Workforce Development Specialist

The Workforce Development Specialist is responsible for supporting and coordinating a portfolio of experiential learning programs that connect learners with career and professional development opportunities throughout Maine. This position will develop and manage partnerships, events, and programming that expand access to internships, apprenticeships, pre-apprenticeships, and other workforce development initiatives. The Specialist will report directly to the Manager of Workforce Partnerships and work closely with external partners including employers, industry groups, workforce development boards/organizations, and education providers (high schools/CTE schools, adult education, and 2- and 4-year colleges and universities) to strengthen connections between education and industry. Additionally, this role will assist the leadership team in designing and implementing broader strategic goals, such as incubating pilot programs and fostering industry partnerships to enhance workforce pathways. Experiential Learning Program Development and Management Work closely with employers to create, implement, and expand internship, registered apprenticeship, and certified pre-apprenticeship programs Design, promote, and facilitate events focused on expanding quality experiential learning opportunities for learners working for Maine employers Contribute to strategies for recruitment, assessment, development, and retention throughout the apprentice and pre-apprentice lifecycle Planning and execution of virtual and in-person events for the Maine Career Catalyst summer internship program Monitor progress on programs to ensure milestones and outcomes are met while identifying lessons learned through evaluation findings and implementing program improvement recommendations Support year-round program engagement with partner businesses, their in-school and opportunity-youth hires, program alumni, and campus events and activities Support and maintain relevant program marketing and social media content Support employers and other key partners with challenges encountered with internship and apprenticeship programs and remediate these challenges and put proactive solutions in place for future cycles Report successes and challenges to internal and external stakeholders Represent Educate Maine at meetings, conferences, events, and partner activities across the state to advance professional development and cultivate external relationships Organizational Initiatives Collaborate with leadership to develop and implement workforce development and experiential learning initiatives, including emerging projects that advance Educate Maine's mission and strategic priorities Contribute to professional development programs and other engagement or awareness events hosted by Educate Maine or in partnership with other organizations Support planning and execution of the annual Education Symposium Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience Minimum of 2 years of progressively responsible experience in relevant fields, such as workforce development, organizational development, human resources, non-profit management, recruiting Ability to self-start and creatively solve problems Excellent verbal and written communications; ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing to diverse stakeholders. Strong partnership and collaboration skills Ability to work autonomously as well as with a team Ability and willingness to work flexible hours including nights and weekends Ability to organize and direct multiple activities simultaneously Ability to travel regionally and nationally and have a valid driver's license This position will require the ability to commute to events and meetings throughout Maine. This position is hybrid and, while flexible, is designed to be in person 2-3 days per week on average for employees located near Educate Maine's Portland office. Applications are accepted from across the state, with remote work flexibility for candidates located outside the Portland area; however, frequent in-person participation in meetings, programs, and events throughout Maine is required. This position requires evening and weekend hours and overnight travel as needed. Benefits include 13 paid holidays, 15 vacation days in the first year of hire, and 12 sick days per year. We offer a competitive employer health insurance plan including an HSA plan, partial premium coverage for spouses and dependents, life insurance, short-term disability insurance, 5% employer contributions for retirement, and annual professional development funding to support your professional growth. Employees may also elect dental and vision insurance. We offer a competitive salary commensurate with experience. #J-18808-Ljbffr Educate Maine