Support Services Navigator - First Steps

Department: Education, Training, and Youth Services

Employment Type: Permanent - Full Time

Location: Downtown Boston - Temple Place

Compensation: $26.98 / hour

Description

First Steps into Early Childhood Education Careers is designed to recruit, train, and place adults who are interested in pursuing careers in early childhood education. The Support Services Navigator provides case management and offers educational and personal counseling, supportive services, and referrals. Working closely with other program staff, the Support Services Navigator helps participants set and achieve their goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide educational and personal counseling to participants to establish educational and occupational goals and suitability as well as identify skill development necessary to secure desired program’s outcomes. 
• Provide one-on-one case management, assessment, and coaching to participant caseload. 
• Provide supportive counseling to ensure adequate program attendance and to resolve any discipline or communication problems between the participant and staff.
• Take the lead responsibility to ensure that information concerning the program and recruitment and outreach of prospective participants is carried out in all neighborhoods and all groups of eligible students.
• Utilize participants’ engagement in program to identify supportive service needs, provide related counseling as required, and make appropriate referrals.
• Orient new participants to the First Step program and assist them in their successful participation. 
• Conduct weekly support workshops for the diverse population of program participants. 
• Maintain counseling records, record related assessment data, and Individual Service Strategies.
• Perform other related duties as assigned from time to time.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

• A minimum of a High School Diploma or equivalent, 1-3 years of relevant experience, and some college coursework or professional certification required. 
• A Bachelor's degree in education, social work, human services, social science or related field is preferred.
• Demonstrated knowledge of working with a diverse customer base, knowledge of Boston’s neighborhoods, and familiarity with local childcare business.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, as well as strong planning and time management skills.
• Bilingual skills are preferred, not required.
• Flexibility, initiative, and ability to work in a team required. 
• Ability to deal sensitively and effectively with individuals of diverse socio-economic and cultural backgrounds.

Expected Salary: $49,103.60 USD. Salary scales are set according to an explicit compensation policy and relevant market data. Due to funding restrictions and our strong focus on internal parity, this salary is thoughtfully aligned with the duties expected for this role, and offers are firm. 

Why Work Here

• Make a Difference: Every day, your work directly impacts the lives of thousands in the Greater Boston community, empowering them and making positive, lasting change.
• Inclusive Environment: ABCD values the diversity of its workforce, with an inclusive culture that respects individuality and promotes collaboration.
• Continuous Learning: We offer numerous training and development opportunities, ensuring our staff remain at the forefront of community action methodologies and strategies.
• Comprehensive Benefits: At ABCD, we take care of our own, providing a competitive benefits package, including health coverage and retirement plans.
• A Legacy of Impact: Join an organization that boasts a legacy spanning over half a century, consistently championing the rights and needs of our community's most vulnerable.
• Teamwork & Camaraderie: Be a part of a passionate team, united in their mission to combat poverty, and ensure every individual can reach their fullest potential.