Career Development Specialist – Youth Workforce Program

About the role

The International Rescue Committee’s Connect2Work program in San Diego empowers opportunity youth ages 16‑24 to achieve economic mobility through education, career exploration, and work‑based learning. As a Career Development Specialist you will provide comprehensive case management, career coaching, and workforce navigation services to help youth overcome barriers and secure meaningful employment.

Key responsibilities

• Conduct outreach, eligibility screening, intake, and enrollment of participants.
• Complete assessments and develop individualized Service Strategies (ISS) for each youth.
• Provide ongoing career coaching, case management, and goal monitoring.
• Coordinate referrals and supportive services to remove participation barriers.
• Maintain regular contact with participants to promote engagement and successful outcomes.
• Collaborate with employers, educational institutions, community partners, and IRC staff to facilitate education, training, paid work experiences, credential attainment, and job placement.

Required profile

• Solutions‑driven, passionate change‑maker with a commitment to empowering young adults.
• Ability to work with diverse youth populations, including refugees, immigrants, English learners, justice‑involved, homeless, foster, and parenting youth.
• Strong relationship‑building, creativity, and flexibility.
• Commitment to trauma‑informed, culturally responsive, participant‑centered service delivery.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.

Required skills

• Case management expertise.
• Career coaching experience.
• Knowledge of WIOA Youth Program Elements.
• Familiarity with trauma‑informed and strengths‑based approaches.

What we offer

• Opportunity to make a lasting impact on vulnerable youth.
• Collaborative nonprofit work environment.
• Professional development and training.
• Competitive benefits package.