TITLE: CTE Co-Op Program Instructor - PATHS
POSITION OVERVIEW:
The CTE Co-Op Program Instructor bridges the gap between classroom instruction and real-world careers. In this role, you will build and sustain a network of employer partnerships, guide students from interest to placement, and ensure every work-based learning experience�Co-op, internship, job shadow, apprenticeship, or ELO�is meaningful, safe, and aligned with Maine DOE CTE standards. You will be a connector: connecting students to opportunity, employers to talent, and PATHS programs to the broader workforce community.
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES:
Student Placement & Support
- Coordinate and manage all Co-op and ELO placements from initial interest through program completion.
- Help students identify career goals and secure placements that align with their CTE program and interests.
- Prepare students for the workplace through instruction in employability skills, professionalism, workplace safety, and communication.
- Conduct regular site visits and maintain active communication with students, employers, instructors, and families throughout each placement.
- Support students in building r�sum�s, cover letters, interview skills, and individualized career plans.
- Maintain accurate, up-to-date student records, evaluations, training agreements, and all required documentation.
Employer & Community Partnerships
- Develop and steward relationships with local businesses, industry partners, community organizations, and workforce agencies.
- Proactively recruit new employers to expand the breadth and quality of student placement opportunities.
- Represent PATHS at community and industry events; promote work-based learning as a workforce pipeline benefit to employers.
- Coordinate employer advisory engagement and industry feedback to strengthen program relevance.
Program Coordination & Compliance
- Ensure all experiences meet Maine DOE CTE requirements and PATHS policies, including training agreements, safety documentation, and labor law compliance.
- Partner with instructors to align student placements with technical competencies and CTE learning standards.
- Maintain records tracking participation, hours, certifications, and outcomes; support state reporting and grant documentation as needed.
- Deliver pre-placement curriculum using platforms such as Google Classroom and other relevant technology tools.
Collaboration & Communication
- Work closely with PATHS instructors, counselors, administrators, ESOL staff, and sending school liaisons to support all students.
- Communicate proactively with students, families, employers, and community partners regarding expectations, progress, and outcomes.
- Participate in staff meetings, professional development, advisory committees, career fairs, and student recognition events.
CORE COMPETENCIES:
- Relationship-building: Gains the trust of students, employers, and colleagues; grows and sustains a strong partner network
- Student-centered practice: Committed to equity and inclusion; skilled at supporting students with varied backgrounds and needs
- Organization & follow-through: Manages complex logistics with accuracy; keeps records, deadlines, and stakeholders on track
- Communication: Clear and professional across audiences, from a nervous student to a CEO.
- Problem-solving: Anticipates and resolves placement challenges with creativity and good judgment
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Eligibility for or ability to obtain Maine Cooperative Education 860 certification
- Demonstrated experience in CTE, workforce development, education, counseling, or business and industry partnerships
- Knowledge of cooperative education principles, work-based learning models, labor laws, and workplace safety standards
- Strong relationship-building, organizational, and communication skills
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities across diverse student populations
- Valid driver's license and reliable transportation for regular site visits
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor's degree in education, career development, workforce development, counseling, business, or a related field
- Experience working with high school students in a CTE or school-to-career context
- Familiarity with Maine DOE reporting requirements and career readiness frameworks
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
This position operates primarily in a school and office setting, with regular travel to employer and community partner sites. Occasional evening events or meetings may be required. The role involves frequent, high-quality interaction with students, families, employers, and staff across all three PATHS partner schools.
EMPLOYMENT DETAILS:
- Schedule: School Year, Full Time (1.0 FTE)
- Assignment: Permanent
- Reports to: Director of PATHS
- Contract: Part of PEA union (see 2025-2028 CBA here)
- Salary: Based on education and experience, as outlined in CBA
- Benefits: Eligible for benefits as outlined here
ABOUT PATHS:
Portland Arts and Technology High School (PATHS) is a regional Career and Technical Education (CTE) center serving high school students from Portland and surrounding districts. PATHS prepares students for both college and careers through hands-on, industry-informed instruction in a wide range of technical programs.
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Portland Public Schools is committed to maintaining a work and learning environment free from discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, pregnancy, gender, sexual orientation, marital/civil union status, ancestry, place of birth, age, citizenship status, veteran status, political affiliation or disability, as defined and required by state and federal laws.