Career Pathways and Student Transitions Manager

About the role#

The Career Pathways and Student Transitions Manager provides leadership for workforce development programming in Chicagoland. This role ensures cohesive delivery of career planning, academic transitions, and employment support for adult immigrants and refugees. You will lead a multi-site team, foster a collaborative culture across departments, and ensure that program goals align with the organization's mission and values.

What you'll do#

• Provide direct supervision, support, and coaching to Career Pathways Specialists and dotted-line support to Student Success Coaches.
• Promote integration within Workforce Development to ensure coordinated recruitment and referrals.
• Maintain relationships with community colleges, training providers, and employer partners to support industry placement and retention.
• Monitor progress toward key outcomes such as training completion, credential attainment, employment placement, and retention.
• Coordinate with the Children & Youth team to ensure older youth receive early career exploration and job readiness support.
• Lead team meetings, case reviews, and cross-functional planning sessions.
• Ensure staff documentation meets the standards of grant-funded programs.

What you'll need#

• A mature and personal Christian faith, with a commitment to the mission, vision, and values of World Relief.
• A Bachelor’s degree.
• Strong supervisory and coaching skills across diverse functional roles.
• Understanding of career pathways and workforce development systems.
• Ability to manage a regional, multi-site team.
• Strong communication, problem-solving, and cross-cultural skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
• A valid Driver’s License and a good driving record.

Location & details#

• Location: Chicagoland, Illinois.
• Status: Full-time.
• Schedule: Ability to work a flexible schedule, including occasional early mornings, evenings, and weekends.