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Manager, Employment Training Program (Distribution Center Industry)

Aspire of Illinois, Chicago, IL, United States


Empower potential. Build pathways. Drive real employment outcomes.

At

Aspire , we believe meaningful employment changes lives. As our

Manager, Employment Training Program (ETP) , you’ll lead a hands‑on,

distribution center-focused

training program that prepares individuals with disabilities for

competitive, integrated employment.

You’ll bring distribution, logistics, or warehouse operations expertise along with workforce development experience

to deliver curriculum and real‑world training in areas like inventory management, order picking and packing, workplace safety, equipment handling, teamwork and time management. Partnering across teams you'll help connect participants to roles such as

warehouse associate, picker/packer, shipping and receiving, and inventory support , while advancing individualized career goals.

This is more than a management role—it’s a chance to

lead with purpose, build industry relevant skills, and drive measurable employment impact every day.

What You’ll Do
Lead Program Operations & Performance

Oversee daily operations of Aspire’s Employment Training Program, ensuring

high-quality, consistent service delivery

Implement and manage

curriculum-based training , including classroom instruction and work-based learning

Track and improve

participant progress, job readiness, and skill attainment

Guide participants through their journey—providing hands‑on coaching and support where it matters most

Ensure effective staffing and a responsive, participant‑centered environment

Build & Inspire a High-Performing Team

Recruit, coach, and develop a team supporting training, internships, and employment placement

Create clear, actionable pathways from

training to competitive employment

Foster a culture of

accountability, collaboration, and growth

Monitor key outcomes like

job placement, retention, and satisfaction , and use data to drive results

Champion Participant Success & Program Quality

Serve as a key liaison between participants, families, staff, and community partners

Ensure services are

person‑centered, coordinated, and outcomes‑driven

Maintain compliance with regulatory and accreditation standards

Lead quality improvement efforts—enhancing curriculum, processes, and participant experience

Collaborate Across the Organization

Partner with Program Leadership, Growth Initiatives, and Admissions to

build strong program cohorts

Represent the program internally and externally to strengthen

community connections and opportunities

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Education, Business, or related field

Minimum 2 years of experience in

employment services, training programs, or disability services

Minimum 2 years of

team leadership or supervisory experience

Experience delivering or managing

curriculum‑based training programs

Industry experience in

Distribution, Logistics, Warehouse Operations,

or similar environments

Strong ability to build partnerships and engage stakeholders

Data‑driven mindset with experience tracking and improving outcomes

Valid driver’s license (Illinois) and good driving record + willingness to obtain CPR/First Aid certifications

Bonus Points For:

Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) licensure

Experience with workforce development systems

Background in quality improvement and performance metrics

Who You Are

A

motivational leader

who brings out the best in others

A

relationship builder

who connects easily across teams and communities

A

strategic thinker

who uses data to drive decisions

Highly organized, adaptable, and energized by a fast‑paced environment

Passionate about

including and empowering people of all abilities

Why Aspire?

Make a

direct, visible impact

on people’s lives every day

Lead a program that blends

innovation, hands‑on learning, and real employment outcomes

Be part of a

mission‑driven organization

that values growth, collaboration, and purpose

Help individuals achieve

independence, confidence, and meaningful careers

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