Youth Engagement Coordinator

CAO of WNY, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer.
JOB DESCRIPTION
Job Title: Youth Engagement Coordinator
Division: Buffalo Futures
Department: Buffalo Futures
Location: 45 Jewett Avenue
Buffalo, NY 14215
Supervisor: Senior Director
Salary Range: $20 hourly
FLSA Status: Non-exempt
Work Status: Part Time (25-29 hrs. weekly)
EEOC Job Classification: Professional
Last Revision Date: October 2025
JOB SUMMARY
This position is responsible for recruiting and fostering meaningful connections between youth participants and the Buffalo Futures program. This role focuses on creating inclusive, empowering experiences that support youth development, leadership, and community involvement ultimately leading to employment or enrollment into training programs. Responsible for leading outreach efforts, facilitate youth-led initiatives, support program activities, and serve as a mentor and advocate for young people. Ensures that youth voices are heard, valued, and reflected in the organization’s work and builds trusting relationships and coordinates impactful programming.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES
Primary Responsibilities:
•Develop and implement recruitment strategy for youth 16-24 yrs in collaboration with Buffalo Futures leadership.
•Develop and implement youth engagement strategies that promote career readiness, employment opportunities, and leadership development.
•Support youth in navigating employment pathways, including account creation, job applications, training program enrollment, interview preparation, and workplace expectations.
•Facilitate regular check-ins with youth participants to assess employment goals, progress, and barriers, providing guidance and referrals as needed in collaboration with Success Coaches.
•Collaborate with staff and community partners to align youth programming with workforce development initiatives and local labor market trends.
•Track and report employment outcomes, including job placements, retention, and skill development, using program databases and reporting tools.
•Assist in the planning and execution of youth-led events and presentations, ensuring employment themes and success stories are highlighted.
•Provide mentorship and support to youth participants, fostering confidence, professionalism, and self-advocacy in employment settings.
•Contribute to outreach efforts by promoting employment opportunities and youth success stories through social media, newsletters, and community events.
•Assist with identifying long-term community impact goals and steps needed to achieve the desired outcomes for youth.
•Develop relationships with schools and community organizations that service disconnected youth and young adults; proactively seek to generate referrals.
CAO of WNY, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer.

•Follow procedures regarding documentation and confidentiality.
•Build structure for the Buffalo Futures Youth Council and leadership development curriculum implementation.
•Manage and Post on all Buffalo Futures Social Media Platforms.
•Maintain continuous engagement with Buffalo Future’s Youth and Community Partners.
Secondary Responsibilities:
•Must present a professional image in conduct, attitude, and attire.
•Satisfactory completion of mandatory trainings.
•Additional duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience:

• High School Diploma or GED is required
• Associate or Bachelor’s degree, or college coursework preferred.
• Minimum of One (1) year experience working in community outreach, re-engagement programs, or working with youth  (16-24 years old)

Skills and Abilities: 

• Familiarity with best practices in youth engagement, mentorship, and leadership development.
• Ability to establish and maintain strong partnerships with employers, community organizations, and youth participants.
• Experience planning and executing youth-centered events, workshops, and employment-related programming.
• Strong verbal and written communication abilities, including public speaking, outreach, and digital correspondence.
• Sensitivity to diverse backgrounds and experiences; ability to create inclusive and affirming environments for youth.
•  Proficiency in tracking program outcomes, analyzing data, and generating reports to inform decision making.
• Capacity to respond to challenges with creativity and flexibility, especially in dynamic youth-centered settings.
• Comfort using tools such as Google Workspace, Canva, CRM systems, and social media platforms to support engagement and outreach.
• Commitment to ethical standards, confidentiality, and representing the organization with integrity in all interactions.
• Adaptability, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite
• Knowledge of Google Suite Software, managing social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Tike Tok, LinkedIn.

Physical Demands:

• Must be able to read, write routine reports, and speak effectively with a diverse community.
• Specific vision abilities include close vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
• Must be able to sit for prolonged periods of time while occasionally walking and standing.
• Must have hand, finger coordination to type and be able to reach with hands and arms.
• Ability to lift/move up to 25 pounds.

  Application Requirements:

   

• Physical examination record or pass physical examination by a CAO physician
• Valid NYS Driver’s License and proof of motor vehicle insurance coverage
• Completion of the following documents:
  • CAO Employment application
  • NYS SCR Clearance Form with acceptable clearance
  • Criminal Record Certification and free of criminal convictions of crimes against children (misdemeanor or felony)
  • Fingerprinting required.
  • Release for Reference Checks

Salary : $20