Are you passionate about empowering young people and helping them achieve their career goals? Do you want to make a lasting impact on the future workforce? If so, we have the perfect opportunity for you!
Junior Achievement of Southern Massachusetts (JA) is growing, and we are thrilled to announce that we are hiring a Workforce Development Specialist to lead our workforce development programs. This full-time position is based in downtown New Bedford, Massachusetts, and serves communities across Southern Massachusetts, including Greater New Bedford, Greater Taunton, Greater Fall River, and Cape Cod.
Why Join Junior Achievement?
At Junior Achievement, we are dedicated to inspiring and preparing young people for success in the global economy. As the nation’s largest organization focused on work readiness, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy, we ignite the spark that helps students build the skills they need for a brighter future.
This role is perfect for someone who is motivated, resourceful, and passionate about career development and youth empowerment. As the Workforce Development Specialist, you will oversee impactful programs such as:
JA Workforce Pathways for Youth Program
A structured, research-based initiative that provides personalized career coaching and skill-building resources for young adults. Participants engage in virtual coaching sessions, create professional portfolios, and receive guidance from trained volunteer mentors.
JA Advancing Leaders Academy Workforce Development Program
A program designed to support out-of-school youth with a comprehensive approach to education, career readiness, and personal development. Through direct services and partnerships, participants gain the skills and connections they need to thrive in today’s workforce.
What You’ll Do
As the Workforce Development Specialist, you will:
✔️ Lead workforce development programs across our Southern Massachusetts communities
✔️ Recruit, engage, and support participants in achieving their career and educational goals
✔️ Build partnerships with community organizations and businesses
✔️ Ensure program success by adhering to implementation models and tracking outcomes
✔️ Work collaboratively with the President & CEO to set workforce development strategies
What We’re Looking For
✅ Bachelor’s degree and/or 2+ years of relevant experience
✅ Strong organizational and communication skills
✅ Experience in youth engagement and program delivery
✅ Ability to build relationships with diverse community partners
✅ Passion for education, career development, and youth empowerment
Bonus points if you have experience working with nonprofits, workforce development programs, or youth-serving organizations!
Compensation & Benefits
💰 Salary Range: $50,000 – $57,000 per year
📱 Cell phone stipend
🏥 Comprehensive benefits package (medical, dental, vision, life insurance)
🏖️ Paid time off & holidays
📚 Professional development opportunities
🎉 A fun and fast-paced work environment with a mission that matters!
Ready to Make an Impact? Apply Today!
If you’re excited about this opportunity and want to help shape the future workforce, we’d love to hear from you!
📩 To Apply: Email your resume and cover letter to Jeffrey Pelletier, President & CEO, at Jeffrey.Pelletier@ja.org.
Join us in empowering the next generation of leaders and innovators! 🚀
