Career Connection Coordinator

Impact

The Career Connection Coordinator provides logistical and relationship management support for regional career exploration expos. This position plays a key role in recruiting and supporting exhibitors, volunteers, and educational partners while ensuring events run smoothly from planning through execution.
This is a part-time position averaging 25 hours per week. A significant portion of the position involves persistent communication, outreach, customer service, and in-person event support.

Primary Responsibilities:

Event Coordination

• Assist with planning and execution of career expos and student career awareness events, ranging in size from 250-4,000 students in various locations throughout Central Illinois
• Coordinate exhibitor registration, event logistics, scheduling, and communications
• Support event setup, breakdown, and on-site operations
• Track deadlines, deliverables, and event timelines
• Troubleshoot challenges and identify solutions in real time during events with the support of the Community & Workforce Development Director and Program Director
• Support other JA programs and events as needed or directed

Relationship Management

• Serve as a point of contact for sponsors, employers, volunteers, schools, and community partners
• Build and maintain positive relationships with business and education partners
• Support sponsor fulfillment and ensure a high-quality experience for participating organizations
• Communicate clearly and professionally with diverse stakeholders

Volunteer & Educator Support

• Coordinate volunteer recruitment, scheduling, training, and event-day support
• Work with educators and school districts to facilitate student participation
• Assist in developing event materials and communications for schools and volunteers
• Assist in implementation of career exploration curriculum alongside expos

Administrative Support

• Maintain accurate records, participant databases, and event documentation
• Track registrations, attendance, and event metrics
• Assist with post-event evaluations and reporting

Qualifications (required)

• 1-3 years of experience in education, hospitality, or administrative support
• Strong project management and organizational skills
• Excellent communication and relationship-building abilities
• Ability to manage multiple events and deadlines simultaneously
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and event management tools/CRM systems
• Availability for occasional evening events

Work Environment & Physical Demands:

• Hybrid schedule available
• Must be able to travel throughout Central Illinois (valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required)
• Approximately 25 hours per week during business hours of M-F 8am-5pm, occassional evening or weekend work
• Ability to stand/walk for extended periods, lift up to 30 lbs

Qualifications (desired)

• Associates or Bachelor’s degree in Education, Communications, Marketing, or related area
• Experience in workforce development
• Knowledge of the Central Illinois business and philanthropic community
• Experience working with volunteers and boards

Pay: $18.61 - $21.50 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Paid time off

Work Location: In person