Digital Equity Specialist

Position Overview:
The Digital Equity Specialist will play a key role in supporting clients with literacy challenges by providing digital literacy training and tailored educational support. This role requires someone who is patient, adaptable, and skilled in teaching digital skills to individuals at a 5th-grade reading level or below. You will be responsible for developing and delivering accessible curricula, utilizing assessments like CASSAS and North Star, and ensuring that participants develop the digital and academic skills necessary for workforce readiness and personal empowerment.

Key Responsibilities:

Curriculum Development & Instruction

Design and deliver digital literacy curriculum that is accessible to clients with literacy challenges, focusing on basic digital skills, such as critical thinking, media literacy, and problem-solving.

Use a variety of instructional methods, including hands-on practice and visual aids, to teach clients with limited reading skills, making sure that learning materials are clear, simple, and interactive.

Integrate essential digital tools like Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), personal devices (smartphones, iPads), and workplace technologies to provide real-world digital skills.

Foster a supportive learning environment where clients feel comfortable navigating technology and building confidence in their abilities.

Assessment & Client Support

Use CASSAS (Comprehensive Adult Student Assessment Systems) to assess clients’ basic education levels and identify skill gaps in areas like reading, math, and digital literacy.

Use North Star Digital Literacy Assessments to measure clients' skills in core digital areas and track progress.

Provide individualized support to clients based on assessment results, offering additional help as needed to ensure that all clients can progress at their own pace.

Focus on building basic literacy skills alongside digital literacy, using targeted strategies to support clients in overcoming barriers to reading and understanding digital materials.

Technology Integration & Resource Management

Set up and maintain technology (laptops, tablets, phones) and ensure that all digital tools are accessible and functional for clients with diverse learning needs.

Model the use of technology in a hands-on, step-by-step manner, providing real-time assistance and ensuring clients gain comfort and proficiency with digital tools.

Program Development & Workforce Readiness

Design programs that are simple and engaging, helping clients with limited literacy to build the digital skills necessary for workplace success.

Ensure that training materials are accessible and appropriate for the 5th-grade reading level or below, using visual aids, audio materials, and interactive learning methods to enhance understanding.

Collaborate with local employers to ensure that the skills being taught are aligned with the needs of the workforce, helping clients transition from training to employment with confidence.

Community Engagement & Stakeholder Collaboration

Build strong relationships with clients, their families, and community partners to create a supportive, encouraging learning environment.

Work with internal teams (e.g., outreach, marketing) to promote digital literacy programs and ensure strong community participation.

Engage clients with empathy and understanding, ensuring they feel supported as they navigate both literacy and technology challenges.

Program Evaluation & Reporting

Regularly assess client progress through CASSAS, North Star, and other tools, tracking advancements in both digital and basic literacy skills.

Provide feedback and recommendations to help clients stay on track with their goals and celebrate milestones, fostering a sense of accomplishment and motivation.

Document progress, success stories, and challenges accurately in Salesforce or other systems for tracking participant outcomes.

Qualifications:

Experience working with individuals with literacy challenges, especially those with a 5th-grade reading level or below.

Experience teaching digital literacy or workforce readiness programs, with a focus on accessibility for learners with limited literacy skills.

Familiarity with CASSAS (Comprehensive Adult Student Assessment Systems) and North Star Digital Literacy Assessments, or similar tools for evaluating basic literacy and digital skills.

Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate clearly and effectively with clients who may have limited reading and comprehension skills.

Patience, empathy, and flexibility, with a passion for supporting underserved individuals in achieving their educational and workforce goals.

Ability to simplify complex concepts and use creative approaches to engage learners at different literacy levels.

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and other digital tools used in workplace settings.

Why Work with Us?

At the North Lawndale Employment Network, we are committed to helping individuals gain access to education, technology, and meaningful job opportunities. As a Digital Equity Specialist, you’ll have the opportunity to empower clients in the North Lawndale community, helping them overcome literacy barriers and build the digital skills they need for success in today’s workforce.

How to Apply:

Submit your resume and cover letter to outreach@nlen.org. We are looking for someone who can start immediately.