Case Manager - Youth

Description

The Youth Case Manager (SPARK) provides comprehensive case management services to youth and young adults enrolled in the SPARK Program and Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Youth programs. Reporting to the Youth Case Management Coordinator, this role is responsible for determining eligibility, developing individualized education and employment plans, coordinating supportive services, and guiding participants toward successful education, training, and employment outcomes. The Youth Case Manager works closely with students, families, schools, employers, training providers, and community partners to support youth development, career readiness, and long-term success.
Program Delivery

Estimated Effort: 50%

• Screen and assess applicants for WIOA Youth eligibility in accordance with federal, state, and local guidelines; gather and verify required documentation to ensure compliance.
• Assist participants with completion of intake and enrollment requirements, including Eligibility Applications, OMJ Backpack setup, WorkKeys testing, TABE testing, Future Plans assessments, and other career-related evaluations.
• Enter and maintain accurate client data in the ARIES case management system, including documentation of services, barriers, Individual Employment Plans (IEPs), progress monitoring, performance measures, monthly case notes, and follow-up surveys.
• Evaluate applicants to determine appropriateness for services, ensuring program resources are targeted effectively and aligned with youth needs and program goals.
• Provide ongoing case management services, including regular client reviews, follow-ups, attendance monitoring, and issue resolution to support successful completion of service plans.
• Identify youth needs and provide referrals to supportive services and community resources, including CAC programs, social service agencies, schools, and community partners addressing barriers such as housing, transportation, childcare, healthcare, and education.
• Facilitate placement into post-secondary education, training programs, and/or unsubsidized employment through proactive coordination with training providers, employers, and participants.
• Assist youth with resume development, cover letter preparation, interview practice, and job readiness activities; provide retention services to support education and employment persistence.
• Coordinate work experience placements under supervision of the Coordinator, including employer recruitment, participant matching, monitoring performance, and maintaining employer relationships.
• Contribute to the development and delivery of life skills, career readiness, and educational workshops designed to empower youth and young adults.
• Work toward achieving WIOA Youth performance outcomes, including placement at exit, education or employment retention, credential attainment, measurable skill gains, and wage outcomes where applicable.
• Support achievement of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) aligned with the agency's strategic plan.
• Maintain strict confidentiality and protect Personally Identifiable Information (PII) in accordance with agency policies and state and federal regulations.

Case File Management

Estimated Effort: 30%

• Maintain complete, accurate, and compliant case files in accordance with State and Federal WIOA Youth regulations, including eligibility documentation, service records, training accounts, purchase orders, and invoices.
• Perform data validation to ensure consistency between case files and the ARIES case management system.
• Ensure timely and thorough case note documentation, with at least monthly updates detailing participant activities, services provided, progress toward goals, and outcomes.
• Adhere to all CAC, ODJFS, and Workforce Development Area #1 policies and procedures related to documentation standards, confidentiality, and file management.
• Maintain accurate and compliant files for Special Grant programs (e.g., Car Repair Program), ensuring audit readiness at all times.

Outreach Delivery

Estimated Effort: 10%

• Participate in outreach and recruitment activities to increase awareness of the SPARK Program and OhioMeansJobs Pike County services.
• Attend community events, OMJ Van events, school activities, and outreach initiatives to connect with youth, families, employers, and community partners.
• Communicate with local employers, students, school officials, and training providers to promote SPARK Program opportunities and align workforce services with youth needs.
• Provide backup support in the OMJ Center as needed, including greeting clients, assisting with intake paperwork, referring clients to programs, and supporting job search activities.
• Attend meetings, conferences, and trainings related to youth workforce development and communicate relevant information to stakeholders.
• Distribute program information through flyers, presentations, and direct outreach efforts.

Service and Other Responsibilities

Estimated Effort: 10%

• Adhere to all agency safety policies and procedures.
• Serve on CAC committees and collaborate to promote service coordination and continuous improvement.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Supervisor to support program and organizational goals.

Minimum Requirements

Education:
Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Secondary Education, Business Administration, Specialized Studies, or a related field required; or three (3) years of experience working with youth or adults in an employment and training field may be considered in lieu of degree.

Licenses, Certifications, and Accreditations:
Valid Ohio driver's license and ability to be insured under agency insurance.
Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with diverse youth populations in varied settings
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, with strong Excel skills for data analysis and reporting
• Knowledge of youth case management, workforce development, and education/training resources
• Experience using client tracking or case management systems

Working Conditions

This position operates in a well-lighted office environment and requires occasional local and regional travel (up to 40%). Evening and weekend work may be required. The role is fast-paced and involves managing multiple priorities, detailed documentation, and coordination with schools, families, and workforce partners, with low-to-moderate levels of stress.