Workforce Development Manager

About Us

Paraquad champions equity and independence for people with disabilities through services partnerships, education, and advocacy.

Position Summary

The Workforce Development Manager provides leadership, oversight, and coordination of all employment and workforce development programs, including continuing education, SWEP (Summer Work Experience Program), and our culinary training program. Responsibilities include program development and outcomes, compliance, staff supervision, and service provision.

Key Responsibilities

Program Management

• Develop and implement workforce development services in alignment with CIL mission and Independent Living Philosophy for Continuing Education, Summer Work Experience Program, and Culinary Program.
• Ensure effective day-to-day operations of all workforce development programs and monitor enrollment, participation, and completion to maximize quality service provision, compliance, efficiencies, and cost effectiveness.
• Develop and implement program policies and procedures, tracking mechanisms, and trainings to meet current regulatory and funding requirements and quality standards.
• Perform intakes, assessments, and orientation for new participants and provide timely documentation required by funders and according to Paraquad's policies.
• Collaborate with supervisor to develop annual budget for the department and manage revenue and expenses.
• Use data to drive decision making, innovation, and program revenue.
• Stay current on workforce trends and disability employment best practices.
  
  

Staff Supervision

• Hire, train, supervise, and evaluate staff to ensure high quality service delivery.
• Set clear expectation for staff to ensure efficiency of day-to-day operations and overall outcomes.
• Support staff in addressing participant barriers and employer issues.
• Conduct periodic site visits to monitor program operation.
• Perform quality assurance checks to ensure quality service delivery and accurate record keeping.
  
  

Employer and Community Partnerships

• Develop and maintain partnerships with local employers.
• Create job pipelines for culinary program participants.
• Build relationships with Vocational Rehabilitation, schools and transition programs, workforce development agencies, and community colleges and training providers.
• Represent the organization in workforce and disability networks.
• Increase referrals and community awareness around workforce development programs.
  
  

Job Placement and Retention

• Coordinate Summer Work Experience Program participants and job coaches.
• Oversee job placement for culinary students.
• Provide consistent job coaching for culinary students through adjunct staff, with the possibility of occasional one-on-one coaching support as needed.
  
  

Program Compliance

• Monitor program adherence to requirements of contracts and funding agreements.
• Measure program efficiency and effectiveness and participant satisfaction.
• Establish and maintain program data and outcomes, performing reports as required by funders and Paraquad's policies.
  
  

Miscellaneous

• Use own vehicle for local travel.
• Complete the minimum level of continuing education hours established by funders.
• Understanding of and commitment to the independent living philosophy.
• Protect participant's rights to privacy and confidentiality in all forms of communication.
• Attend and participate in all required trainings and meetings.
• Other duties as assigned.
  
  

Required Qualifications

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in social work, rehabilitation, education, workforce development, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• 3–5 years of experience in workforce development, employment services, or related programs
• 2 years of supervisory experience
• Experience working with individuals with disabilities or in a human services setting
  
  

Skills And Competencies

• Excellent Customer Service
• Self-Starting Independent Worker
• Time Management
• Multi-tasking
• Professionalism
• Team attitude
• Attention to detail
• Leadership
• Teaching / Public Speaking
• High Level of Organization
• Computer Literacy in Microsoft Office Program and Database Environment
• Excellent Written/Oral Communication
• Use of personal vehicle for local transportation.
  
  

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Rehabilitation Counseling preferred
• Workplace Supports Certification or completion in first year of employment
• Knowledge of Vocational Rehabilitation or workforce funding systems
• Experience with job placement, employer engagement, and retention strategies
• Familiarity with culinary or vocational training programs
• Experience working with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities
• Knowledge and understanding of the philosophy and goals of independent living/disability rights
• Knowledge of the operations of non-profit organizations
  
  

Working Conditions

• Must be able to traverse for prolonged periods of time.
• Must be able to remain in a stationary position 25% of the time.
• Needs to move about inside the office to access file cabinets, office machinery, etc. and positions self to maintain files in file cabinets.
• Frequently moves self in different positions to assist participants on and off equipment including tight and confined spaces.
• Constantly operates a computer and other office productivity machinery, such as copy machine, phone system, and computer printer.
• Must be able to communicate information and ideas so others will understand and must be able to exchange accurate information in these situations.
• Must be able to work full-time in office environment. Occasional flexibility with schedule as needed.
• Requires travel within 30 miles of the office and further as necessary.
  
  

EEO Statement

Paraquad is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to an individual's sex, race, color, religion, age, disability status, protected veteran status, national or ethnic origin, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation. We are dedicated to building a diverse community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment- fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. Our employees proudly reflect the diversity and ideas of the communities we serve.

Accommodation: If you are unable to use our online application process due to a disability, please contact Barb Cant at 314-289-4200 or bcant@paraquad.org with the nature of your accommodation request.

Employee Certification

This job description is not intended to cover all activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice. Additionally, this job description does not constitute a contract of employment, and the company may exercise its employment-at-will right at any time.

I have read and understand the requirements of the job for which I have applied. I can meet these requirements with or without reasonable accommodation.