Associate Director of Learning and Career Development

Overview

Job Title: Associate Director of Learning and Career Development

Department: Learning and Career Development

Reports to: Sr Director of Youth Programs

FLSA Status: Exempt

Direct Reports: Educational Services Manager, Sr. Manager of Higher Education, Sr. Manager of Workforce Readiness (PREP), Mentoring Program Manager

About A Place Called Home (APCH)

APCH is a dynamic, non-profit youth and community center in South Central Los Angeles, offering a range of programs including education, counseling, mentoring, arts, wellness, and life skills development. We empower youth to discover their potential, pursue higher education, and become active community members who make positive contributions.

Position Summary

The Associate Director of Learning and Career Development is responsible for developing and overseeing programming that fosters academic success, personal development, career readiness, and life skills for teen and young adult members. Under the direction of the Senior Director of Youth Programs, the AD provides strategic leadership to ensure programs align with APCH’s mission and strategic goals. This role involves managing budgetary oversight, collaborating across APCH departments, and developing innovative programs that support teens and young adults in their transition to adulthood, career pathways, and educational attainment.

The AD will lead and supervise a team to deliver high-quality educational, career, and life skills programs, providing both guidance and accountability. They will foster a positive, inclusive environment that promotes growth, achievement, and a culture of continuous learning.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Financial Oversight and Compliance

• Develop and oversee department budgets, ensuring alignment with APCH financial protocols, grant restrictions, and strategic priorities. Work with Development and Accounting to manage expenditures and timelines.
• Oversee all program-related expenditures and reporting, ensuring data is accurately captured for grant updates, board reports, and impact metrics.

Program and Member Development

• Foster a culture of academic excellence and growth, focusing on high school graduation, post-secondary preparation, and career readiness.
• Oversee academic and tutoring programs and ensure they meet the needs of members from elementary to high school.
• Collaboratively create pathways for all youth, regardless of skill level, to participate in learning and career programs.
• Track and support member progress in social, academic, and life skills, and connect with parents to communicate progress and address concerns.
• Support teen involvement in APCH programs and events.

Partnership and Community Engagement

• Build and sustain relationships with community organizations, educational institutions, and local schools to enhance program offerings. Collaborate with APCH partners to ensure goals and member engagement benchmarks are met.
• Partner with local universities and community members to recruit volunteers for academic support and career development programs.

Data Tracking and Reporting

• Track program participation, progress, and outcomes for both APCH members and external participants.
• Maintain accurate records for student evaluations, progress assessments, and program impact.
• Prepare and submit timely reports for grants, board updates, and internal assessments.

Organizational Participation & Culture

• Participate in APCH community events, fostering a sense of belonging and leadership among members and staff. Create a positive, visually engaging learning environment within the department.
• Uphold APCH values (REACH and HEART) and promote ethical and professional standards within all programs and interactions. Collaborate with program leadership to enhance overall policies, procedures, and cross-program opportunities for member growth.

Staff and Program Leadership

• Collaborate with HR to ensure the recruitment, screening, and hiring of staff for the Learning and Career Development department align with APCH values and program goals. Conduct 1:1 meetings, departmental meetings, evaluations, and provide ongoing support to staff.
• Oversee staff performance through regular evaluations, progress monitoring, and coaching to promote a transparent, accountable, and professional work culture.
• Oversee the development and implementation of programs in career development, higher education, mentoring, and life skills. Evaluate and enhance curriculum and program delivery, ensuring alignment with APCH’s mission and long-term strategic outcomes.
• Lead the design and execution of classes, workshops, speaker series, community service, academic support, and college and career readiness activities in collaboration with the respective program manager.
• Build pathways for member development, including clear transition plans (“bridge-out” processes) for members exiting APCH programs.
• Work closely with APCH programs, including Counseling, Wellness, and Arts and Creative Expressions to provide holistic support to members and ensure a seamless integration of services.

Qualifications

Education/Training/Experience

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Social Services, Education, or related field required.

Experience:

• Minimum 3-5 years’ experience working with youth ages 14-22.
• At least 3 years’ experience in a leadership role with staff management responsibilities.
• Technical Skills: Proficient in Microsoft Office and Google Suite. Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.

Core Competencies

• Integrity & Trust: Demonstrates a high level of integrity, accountability, and trustworthiness.
• Adaptability & Accountability: Flexibility in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and commitment to achieving departmental goals.
• Leadership & Communication: Effective communicator and motivator, skilled in managing staff, fostering teamwork, and promoting a culture of open dialogue and continuous improvement.
• Innovation & Problem Solving: Solution-oriented thinker, capable of driving creative approaches to program development and improvement.

Physical and Mental Demands

• Ability to work in a dynamic, high-noise environment typical of a youth center.
• Able to sit, stand, and communicate effectively for extended periods, and occasionally lift up to 25 pounds.

A Place Called Home provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including but not limited to pregnancy), gender expression, gender identity or sexual orientation, military and veteran status, medical condition, ancestry, marital status, citizenship national origin, age, physical and/or mental disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, A Place Called Home complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities.

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