listed above. Reliable transportation to travel regularly throughout the assigned region and statewide as needed for program delivery, special events, and outreach initiatives. Contribute to statewide strategic recruitment planning, labor market awareness, and continuous program improvement. Qualifications Bachelor's degree is preferred, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Experience in workforce development, education/training programs, social services, or related fields. Demonstrated success providing case management, participant coaching, or community-based services. Experience with recruitment, outreach, or talent acquisition strategies strongly preferred. Knowledge of labor market trends, apprenticeship pathways, and career development best practices. Ability to work effectively with diverse populations, including low-income individuals and those facing employment barriers. Strong organizational skills; ability to manage a dynamic workload and travel regularly. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to present to groups and conduct one-on-one coaching. Proficiency with databases, spreadsheets, digital communication platforms, and documentation tools. Core Competencies Critical Thinking & Analysis
- Uses sound judgment to assess needs and develop effective employment plans. Problem Solving
- Creates participant-centered solutions and adapts to changing factors. Case Management Expertise
- Applies structured, strengths-based strategies. Communication & Interpersonal Skills
- Builds trusting relationships with participants, employers, and community stakeholders. Community & Resource Navigation
- Leverages deep knowledge of community resources to reduce barriers. Justice, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion
- EEOC Our organization is an equal opportunity employer, and we actively seek to build diversity among our officers, staff, and members.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic. Women, people of color, LGBTQ individuals, veterans, and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Qualifications & Eligibility Preference is given to candidates who meet the following criteria:
Experience:
Minimum of one (1) year of experience with the Apprenticeship Readiness program as a WDI employee.
Program Knowledge:
Successful participation in an apprenticeship readiness cohort.
Performance:
No disciplinary actions in your personnel record for the past one (1) year.
Logistics:
Must have reliable transportation for regular regional and statewide travel.
Benefits & Compensation Salary:
$60,000.00 per year.
Healthcare:
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
Retirement:
401(k) plan with organizational matching/contributions.
Paid Time Off:
Competitive vacation, sick leave, and holiday schedule.
