Program Success Coach

Palmer Scholars; Lakewood (WA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Palmer Scholars seeks a Program Success Coach to support the Palmer Pathways program in Washington. You will provide outreach, guide applicants through screening, and offer wraparound support to help Scholars complete postsecondary programs and attain family-wage employment.

You will manage data, coordinate orientations, and collaborate with partners. Prior experience with adult education and workforce development is valued; strong organizational and communication skills are essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in relevant field; case management experience preferred.
• Experience with young adults in adult education, apprenticeships, career planning, or postsecondary education.
• Strong organizational, writing, verbal, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced organization, independently and as part of a team.
• Commitment to working with diverse populations.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Publisher, Excel).
• Satisfactory background check.
• Self-initiative and motivation to understand program requirements and address gaps.

Responsibilities

• Foster an inclusive, respectful, and collaborative work environment.
• Track and report Scholar data in WAWorks and agency platforms.
• Plan and facilitate orientations and information sessions (evenings/weekends).
• Provide high-quality customer service to Scholars, employers, and partners.
• Advise Scholars on pathways, including apprenticeship and degree options; assist with planning and funding.
• Develop and update ISS plans, case notes, and participant documentation with trauma-informed approach.
• Build relationships with postsecondary institutions, employers, and community organizations.
• Lead field placement days and coordinate travel for Scholars.

Skills

Organizational skills

Written and verbal communication

Interpersonal skills

Team collaboration

Microsoft Office

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Human Services, Psychology, Counseling, Education, or related field

Equivalent experience in case management or group facilitation

Job description

Program Success Coach

POSITION SUMMARY

The Program Success Coach supports Palmer Scholars’ Palmer Pathways program by conducting outreach and recruitment, guiding applicants through screening, providing individualized wraparound support, and maintaining accurate documentation. The role functions as a mentor, career coach, and case manager, ensuring Scholars have the resources and connections needed to complete a postsecondary program (including apprenticeship) and secure family‑wage employment.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

General Responsibilities

• Foster a positive, inclusive, and collaborative work environment grounded in respect, professionalism, integrity, and compassion.

Scholar Support

• Track and report Scholar data in WAWorks and other agency platforms for accurate program and case‑management reporting.
• Plan and facilitate orientations and information sessions throughout Pierce County, including evenings and weekends.
• Deliver high‑quality customer service to Scholars, employers, apprenticeship partners, and community organizations.
• Review operational systems to ensure clear workflows and timely services.
• Provide navigation and classroom support during Pathways sessions, including attendance, engagement, and guest trainer coordination.
• Lead field placement days, including transporting Scholars in the organization van.
• Provide backup support for the Pre‑Apprenticeship program.
• Advise Scholars on academic and career pathways, including apprenticeship, certification, and degree options; assist with career planning, funding strategies, enrollment, and goal setting.
• Develop and update Individualized Service Strategy (ISS) plans, case notes, and participant documentation using a trauma‑informed approach.
• Build and maintain relationships with postsecondary institutions, union partners, employers, and community organizations.
• Lead weekly navigation sessions with Scholars individually and in small groups.
• Participate in committees, taskforces, outreach, and community events to promote Palmer Pathways.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Administrative

• Review contracts to ensure understanding of deliverables and compliance requirements.
• Maintain accurate documentation of services, outcomes, employment, education, and participant progress while ensuring confidentiality.
• Assist with coordination of Scholar and volunteer events.
• Participate in cross‑training opportunities.
• Assist with preparation of non‑financial reports for the Board of Directors or other entities.
• Ensure timely submission of timesheets, travel requests, reimbursements, and other HR documentation.
• Provide programmatic, event, and office support.
• Attend Board or Advisory Board meetings as needed.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Human Services, Psychology, Counseling, Education, or related field; or equivalent experience in case management or group facilitation.
• Experience working with young adults in adult education, apprenticeships, career planning, job‑readiness support, postsecondary education, social/human services, or nonprofit settings.
• Strong organizational, writing, verbal, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast‑paced organization, independently and as part of a team.
• Demonstrated commitment to working with diverse populations.
• High proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Publisher, Excel).
• Satisfactory background check.
• Self‑initiative and motivation to understand program requirements and address gaps.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Two years of experience with public speaking, presenting, or training facilitation.
• Two years of experience coordinating services for young adults.
• Two years of experience in client recruitment, enrollment, career assessment, support services, occupational training, job placement, records maintenance, and outcomes reporting.
• Knowledge of the local labor market and target populations.
• Knowledge of career assessment methods.
• Understanding of postsecondary pathways, including apprenticeship.
• Knowledge of career and workforce development programs and services.
• Experience with Adult Basic Education, ESL, Apprenticeship Preparation, or WorkSource programs.
• Experience advising adult learners with employers, training providers, educational institutions, and community organizations.
• Experience in student services or human services.
• Experience in scholarship foundations, pre‑apprenticeship, or apprenticeship settings.
• Familiarity with human services management software.
• Familiarity with WIOA young adult program requirements.
• Knowledge of alignment between assessments and program competencies.
• Experience cultivating relationships with diverse stakeholder groups.
• Experience in counseling or social services.

Program Success Coach 9.2.26.docx