Position Description
STEM Program Advocate
ROLE SUMMARY
Under the direction of the Director of Youth Development, the STEM program advocate is primarily responsible for providing direct service of STEM education to youth aged 13-18. In this role, the SPA will plan, develop innovative STEM programming, which includes group programming, one – on- one intervention and SEL development.
Reports to:Vice President of Youth & Family Services
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Responsible for the planning and implementation of hands-on, project-based after-school and out-of-school STEM learning that includes instruction, evaluation, STEM camp, field trips, college tours, community service events or service learning projects and workshops.
- Responsible for the implementation and facilitation of education and youth development curriculum specifically related to middle school and high school that is not limited to college preparation, financial literacy, science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), career exploration and health and wellness.
- Plan, lead, and participate in meaningful yearly STEM camp, assist with setting camp goals and objectives, and ensure a positive camping experience for each youth.
- Maintain a minimum caseload of 40 youth participants.
- Actively facilitate the Case Management Process. This includes completing all necessary client intake documents, complete programmatic assessments (three times a year); develop and revise service plans every 90 days with each participant assigned.
- Facilitate group sessions, including, but not limited to: STEM, Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Groups, Academic Support/Tutoring Groups, and Recreational Sessions as it is outlined in the program curriculum.
- Conduct one-on-one mentoring to participants in an effort to assist them in achieving goals outlined in the Service Plan
- Use knowledge of community resources to help participants achieved the goals outlined in their Service Plans.
- Maintain case notes, participant files and ensure that all reporting function is adhered to as it is outlined by the funder and program for every client interaction.
- Work collaboratively with community partners and other CUL Departments/Staff in linking clients with needed services.
- Performs other duties/special projects as assigned.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- None
JOB REQUIREMENTS:
This position requires the individual to have an understanding of the characteristics, problems, needs and interests of at risk youth; a thorough knowledge and be fluent in current technology and unafraid of experimenting with new technology, well-organized, detail-oriented, and able to work on multiple projects at the same time; as well as develop out of-school time digital learning and maker experiences; understanding of good knowledge of community resources and facilities available to youth; a solid understanding of youth programming; a high level of integrity, ability to establish trust and maintain support with youth; ability to plan, organize, implement, coordinate and evaluate a client issues and any program needs of youth; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with health professionals and community organizations or agencies; ability to make accurate and objective observations; ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; ability to work independently; ability to use computer applications such as spreadsheets, word processing, calendar, e-mail and database software; one must possess initiative; tact and courtesy; physical condition commensurate with the duties of the position. This individual must understand, maintain, and uphold the mission and vision of the Chicago Urban League.
Must possess a valid driver’s license and motor vehicle insurance to operate a motor vehicle in the State of Illinois. Must pass a criminal background check.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
- Bachelor’s Degree required
- Master’s in related field strongly preferred
- 3+years of STEM programming or experience
- 5+ years of child welfare experience
- Strong computer skills are required especially with case management data systems
- Must be professional, mature and willing to be a role model
