The United Planning Organization (UPO) is the designated Community Action Agency for Washington, District of Columbia, and has served the residents of the District since 1962. Our Vision for the future is “UPO’s Washington: A city of thriving communities and self-sufficient residents”; our Mission is “Uniting People with Opportunities.”

UPO is committed to attracting and retaining outstanding and diverse staff who will enhance our engagement and service in our communities.

UPO Workforce Institute (WFI) is seeking an energetic and experienced individual to join our dynamic team. The ideal candidate must be a self-starter able to work in a fast paced, ever changing work environment, a team player and able to work independently with minimal supervision. This future employee will be expected to deliver a high level of customer support and service to both internal and external WFI customers. The final candidate will need to have the right complement of skills and personality.

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply for this position or any other position currently advertised on our website. Please visit us at www.upo.org to view all of our vacancies and to learn more about our company and services.

POSITION: Job Readiness Coach Assistant

OFFICE/DIVISION: Workforce Institute Division

BULLETIN No: 03112026

SALARY RANGE: $55,000-$60,000 (Commensurate with experience)

OPENING DATE: November 6, 2026

CLOSING DATE: Open until filled.

FIRST SOURCE: N/A

MAJOR DUTIES:

Responsible for assisting the Job Readiness Coach in preparing customers for training and employment success

BRIEF DESCRIPTION:

Collaborate with the Job Readiness Coach to assess each customer’s preparedness for occupational training and/or employment, while identifying additional services and resources needed to support successful participation and placement. Engage customers in meaningful conversations to understand their career interests, goals, and aspirations, and assist in developing individualized action plans to achieve those objectives. Provide guidance and support to help customers identify, address, and overcome personal and employment-related barriers while establishing sustainable personal, educational, and career goals. Develop, edit, and proofread professional employment documents using approved templates, including resumes, cover letters, professional reference sheets, and post-interview thank-you letters. Assist customers with completing and submitting online employment applications, navigating job search platforms, and accessing available employment opportunities. Perform accurate and timely data entry, documentation, and updates within UPO’s designated data management system to ensure customer records, services, and outcomes are properly maintained.

CORE COMPETENCIES:

Ability to assess customer employment readiness, identify career interests, and develop individualized employment and training plans,
Demonstrated ability to establish rapport, build trust, and maintain positive relationships with diverse populations.
Proficiency in resume development, cover letter preparation, interview coaching, job search strategies, and employment application assistance
Ability to identify employment and personal barriers and connect customers with appropriate supportive services and community resources
Strong verbal and written communication skills, active listening, conflict resolution, and the ability to communicate effectively with customers, employers, and community partners

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

High school diploma or associates degree and three years of experience in job readiness or workforce development. Excellent skills in resume creation, interviewing techniques and customer service. Ability to effectively use Microsoft Office programs, an electronic time keeping program and data management systems. Possess effective organizational and professional communication skills, both written and verbal. Proven ability to work in a team environment.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor’s degree in social studies or related fields or at least five Knowledge of District non-profit community. Ability to communicate effectively in writing and orally. Ability to inspire, and years of experience in job readiness or workforce development. Computer literacy including MS Office and data management systems.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

In the event that an offer is extended, the candidate will be required to successfully complete a criminal background check and/or FBI fingerprinting, and pre-employment drug screening as applicable for the position.

POSITION ELIGIBLE

FOR TELEWORK: n YES-Limited o NO

ESSENTIAL POSITION: o YES n NO

EMPLOYMENT TYPE: Full Time / Regular (37.5 Hour Workweek)

Competitive Benefits:

Health/Kaiser, 70/30 split
Dental/MetLife, all employees paid
Vision/VSP, all employees paid
401k, Safe Harbor Match-5.5% given as a benefit, will match 1% of staff contribution
Sick Leave 4.5 Hours Every Pay Period
Vacation Leave 4.5 Hours Every Pay Period
2 Personal Days
Paid Holidays

This position IS in the collective bargaining unit of the CWA Union.

To be considered for this position:

Submit your cover letter and resume to the Career Center Online.

UPO is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Learn more about this Employer on their Career Site