Manager, Youth Career Development

at  Visions of Science Network for Learning

POSITION OVERVIEW

As the Manager of Youth Career Development, you will oversee all facets of the program’s design, implementation, and continuous improvement. You will develop innovative strategies, manage complex projects, and strengthen relationships with key stakeholders—including educational institutions, industry partners, corporate STEM organizations, funders, and community organizations—to ensure youth participants receive high-quality experiential learning and career development opportunities. You will also lead a team of coordinators and facilitators to implement successful programming, and provide effective mentorship to youth participants. Your leadership will help youth navigate academic pathways, access financial supports, and build the confidence and skills necessary for success in STEM-related postsecondary programs and careers.

QUALIFICATIONS

• At least 5+ years of experience in program management, project leadership, or youth development, ideally in the nonprofit or education sector.
• Demonstrated experience working with youth from underrepresented communities in STEM and/or strong understanding of STEM barriers impacting these communities
• Demonstrated expertise in designing and implementing experiential learning or work-integrated learning programs, particularly those serving high school youth.
• Proven track record in developing partnerships with schools, employers, funders, and community organizations, as well as facilitating internship or job shadowing placements.
• Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities, timelines, and stakeholders effectively, ensuring high-quality program delivery and compliance with funder requirements.
• Advanced leadership capabilities, demonstrated by managing teams or multiple projects simultaneously, optimizing performance, and nurturing staff development.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with success in building and maintaining relationships that support youth success in STEM pathways.
• Problem-solving skills, adaptability, and discretion in handling participant information and working with diverse communities.
• Proficiency in productivity, project management, and collaboration tools (e.g., Microsoft Office, Google Suite, Asana), and comfort with virtual platforms and tools that enhance remote program delivery.

• Lead the overall implementation and ongoing development of the Launch Program, ensuring objectives related to leadership development, academic coaching, career exploration, and paid internship placements are met.
• Manage day-to-day operations, including participant recruitment and selection, coordination of workshops and training sessions, and facilitation of mentorship, job shadowing, and internship activities.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with post-secondary institutions, industry partners, and corporate STEM organizations to secure internship opportunities, mentorship resources, and academic support for participants.
• Collaborate with internal teams to develop tools for measuring program impact, tracking participant progress, and using data to inform continuous improvement.
• Mentor and support program staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment that encourages innovation and participant-centered design.
• Communicate program updates, outcomes, and impact stories to internal and external stakeholders, contributing to a culture of transparency, collaboration, and results-driven practice.
• Identify opportunities for funding, resources, and capacity-building that support the program’s long-term sustainability and growth.
• Ensure effective communication, resource allocation, and strategic planning throughout the program lifecycle.