TANF Education Navigator (Grant Funded)

The TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) Education Navigator is responsible for providing post-secondary short-term education opportunities to TANF WORK program clients and Work Ready Oklahoma (WRO) participants. The Education Navigator will focus on connecting participants to workforce-focused short-term education offerings, including micro-credentials, certificate programs, and accelerated degree pathways. The primary objective is to equip participants with the skills and credentials needed for gainful employment. In addition, the role will explore workforce-focused associate degrees that can be completed within 12 months. The TANF Education Navigator will act as a guide, ensuring participants have the resources and support needed to access and complete educational opportunities that align with in-demand workforce needs.

Oversee data performance measures and provide monthly data to OSRHE through the Oklahoma Secure Access File Exchange (OSAFE) to include but not limited to the number of participants, attendance hours, program of study, work-based learning completion rates, certifications obtained, positive placement, post-secondary enrollment, follow-up on data employment (6 months, 1 year) and rate of hourly pay/benefits.

Identify business/industry partners and relevant occupations for post credential employment opportunities.

Collaborate with Family Coach and WRO to provide direct services such as mentoring, coaching, advising, and identification of institutional resources.

Explain and explore micro-credential and educational pathways available in the participant's desired geographical areas of employment.

Ensure that program participants are aware of all applicable scholarships and financial assistance available at the selected institution and assist with annual FAFSA preparation.

Be present during initial staffing with participants and Family Coach to share educational options and Work Ready Oklahoma (WRO) options to connect participants to higher education opportunities.

Provide information and assistance to access other services within their respective communities.

Identify local businesses providing Employer Tuition Assistance incentives to share with participants.

Bachelor's degree in social work, Psychology, Counseling, or other related fields of study. Degree requirement may be substituted with relevant and equivalent work experience.

Three years of Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Office.

Commitment to student advocacy while working in multiple settings.

Experience managing community and/or school-based programs focused on successful student outcomes.

Flexibility and ability to exercise professional judgment and leadership, including the ability to problem solve and work independently.

Ability to stand and/or sit for a minimum of 7 hours a day.

Ability to work in an office environment with some travel.

Master's degree social work, Psychology, Counseling, or other related fields of study. Degree requirement may be substituted with relevant and equivalent work experience.

Social work certificates or licensure.

Three years experience in a family, school, or community, or social work environment.

One year experience or knowledge of coordinating student services and/or basic needs programs preferred.

One year experience documenting via a proactive case management approach individual student need with designated data system(s).

Ability to Lift up to 15 pounds.