How to Become a Job Corps Manager

Job Corps offers both vocational training and education programs.

Job Corps is a popular job training program that offers career training in over 100 areas to youth who need assistance completing their education. There are 124 Job Corps locations in the United States and Puerto Rico. Chances are, there's a Job Corps near you. If you enjoy working with at-risk youth, you may find a career at Job Corps is fulfilling. To become a manager, you'll need a combination of experience, education and skills that fit the position.

Instructions

1. Enroll in a program to earn an advanced degree or certification in the area in which you want to be a manager. For example, a counseling manager will be a licensed counselor, which requires a master's level degree. The head of the educational program will likely hold a master's degree in education, and a manager in food services is likely to be a registered dietician.

2. Start at an entry-level position until you gain the experience in the area in which you want to be a manager. Job Corps management positions typically require that candidates demonstrate years of successful experience doing the type of work that they will be supervising.

3. Work at Job Corps. Do the job that you want to supervise and work your way up. Job Corps often promotes from within, so you will likely have a better chance of obtaining a managerial position this way.

4. Compile a resume that highlights your relevant education and experience and apply for management positions when they become available. If you don't mind relocating, maximize your chance of becoming a Job Corps Manager by searching for jobs at all 124 job training centers.

5. Apply repeatedly if you don't get the management position you want the first time. Eventually, a position might become available that is right for you.

Tips & Warnings

• Do volunteer work with at-risk teenagers, which is the population that Job Corps serves. Adding this experience to your resume can help you to get serious consideration for employment at Job Corps.

• There is no guarantee that you will obtain a managerial position at Job Corps even if you meet the educational requirement and have related experience. There are often many people competing for managerial positions, and the Job Corps in your area may have only one managerial position in your area of expertise. You must be willing to relocate if you want a job with a national organization.

References

• Job Corps: Frequently Asked Questions

Resources

• Job Corps: Job Search