Workforce Development Specialist

Job Title - Workforce Development

Location - Long Island City, NY, 11101

Duration - 6 Months (Possible extension)

Work Hours: 8:30 – 5:00PM

About the Role

Opportunity Academy is looking for an organized, dependable, and motivated Contract Processor (Assistant Program Coordinator) to support the day-to-day operation of the program. The Contract Processor (Assistant Program Coordinator) will work closely with the Director of Operations, IOMU, and the Program Coordinator to help recruit participants, coordinate internships, support employer partnerships, track participant progress, and assist with training activities. This position requires someone who can build relationships, stay organized, communicate effectively, and manage multiple responsibilities at the same time. The role involves regular interaction with participants, employers, mentors, and community partners and is an important part of ensuring a positive experience for everyone involved in the program.

Responsibilities:

Program Administration

• Support the daily operation of Opportunity Academy and related workforce development programs.
• Coordinate program activities, schedules, meetings, and events.
• Organize orientations, workshops, training sessions, and special events.
• Prepare emails, reports, presentations, and other program materials.
• Maintain participant, employer, and program records.
• Track deadlines, program requirements, and follow-up activities.
• Assist with program reporting and other administrative tasks.

Recruitment and Participant Support

• Conduct outreach to prospective applicants and respond to program inquiries.
• Schedule interviews, orientations, and onboarding activities.
• Assist participants with resumes, interview preparation, and workplace readiness.
• Maintain regular communication with participants throughout the program.
• Monitor attendance, participation, and overall progress.
• Track completion of assignments, quizzes, exams, assessments, and other program requirements.
• Review participant work and provide feedback to support learning and professional development.
• Follow up with participants regarding missing assignments, attendance concerns, or other program requirements.
• Maintain records of participant progress and program completion.
• Address participant concerns and connect individuals with appropriate resources and support.

Internship Placement and Employer Relations

• Assist with matching participants to internship opportunities.
• Coordinate interviews and placement activities with host firms.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with employer partners.
• Serve as a point of contact for participants, supervisors, and host firms.
• Conduct regular follow-up with employers and participants during internship placements.
• Help resolve workplace or placement-related concerns.
• Participate in employer meetings, site visits, and recruitment events as needed.

Training and Events

• Assist with planning and coordinating workshops, networking events, employer panels, and professional development activities.
• Support workshop facilitation and participant engagement activities.
• Track attendance and participation in training sessions and events.
• Assist with preparing training materials and program resources.

Qualifications:

Required

• Associate's degree and at least two years of related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience in workforce development, internship programs, education, human services, program coordination, or a related field.
• Outstanding writing, presentation, and communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Experience working with cross-functional teams and diverse groups of people.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
• Ability to learn new software and technology platforms quickly.
• Strong interpersonal, customer service, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel locally as needed.

Preferred

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Public Administration, Education, Human Services, Workforce Development, or a related field.
• Experience recruiting, screening, or supporting program participants.
• Experience coordinating internships, mentoring programs, workforce development programs, or career readiness initiatives.
• Experience facilitating workshops, trainings, presentations, or group activities.