Job Description

Job Title:

Career Support Specialist

Reports To:

Director of Workforce Development

Department/Location:

Hopewell Road Office

Job Type:

Grade 4 | Full-Time, 40 hour, FLSA non-exempt

Revision Dates:

9/18/25

Overview

:

Are you passionate about helping people discover meaningful career paths? The Industrial Commons (TIC) is looking for a

Career Support Specialist

to join our Workforce Development team. This community-facing role is all about empowering individuals, especially young adults, as they navigate education, job training, and employment opportunities.

You'll lead impactful programs like our 8-week high school graduate internship, the Jobs, Education, Training (J.E.T.) program for ages 18-24, and our hands-on Industrial Sewing Program, all in collaboration with local schools and community partners. Success in this role is more than just program delivery, it's also about building authentic relationships, inspiring confidence, and connecting people to real opportunities in the workforce.

About The Industrial Commons:

The Industrial Commons is a nonprofit in Morganton, NC creating an ecosystem focused on rooting local wealth and ownership. TIC is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

Primary Function:

The Career Support Specialist delivers workforce programs that help young adults explore career paths, build job skills, and connect with employment opportunities. This role blends program facilitation, outreach, and participant support in collaboration with local schools and community partners.

Essential Functions:

Program Implementation - 45%

Lead one or more Workforce Development programs from planning through implementation and analysis. Design lesson plans, lead discussions and activities, and foster inclusive participation in engaging learning experiences for youth and young adults using a variety of tools. Ensure programmatic deliverables are accomplished within deadlines, budget, and meet participant satisfaction goals. Build trust-based relationships with participants by learning their stories, goals, and barriers. Assist program participants in developing and navigating personalized career plans. Assist program participants in creating or strengthening resumes and cover letters. Stay informed about local resources and opportunities with employers and community partners. Collaborate with co-workers and partners to strengthen existing programs and create new opportunities as needs are identified. Coordinate logistics for the Workforce Development team, including but not limited to: scheduling meetings and events, venue selection, coordination of catering, supplies, equipment, and event setup and cleanup.

Relationship Management and Outreach - 35%

Present programmatic and organizational mission and goals to diverse audiences including community and financial partners, Educational institutions, small and medium-sized businesses leaders, and potential program participants. Recruit participants through creative outreach strategies including social media, email and text campaigns, and in-person events. Capture compelling stories, quotes, and visuals to highlight program impact. Collaborate with the Workforce Development team to manage and grow engagement across platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Discord, EZTexting, and Constant Contact. Collaborate with the Workforce Development team to create high-quality content using tools like Canva and basic photo/video editing software.

Data Entry and Reporting - 20%

Maintain accurate tracking of participant data, including, but not limited to: program attendance, progress in development plans, referrals, and supports provided. Ensure data confidentiality and integrity across platforms. Generate reports for internal and external stakeholders as needed. Analyze data to identify trends, inform storytelling, and support continuous improvement.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills and Experience:

Associate's degree and/or 5-8 years of work experience in Education, Workforce Development, Social Work, Economic Development, Nonprofit, or a related field. Must have a valid Driver's License and pass a background check. Strong organizational and problem solving skills with the ability to adapt to changing environments and overcome obstacles. Outstanding verbal and written English language communication skills Strong public speaking skills. Experience in, knowledge of, or ability to learn various social media channels and how to manage them. Experience in or knowledge of various communication and design tools such as Canva and Google Workspace.

Physical Demands and Work Environment:

Ability to occasionally lift 15 lbs-50 lbs Ability to remain in a stationary position with computer work Must be able to move about various office environments to access office machinery, products, and to communicate with staff Ability to observe details, recognize risk, recommend, and implement changes if needed Ability to commute regularly to local schools, community partners, and travel long distances including occasional overnight stays Must be able to reach/access products on high shelves
Pay is $25-$28.00 per hour for 40 hours per week, commensurate with experience. To apply, send an email with a current resume and cover letter to with the subject line "Career Support Specialist" or apply directly on Indeed.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $25.00 - $28.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Parental leave Professional development assistance Relocation assistance Tuition reimbursement Vision insurance
Work Location: In person