Skills Development & Independence Coach

Company: Mitchell College
Location: New London
Posted on: April 2, 2026

Job Description:

Mitchell College is conducting a search for a Skills Development & Independence Coach who will play a vital role in supporting neurodivergent young adults in the STAIRs Program as they move toward independence, personal skill development, and growth. This position blends teaching, individualized coaching, community partnership development, and program growth into a dynamic, learner-centered role. This position helps partners build skills, confidence, relationships, and self-direction, while also helping STAIRs grow its impact, partnerships, and long-term sustainability. As the program expands, so does the scope and leadership opportunity of this position. This is a part-time ( (28 hrs./wk.), full year position. Key Responsibilities: Teaching & Learning Deliver approved curriculum through classes, workshops, and applied learning experiences Teach topics such as life skills (housekeeping, personal budgeting, transportation, community connections, etc.) and promote self-advocacy, accountability, communication, pride, confidence, and personal presentation Support skill assessment, progress tracking, and successful completion of program benchmarks Individual & Small-Group Coaching Provide one-on-one and small-group coaching tailored to each Partner’s strengths, needs, and goals Support and help develop organization systems for accountability and independence readiness Facilitate personal exploration, site visits, and pathway discovery aligned with Partner interests Reinforce confidence, independence, and sustainable success beyond the program and job placement Community Partnerships & Recruitment Build and maintain relationships with local organization and partners to provide unique learning experiences for Partners Expand service and engagement opportunities Assist with recruitment, enrollment, and community outreach initiatives Program Growth & Supervision Collaborate with program leadership on documentation, program design, and continuous improvement Supervise and mentor PT Partner Interns, inter-organizational interns, and/or Federal Work Study students as assigned Support program visibility, including communications and social media presence Qualifications & Attributes Experience in coaching, education, skill development, or related fields Demonstrated ability to support neurodivergent individuals with dignity, flexibility, and strengths-based practices Strong communication, organizational, and relationship-building skills Comfort teaching, coaching, and representing the program in community settings Alignment with STAIRs values of inclusion, growth, accountability, and meaningful work Required/Preferred Education and Experience: A relevant masters degree in Social Work, Counseling, Student Affairs, or Higher Education is required. Other combinations of education, experience and training may be considered at the discretion of the College. Knowledge of and experience in working with students who have learning differences and/or are on the spectrum is desired. Previous successful experiences with career readiness instruction and/or coaching An ability to meet participants where they are at and partner with them on the development of a success and transition plan. Ability to provide leadership and healthy role modeling to participants; Ability to maintain appropriate boundaries in the workplace and to work professionally (ethically) especially with regard to matters of confidentiality. The position requires excellent written and verbal communication, organization, and problem solving skills, especially during high stress situations. Individuals who are able to work in a continuously changing organization and are highly motivated are best suited for this position. Enthusiasm, creativity and flexibility required. Resume and cover letter are required for full consideration. Mitchell College is an Affirmative Action-Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, disability and genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization or other non-merit factors.

Keywords: Mitchell College, New England , Skills Development & Independence Coach, Education / Teaching , New London, Northeast