Guardian Scholars Coordinator II

Promises2Kids; San Diego (CA); Hybrid; USD 37,195 - 45,460; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Up to 100% employer-paid health, dental, life, and disability insurance

Voluntary 401(k) with up to 4% employer match

15 days paid time off (PTO) yearly

Job summary

A non-profit organization based in San Diego is seeking a Guardian Scholars Coordinator II to manage a caseload of high-need foster youth. The role requires strong communication skills, knowledge of trauma-informed care, and experience with at-risk populations. Responsibilities include case management and program administrative tasks to support youth in their academic and personal goals. Competitive benefits and a flexible work environment are offered.

Qualifications

• Lived experience in the foster care system preferred.
• 2-4 years in program management and experience with at-risk populations.
• Strong professional writing and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Support a caseload of 30-40 high-need youth.
• Conduct monthly in-person meetings with youth.
• Assist in grant writing and fundraising.

Skills

Creative problem solving

Emotional intelligence

Public speaking

Time management

Interpersonal skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, or related field

Tools

Salesforce

MS Office

Job description

Overview

POSITION TITLE: Guardian Scholars Coordinator II

COMPENSATION: $27-$33/hr DOE

Status: Full Time; Non-Exempt

Reports to: Guardian Scholar Supervisor

Base pay range: $27.00/hr - $33.00/hr

Direct message the job poster from Promises2Kids

About Promises2Kids

Promises2Kids is dedicated to its mission of creating a brighter future for foster children in San Diego. Programs include Camp Connect, Guardian Scholars, Foster Funds, and the A.B. and Jessie Polinsky Children’s Center. For more information, visit Promises2Kids.org.

Position Summary

Under the direction of the Guardian Scholars Supervisor, the Coordinator II will manage a caseload of approximately 30-40 high-need former foster youth participating in the Guardian Scholars program. Responsibilities include whole-person case management (monitoring participation, referrals, budgeting, study habits education, ensuring basic needs are met, and regular contact) and program administrative tasks (check requests, database maintenance, event planning).

Guardian Scholars aims to help foster youth graduate high school, enroll in college or training, and pursue career paths. The program provides monthly stipends, mentoring, and individualized support to increase academic success, graduation, employment, and community contribution.

The role follows an Enhanced Care Management Model (ECM) and requires knowledge of trauma-informed care. The position requires creative problem solving, adaptability, emotional intelligence, and at least 2 years' experience working with at-risk populations.

Responsibilities

• Support a caseload of 30-40 high-need youth, including daily outreach in the community.
• Serve as a resource to Coordinator I and other team members.
• Facilitate trainings and discussions in team meetings.
• Plan, coordinate, and attend events to engage youth; lead trainings and workshops as needed.
• Implement evaluation tools to collect and analyze program outcomes.
• Maintain Salesforce with up-to-date files, notes, and documentation; daily updates required.
• Conduct monthly in-person meetings with youth; additional check-ins via phone, text, or email.
• Address youth issues such as career navigation, housing, mental health, and academics.
• Support program components (tours, leadership networks, mentoring, internships, events, and resource fairs).
• Assist in grant writing and fundraising related to Guardian Scholars.
• Stay current on laws and resources related to educating foster youth; make referrals as needed.
• Assist with youth recruitment and support volunteer mentors.
• Represent Promises2Kids professionally and align with the organization’s mission.
• Evenings and weekend hours are required to meet participant needs.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Lived experience in the foster care system preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, or related field preferred.
• 2-4 years in program management and experience with at-risk populations.
• Public speaking and presentation skills; proficiency with MS Office.
• Strong professional writing and communication skills; good problem solving and time management.
• Excellent interpersonal skills; ability to represent Promises2Kids positively with staff, visitors, donors, and the community.
• Ability to work independently, take initiative, and meet deadlines; able to work under pressure.
• Team-oriented with confidentiality and tact; detail-oriented and able to focus on goals.
• Reliable transportation, valid driver’s license, vehicle insurance, and ability to pass child abuse clearance, fingerprinting, and background checks.

Physical Requirements

• Office environment with standard equipment; occasional lifting up to 50 lbs for events or office needs.
• Frequent sitting or standing; potential for long walking distances and variable weather during events.
• Effective in-person, phone, and email communication; must have visual and auditory acuity.
• Occasional driving; ability to sit for prolonged periods while driving.
• Reasonable accommodations available to enable essential functions.

Benefits

• Up to 100% employer-paid health, dental, life, and disability insurance
• Voluntary 401(k) with up to 4% employer match annually
• Voluntary Flexible Spending Account
• 10 paid holidays plus a floating holiday during birthday month
• 15 days paid time off (PTO) yearly
• Flexible work environment with some remote work options
• Continuing education opportunities

Promises2Kids is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.