OUR ORGANIZATION

Kinexus Group, recognized as one of Nonprofit Times 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2026 Best Nonprofits to Work For, is a cutting-edge community development organization with growing initiatives to create an economically thriving Michigan. We are change agents who create solutions for business, workforce, and community challenges to promote economic vitality.

THE TEAM

The Michigan Works Team is made up of dedicated professionals whose role is to develop the local workforce and build a talent pipeline to meet current and future needs of employers in the area.

JOB SUMMARY

The JMG Pathways Specialist plays a critical role in supporting young people in Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties as they explore career options, build essential skills, and navigate a successful path toward postsecondary education, training, or employment. Grounded in the principles of Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates (JMG) and aligned with workforce development programming, this position provides individualized coaching, career advising, and access to real-world experiences that empower youth to achieve long-term economic self-sufficiency.

The JMG Pathways Specialist will work to align in-school and out-of-school services, ensuring youth receive consistent, high-quality support from middle school through graduation and beyond.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Youth Coaching and Career Development

Provide individualized coaching and support to youth in Van Buren county, grounded in the core principles and curriculum of Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates (JMG)
Guide youth in setting personal, academic, and career goals based on their strengths, interests, and labor market information
Deliver JMG-aligned career readiness training, resume support, interview preparation, and life skills coaching
Support youth in exploring high-demand career pathways and making informed decisions about their postsecondary education, training, or employment options

Pathway Access and Program Navigation

Ensure youth understand and have access to workforce development programming and Michigan Works! services, including WIOA Youth, support services, and other available resources
Serve as a knowledgeable resource and connector for youth workforce programs and services, including WIOA. Maintain up-to-date understanding of local, state, and federal policies, handbooks, and best practices to ensure high-quality service delivery.
Connect youth to traditional and non-traditional training opportunities, including apprenticeships, short-term credentials, and work-based learning experiences

Partnership and Collaboration

Partner with schools, employers, training providers, and community organizations to expand youth access to career-connected opportunities
Maintain and nurture referral relationships with service providers, educators, and mentors

Program Operations and Data Management

Maintain accurate records, case notes, and documentation in alignment with JMG standards, federal, state, and local grant requirements and organizational performance expectations
Conduct assessments, track progress, and follow up with youth to ensure continued engagement and goal attainment
Participate in workshops, events, and community outreach to promote youth programming

Team Alignment and Strategic Support

Collaborate with internal teams to align services with broader organizational strategies
Partner with Kinexus Group teams, including policy, quality assurance, and data teams, to ensure youth programming is high-quality, compliant, and consistently implemented in alignment with JMG and statewide standards
Support continuous improvement by actively implementing best practices, incorporating feedback from leadership and peers, and sharing insights from the field to enhance program quality and consistency

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor’s degree in human services, education, workforce development, or related field; or equivalent combination of experience and training
Experience working with at-risk or opportunity youth in a coaching, case management, or educational role