Career Pathway Lead: Culinary and Hospitality

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Under the direct supervision of the Programs & Partnerships Manager, the Career Pathways Lead supports individuals in achieving long-term employment and career advancement. This role collaborates with employers, training providers, and internal teams to develop sector-based pathways aligned with labor market demand and participant needs.

The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, highly organized, and committed to providing exceptional service to program participants. They bring a mix of career development expertise, partnership building, and program management experience to ensure participants thrive in their career journeys.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of career pathway strategies, focusing on job and upskilling opportunities in the Culinary and Hospitality sectors.
• Design and manage sector-based cohorts, training pipelines, and work-based learning opportunities.
• Cultivate and maintain partnerships with employers, educational institutions, training providers, and community stakeholders.
• Provide individualized career coaching and job readiness support, including resume review, interview preparation, and job search strategies.
• Monitor participant progress, employment outcomes, and retention; use data to inform continuous improvement.
• Coordinate with internal staff and external partners to align wraparound services addressing employment barriers.
• Design and facilitate career development workshops, classes, and informational sessions on industry trends.
• Stay informed on labor market trends and adjust programming accordingly.
• Follow up with applicants to resolve incomplete or pending applications.
• Prepare reports and summaries on enrollment trends, eligibility issues, and program reach.
• Assist with audits and compliance reviews by maintaining accurate documentation.
• Provide supportive services (e.g., tools, uniforms, transportation assistance) as available.
• Support job search and application processes for trainees and community clients, including resume development and interview preparation.
• Maintain electronic participant files and case notes in the Care4 case management system.
• Conduct follow-ups on participants’ employment status via phone, email, or employer contact.

Basic Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required; AA/BA preferred.
• Minimum 2 years of experience in workforce development.
• At least 1 year of experience working with vulnerable populations.
• Strong collaboration skills; adaptable and optimistic in ambiguous situations.
• Excellent time management and organizational skills under pressure.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and client management software.
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret business and grant documentation.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Commitment to the mission and vision of Homeboy Industries, with a focus on achieving quality jobs for all trainees.

Physical Demands

• Regularly required to stand, talk, and hear.
• Frequently required to sit, walk, use hands, and reach with arms.
• Must regularly lift/move up to 10 lbs and occasionally up to 25 lbs.
• Specific vision abilities include close, distance, color, peripheral vision, depth perception, and focus adjustment.

Work Environment

• The noise level is typically moderate.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.