Youth Retention Specialist

Equus Open · verified Sep 13, 2026

On-site New Orleans Full-time Mid-level Retention Marketing

Mid-level Retention Marketing role at Equus. New Orleans · full-time.

Role brief

Growth Roles summary, based on the employer's posting.

What you'll do

You'll coach assigned youth, track attendance and progress, and step in when participants show signs of leaving
You'll assess barriers, build service plans, and connect participants with transportation, childcare, housing, and other support
You'll guide education and career goals, credential progress, and transitions into work, further study, military service, or training
You'll keep case records current, protect confidential information, report outcomes, and work with partners and employers

What you bring

You bring at least two years supporting youth or young adults through workforce, education, social service, or case management programs
A bachelor's degree in a related field such as social work, human services, counseling, education, or psychology is preferred
You can also qualify through an equivalent combination of education and experience
You need strong youth engagement, coaching, communication, organization, conflict resolution, and problem-solving skills
You're comfortable using Microsoft Office and case management or database systems while protecting sensitive information

Who this fits

This role suits someone who can build trusting relationships with diverse youth, coach through barriers, and coordinate practical support. You'll work onsite in New Orleans in a full-time position. The listing does not state travel, visa, or management requirements.

From the employer

We help job seekers and career changers prepare for and advance in careers with a focus on sustainable, high-growth, high-demand industries. Our committed and well-trained workforce professionals deliver comprehensive workforce solutions at integrated career centers, sector-focused centers and community, and partner sites.

Participant Engagement & Retention

Develop and maintain supportive relationships with assigned youth participants.
Monitor participant attendance, engagement, and progress toward program goals.
Conduct regular one-on-one coaching sessions with participants.
Identify individuals at risk of dropping out and implement intervention plans.
Develop retention strategies that promote participant success and program completion.
Maintain regular communication with participants through phone calls, text messages, email, and in-person meetings.

Case Management

Assess participant needs and barriers to employment, education, and training.
Create and monitor Individual Service Strategies (ISS) or Individual Development Plans (IDP).
Coordinate referrals to supportive services including:
- Transportation assistance
- Childcare resources
- Housing assistance
- Mental health services
- Educational support
- Financial literacy resources
Document participant progress and services provided in required case management systems.

Career and Academic Support

Assist participants in establishing educational and career goals.
Support attainment of credentials, certifications, diplomas, or GEDs.
Collaborate with instructors, counselors, and workforce partners to address participant concerns.
Encourage participation in career development activities, workshops, and work-based learning experiences.
Assist participants in transitioning to employment, post-secondary education, military service, or advanced training.

Barrier Resolution

Identify attendance, behavioral, academic, and personal issues impacting retention.
Conduct intervention meetings with participants and stakeholders as needed.
Develop action plans to address performance concerns.
Provide crisis intervention and resource navigation when appropriate.
Advocate on behalf of participants to secure needed services and support.

Program Compliance & Documentation

Maintain accurate, timely, and complete participant records.
Ensure compliance with federal, state, local, and organizational requirements.
Track retention metrics, outcomes, and participant milestones.
Prepare reports and case notes in accordance with organizational policies and funding requirements.
Protect participant confidentiality and sensitive information.

Community & Employer Partnerships

Collaborate with community organizations and service providers.
Participate in outreach and engagement activities.
Support participants during internships, work experiences, apprenticeships, and employment placements.
Maintain relationships with employers to support participant success and retention.

Education

Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Human Services, Counseling, Education, Workforce Development, Psychology, or a related field preferred.
Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

Experience

2+ years of experience working with youth, young adults, workforce development programs, education, social services, or case management.
Experience supporting individuals facing barriers to education or employment preferred.
Knowledge of workforce development programs, career pathways, and community resources is highly desirable.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Strong relationship-building and youth engagement skills.
Ability to motivate and coach diverse populations.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Strong organizational and time-management abilities.
Conflict resolution and problem-solving skills.
Knowledge of trauma-informed care principles and positive youth development practices.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and case management/database systems.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and manage sensitive information.

Equus Workforce Solutions is a leading provider of workforce development services in North America. With a dedicated and passionate team, Equus puts the industry’s best practices to work by focusing on the development, design, and delivery of demand-driven workforce solutions.

When you join Equus, you can expect extensive learning opportunities and networking programs. But most of all you can expect to make a lasting impact on the lives of others.

At Equus we are strengthened by diversity. We are committed to providing a work environment in which everyone is included, treated fairly and with respect. Equus Workforce Solutions is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, gender, age, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, ancestry, religion, national origin, veteran status, physical or mental disability, or reprisal or any other characteristic protected under state, federal, or local law.