Career Readiness Coach

Career Readiness Coach at Hopeworks Career Readiness Coach at Hopeworks in Belleville, New Jersey Posted in 15 days ago.

Type:

full-time

Job Description:

CAREER READINESS COACH

Hopeworks is a nonprofit social enterprise dedicated to transforming the lives of young adults ages 17-26. Using a trauma-informed approach, we provide cutting-edge training in web development, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and data visualization, alongside individualized coaching, academic support, and direct work experience. Our model combines real-world business experience with personal development and technical training, ensuring young professionals are fully prepared to secure and thrive in living-wage careers. Hopeworks operates its own client-serving businesses in web development, GIS, and data services-allowing participants to work on real projects for clients while building professional skills, confidence, and networks. This integrated approach consistently produces exceptional outcomes in education re-engagement, job placement, and long-term career growth. Position & Responsibilities The Career Readiness Coach prepares, supports, and holds young professionals accountable to securing and maintaining permanent, living-wage employment. This role blends weekly 1:1 coaching, goal-setting, and strategic job search support with a strong emphasis on measurable results, data use, and long-term career retention. This is a Full-Time Position.

Specific tasks:

Participant Engagement & Accountability

• Ensure assigned young professionals fully participate in all aspects of the Hopeworks training and employment program to secure and retain living-wage jobs. Individual Career Planning
• Meet weekly to set, review, and advance progress on each participant's DREAMS Plan (training, education, employment, and financial goals). Job Readiness Preparation
• Conduct mock interviews, coach on professional presentation, and guide the creation of resumes, portfolios, and professional profiles. Employment Connection
• Actively source living-wage job leads, support applications, interview prep, and collaborate with staff to address barriers to success. Data Tracking & Reporting
• Maintain accurate records in Salesforce CRM, tracking placements, retention, wages, and engagement to drive continuous improvement.

Key Performance Indicators:

Job Placement Rate:

? 90% (# of job placements / # of internships completed).

Average Starting Wage:

? $42,000 (average starting wage of permanent placements).

Average Meeting Rate:

? 85% (# of meetings held / total caseload).

Requirements:

3+ years in career coaching, workforce development, recruiting, HR, or related fields (experience in high-demand industries a plus). Excellent interpersonal, communication, and facilitation skills; ability to motivate while holding others accountable. Strong organization and time management; comfortable managing multiple participants and priorities at once. Problem-solving mindset; adaptable to changing needs and participant circumstances. Familiarity with trauma-informed practices (training provided as needed). Experience working with diverse populations; prior work with young adults and/or individuals facing barriers to employment preferred. In essence, the perfect candidate: Is action-oriented, and not satisfied until they have exceeded the goal. Loves interacting with young people, both to celebrate their successes and to challenge them to improve. Is goal-oriented and tracks and measures progress through measurable outcomes. Is a true cheerleader and coach, able to manage both individual relationships and groups.