Dynamic and Results-Driven Step Up Employer Engagement Associate for Youth Employment Program

Introduction to Achieve Twin Cities and the Step Up Program

Achieve Twin Cities is a leading organization dedicated to inspiring and equipping young people in Minneapolis and Saint Paul for careers, college, and life. As part of its mission, Achieve Twin Cities oversees the Step Up Youth Employment Program, which has been instrumental in preparing today's youth for tomorrow's careers by recruiting, training, and placing over 1,300 Minneapolis young people (ages 14-21) in paid internships each year with more than 100 Twin Cities employers. This program has yielded a competitive talent pipeline, a stronger economy, and millions of dollars in wages for Step Up interns since its inception in 2003.

Job Overview

The Step Up Employer Engagement Associate plays a vital role in supporting Step Up partner companies and staff to maximize summer internship opportunities. This position requires a strong and diverse skill set to drive success, including the ability to work collaboratively, build trusting relationships, and commit to anti-racism and equity in accessing postsecondary career and education opportunities. The ideal candidate will be task-oriented, results-driven, and have excellent oral and written communication skills, with a determination to make a positive impact on the lives of young people.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver strategies for engaging current and prospective employers at Minneapolis-St. Paul companies through email campaigns, presentations, and networking.
• Promote internship opportunities among existing employers and new prospects, collaborating with the Step Up Employer Engagement Manager to set and meet internship goals.
• Provide outstanding customer service to Step Up partner companies, maintaining strong relationships with executive leadership, main contacts, and supervisors.
• Continually update the CRM (customer relationship management) database to track each company's progress in developing internship plans and providing required information/documents.
• Work within a designated industry portfolio to target specific companies based on their interest and growth opportunities.
• Create high-quality internship placements based on employer needs and intern skills and interests, collaborating with the Step Up team to determine the best employer placements for all interns.
• Support Step Up interns, supervisors, and job coaches throughout internships, including onboarding, verifying start dates, and ensuring successful internship starts.
• Serve as a job coach to offer ongoing support to Step Up interns and supervisors, performing formal check-ins and gathering feedback to inform and strengthen Step Up programming.
• Support Step Up youth recruitment and training, including presentations and recruitment tabling at schools and community organizations, as well as work readiness trainings and career enrichment events.

Essential Qualifications

To be successful in this role, the ideal candidate will possess the following essential qualifications:

• Ability to work collaboratively and effectively, building trusting relationships with the Step Up team, employer partners, and young people.
• Commitment to anti-racism and equity in accessing postsecondary career and education opportunities.
• Experience working with populations similar to the young people served by Step Up, with an open, positive attitude and commitment to youth.
• Task-oriented and results-driven, with a willingness to help and complete multiple projects at once.
• Persistence, flexibility, and ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to meet deadlines.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Determination and drive, with excellent problem-solving skills.
• Competency in Microsoft Office Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university or equivalent work experience.

Preferred Qualifications

While not required, the following preferred qualifications will be considered an asset for candidates:

• Experience in sales, communications, or marketing.
• Knowledge and experience in work readiness, secondary education, or college readiness.
• Experience with Microsoft CRM.

Skills and Competencies

To excel in this role, the ideal candidate will possess the following skills and competencies:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with a strong sense of initiative and self-motivation.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills, with the ability to think critically and creatively.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.
• Ability to adapt to changing circumstances and priorities, with a flexible and resilient approach to work.

Career Growth Opportunities and Learning Benefits

As a Step Up Employer Engagement Associate, you will have the opportunity to develop your skills and expertise in a dynamic and supportive environment. You will be part of a team that is passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of young people, and you will have the chance to contribute to the growth and development of the Step Up program. With opportunities for professional development and growth, you will be able to enhance your skills and knowledge, and take your career to the next level.

Work Environment and Company Culture

Achieve Twin Cities is committed to creating a positive and inclusive work environment that values diversity, equity, and inclusion. We believe in fostering a culture of respect, empathy, and understanding, where all employees feel valued, heard, and respected. As a Step Up Employer Engagement Associate, you will be part of a team that is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of young people, and you will have the opportunity to contribute to a positive and supportive work environment.

Compensation, Perks, and Benefits

We offer a competitive compensation package, with a starting hourly rate of $21.60-24.50 per hour (equivalent to approximately $45,000-$51,000 annually), depending on experience. You will also be eligible for a range of benefits, including:

• 18 paid holidays, including three floating holidays and four summer Fridays.
• 18 vacation days in year one, with increases based on length of employment.
• Up to 10 sick days per year, with additional paid leave options for bereavement, compassionate leave, parental leave, and more.
• Medical, health savings account option, dental, vision, life insurance, and annual professional development funds.
• Opportunity for promotion to senior associate after one year.
• A flexible schedule in a hybrid work environment that includes partial remote work.

Conclusion

If you are a motivated and results-driven individual who is passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of young people, we encourage you to apply for the Step Up Employer Engagement Associate position. With a competitive compensation package, opportunities for professional development and growth, and a positive and inclusive work environment, this is an exciting opportunity to join a team that is dedicated to creating a brighter future for all. Don't hesitate – apply today and let's build the future together!