COMMERCE PROGRAM COORDINATOR

Position Summary The Commerce Program Coordinator functions as the Workforce Support Specialist, providing administrative support to the Workforce Development Coordinator, state office, and field. The position will ensure the WAGE Curriculum stays current in both digital and paper format, customizes it to those in institutional settings, provide ongoing training on the WAGE course through the Learning Management System, provide Career Service Provider training to the field, and serve on committees as requested. The Workforce Support Specialist provides mentoring, coaching, and support to adult education and literacy programs to develop, enhance, and evaluate WAGE™, Integrated

Education and Training, career development, and other workforce-focused initiatives. This includes developing career exploration and career-planning tools and strategies, job search strategies, and training Career Coaches in techniques that motivate students to identify their interests, strengths, career goals, and pathways. In addition, this position will participate in site visits, program reviews, trainings, and grant reviews as applicable.

This position maintains current knowledge of changing occupations, employer needs, workforce trends, and education and training opportunities. This position serves as a liaison between employers, workforce agencies, educational institutions, and community organizations to strengthen connections between students, education and training opportunities, and careers that support economic mobility and self-reliance. The role includes directing operational management of WAGE™, supporting approximately thirty-four centers.

Statewide travel, including occasional out-of-state and overnight travel, is required. Irregular work hours, including some weekends, may be necessary. This position requires on-site employment with no remote or hybrid options available.

Preferred Qualifications The formal education equivalent of a bachelor's degree in education, business management, workforce development, social science, or a field directly related to the assigned program area; plus three years of experience in the field of education, business, workforce development, or a related field. Other job-related education and/or experience may be substituted for all or part of these basic requirements, except for certification or licensure requirements. Preferred Additional Position Requirement: Must obtain an approved Career Development certification or instructor credential from the National Career Development Association within one year of hire.

Master’s degree preferred in a related field. Five years of professional experience in counseling, business management, higher education, workforce development, adult education, career development, or a related field. Knowledge of workforce training needs, career development practices, and business and industry partnerships.

Experience in career coaching, education, mentoring, professional development, and technology-supported career services. Professional certification or specialized training in career development is preferred. Strong analytical, communication, and organizational skills, including the ability to analyze data, prepare reports, and deliver presentations.

Experience managing state and federal grants is preferred. Demonstrate initiative, sound judgment, integrity, and the ability to work independently. Proficiency in Microsoft Office products is required.

Knowledge of federal and state laws regarding licensure within the field of education. Knowledge of educational program development, career development practices, and presentation techniques. Knowledge of teaching principles, workforce trends, and career coaching methods.

Ability to interpret and apply applicable portions of federal and state regulations governing educational programs. Ability to research, develop, modify, and conduct educational and career development programs using appropriate technology and digital tools. Ability to prepare, categorize, and document reports.

Ability to evaluate applications and their supporting documentation. Ability to prepare and present information to various groups orally and in writing. Job

Responsibilities and Expected Results Support the Workforce Development Coordinator in the statewide implementation, operational management, and continuous improvement of WAGE™, Integrated

Education and Training (IET), and career development initiatives, including certificate standards, credential attainment, scholarship administration, and alignment with workforce needs and student career outcomes. Assist adult education programs in developing career pathways and incorporating workforce preparation, occupational training, and career development into instructional programs aligned with student goals and regional workforce needs. Develop and implement statewide career development strategies, tools, and resources that help students identify interests, strengths, career goals, and pathways to employment, career advancement, or continued education.

Coordinate statewide professional development for Career Coaches, Adult

Education Instructors, and program personnel on career exploration, motivational coaching, career planning, employment preparation, and strategies that support student success. Coordinate and deliver statewide Career Services Provider (CSP) training and other professional development opportunities to strengthen Career Coaches’ knowledge and skills in career development practices and student support techniques. Maintain statewide records of Career Coaches, including CSP training completion, program assignments, professional development participation, and certification status, when applicable.

Develop and share innovative career coaching techniques, including virtual services, AI-assisted career exploration, and digital resources that allow Career Coaches to effectively support st