Director, Workforce Pathways & Economic Mobility

YSS; Iowa (LA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental & vision

Life & disability

HSA/FSA

Paid time off

Holidays

403(b) retirement

PSLF eligible

Job summary

YSS seeks a Director of Workforce & Economic Mobility to lead strategy, program development, and cross‑organization collaboration that expands youth employment opportunities and economic mobility. This role aligns workforce initiatives with mission, oversees partnerships with employers, educators, and community partners, and advances pathways from exploration to credential attainment.

The ideal candidate has senior leadership experience in workforce development, a track record of turning

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Five years of progressive leadership experience in workforce development, youth services, housing, or related fields.
• Experience developing programs, building partnerships, and turning strategies into action.
• Experience using data and outcomes to evaluate programs and guide decisions.
• Demonstrated experience addressing barriers to employment and economic mobility.

Responsibilities

• Develop and lead an organization-wide workforce and economic mobility strategy.
• Build a continuum of workforce opportunities from exploration through credential attainment.
• Integrate workforce development into existing YSS programs and service models.
• Develop innovative approaches addressing barriers to employment.
• Identify emerging workforce trends and opportunities for YSS participants.
• Develop career pathways for long-term employment, financial stability, and independence.
• Connect participants to internships, apprenticeships, and work-based learning.
• Ensure initiatives are trauma-informed, accessible, and responsive to needs.
• Collaborate with program leaders to identify workforce needs and gaps.
• Provide leadership, coaching, and professional development to staff.
• Supervise workforce development staff and partners.
• Create employer engagement strategies and regional partnerships.
• Represent YSS in community and regional workforce initiatives.
• Oversee lived experience pathways and peer leadership opportunities.
• Develop and track outcomes, sustainability, and funding strategies.

Skills

Strategic thinking

Relationship building

Collaboration

Communication

Innovation

Adaptability

Initiative

Equity & empathy

Education

Bachelor’s degree in related field

Master’s degree in related field

Job description

YSS seeks a Director of Workforce & Economic Mobility to lead strategy, program development, and cross‑organization collaboration that expands youth employment opportunities and economic mobility. This role aligns workforce initiatives with mission, oversees partnerships with employers, educators, and community partners, and advances pathways from exploration to credential attainment.

The ideal candidate has senior leadership experience in workforce development, a track record of turning