CTE Co-Op Program Instructor - PATHS

TITLE: CTE Co-Op Program Instructor - PATHS

POSITION OVERVIEW:

The CTE Co-Op Program Instructor bridges the gap between classroom instruction and real-world careers. In this role, you will build and sustain a network of employer partnerships, guide students from interest to placement, and ensure every work-based learning experience�Co-op, internship, job shadow, apprenticeship, or ELO�is meaningful, safe, and aligned with Maine DOE CTE standards. You will be a connector: connecting students to opportunity, employers to talent, and PATHS programs to the broader workforce community. 

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

Student Placement & Support

• Coordinate and manage all Co-op and ELO placements from initial interest through program completion.
• Help students identify career goals and secure placements that align with their CTE program and interests.
• Prepare students for the workplace through instruction in employability skills, professionalism, workplace safety, and communication.
• Conduct regular site visits and maintain active communication with students, employers, instructors, and families throughout each placement.
• Support students in building r�sum�s, cover letters, interview skills, and individualized career plans.
• Maintain accurate, up-to-date student records, evaluations, training agreements, and all required documentation.

Employer & Community Partnerships

• Develop and steward relationships with local businesses, industry partners, community organizations, and workforce agencies.
• Proactively recruit new employers to expand the breadth and quality of student placement opportunities.
• Represent PATHS at community and industry events; promote work-based learning as a workforce pipeline benefit to employers.
• Coordinate employer advisory engagement and industry feedback to strengthen program relevance.

Program Coordination & Compliance

• Ensure all experiences meet Maine DOE CTE requirements and PATHS policies, including training agreements, safety documentation, and labor law compliance.
• Partner with instructors to align student placements with technical competencies and CTE learning standards.
• Maintain records tracking participation, hours, certifications, and outcomes; support state reporting and grant documentation as needed.
• Deliver pre-placement curriculum using platforms such as Google Classroom and other relevant technology tools.

Collaboration & Communication

• Work closely with PATHS instructors, counselors, administrators, ESOL staff, and sending school liaisons to support all students.
• Communicate proactively with students, families, employers, and community partners regarding expectations, progress, and outcomes.
• Participate in staff meetings, professional development, advisory committees, career fairs, and student recognition events.

CORE COMPETENCIES:

• Relationship-building: Gains the trust of students, employers, and colleagues; grows and sustains a strong partner network
• Student-centered practice: Committed to equity and inclusion; skilled at supporting students with varied backgrounds and needs
• Organization & follow-through: Manages complex logistics with accuracy; keeps records, deadlines, and stakeholders on track
• Communication: Clear and professional across audiences, from a nervous student to a CEO.
• Problem-solving: Anticipates and resolves placement challenges with creativity and good judgment

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Eligibility for or ability to obtain Maine Cooperative Education 860 certification
• Demonstrated experience in CTE, workforce development, education, counseling, or business and industry partnerships
• Knowledge of cooperative education principles, work-based learning models, labor laws, and workplace safety standards
• Strong relationship-building, organizational, and communication skills
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities across diver