Cooperative Education Coordinator Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the evolving landscape of education, the role of a Cooperative Education Coordinator is becoming increasingly critical.
As education becomes more integrated with real-world applications, the demand for skilled professionals who can bridge the gap between academics and industries continues to soar.
But let’s delve deeper: What is actually expected from a Cooperative Education Coordinator?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker aiming to understand the crux of this role,
- A hiring manager formulating the perfect candidate profile,
- Or simply curious about the intricacies of cooperative education coordination,
You’re in the perfect spot.
Today, we provide a fully adaptable Cooperative Education Coordinator job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s get started.
Cooperative Education Coordinator Duties and Responsibilities
A Cooperative Education Coordinator is responsible for developing and coordinating work-based learning programs for students, connecting them with potential employers, and preparing them for work opportunities.
The role requires a high level of organization, communication, and understanding of both academic and professional environments.
The duties and responsibilities of a Cooperative Education Coordinator include:
- Developing, organizing, and implementing cooperative education programs in line with academic and career objectives
- Building and maintaining relationships with potential employers to secure work placements for students
- Providing guidance and support to students during their work placements
- Monitoring and evaluating student progress during their work placements
- Conducting job readiness training and workshops for students
- Assisting in the development of resumes, cover letters, and interview skills for students
- Ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal regulations related to cooperative education programs
- Assisting students in resolving any issues or conflicts that arise during their work placements
- Collaborating with faculty and staff to integrate cooperative education experiences into academic learning
- Preparing and maintaining necessary documentation and reports regarding student placement and performance
Cooperative Education Coordinator Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are seeking an experienced and organized Cooperative Education Coordinator to assist in developing and implementing cooperative education programs for our institution.
The successful candidate will liaise between students, schools, and employers to create beneficial internships and apprenticeships.
Cooperative Education Coordinator responsibilities include developing employer relationships, assisting students in achieving their career goals, coordinating with faculty, and maintaining accurate records.
Our ideal candidate has a solid understanding of the job market and current trends, excellent communication skills, and a passion for helping students succeed.
Responsibilities
- Establish and maintain relationships with potential employers
- Assist students in identifying their career goals and finding suitable cooperative education positions
- Coordinate with faculty to integrate cooperative education into curriculum
- Ensure all cooperative education placements adhere to regulations and standards
- Maintain accurate records of student placements and evaluations
- Conduct site visits to monitor student progress and employer satisfaction
- Organize and facilitate workshops and presentations
- Provide support and guidance to students throughout their cooperative education experience
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Education, Career Counseling or related field
- Experience in cooperative education, career services, or similar role
- Strong understanding of job market trends
- Excellent communication and presentation skills
- Strong organizational and coordination abilities
- Ability to build and maintain relationships with various stakeholders
- Experience with record keeping and reporting
Benefits
- 401(k) plan
- Health, dental and vision insurance
- Generous vacation and sick leave policies
- Opportunities for professional development
- Tuition reimbursement program
Additional Information
- Job Title: Cooperative Education Coordinator
- Work Environment: This role is typically office-based within an academic setting. Some travel may be required for site visits and meetings with employers.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Cooperative Education or Career Services Manager.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: $52,000 minimum to $76,000 maximum
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our institution. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
- Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].
What Does a Cooperative Education Coordinator Do?
A Cooperative Education Coordinator, often found in the educational sector, plays a crucial role in linking students with meaningful work experiences that align with their field of study.
They develop, manage, and oversee cooperative education programs, which are intended to provide students with practical work experience in their chosen field.
This may involve collaborating with local businesses, industries, and organizations to secure internships, part-time, or full-time positions for students.
A significant part of their role involves providing ongoing support and guidance to students throughout their cooperative education experiences.
They may facilitate workshops, offer career counseling, prepare students for interviews, and help them develop their resumes.
They also maintain continuous communication with employers to monitor student progress, address any issues, and ensure that the work experience meets the learning objectives of the program.
Cooperative Education Coordinators may also be responsible for evaluating the effectiveness of the cooperative education program, making necessary adjustments, and reporting on the program’s outcomes to academic authorities.
They play an important role in ensuring that students are well-prepared for the workforce upon graduation.
Cooperative Education Coordinator Qualifications and Skills
A Cooperative Education Coordinator should possess a balance of educational knowledge, administrative skills and interpersonal abilities, such as:
- Strong understanding of cooperative education principles, procedures, and practices to effectively manage and coordinate co-op programs.
- Excellent interpersonal skills to establish and maintain positive relationships with students, faculty, employers, and community members.
- Strong organizational and time management skills to effectively plan, coordinate, and manage multiple cooperative education programs and events simultaneously.
- Effective communication skills to convey information and instructions clearly to students, faculty, employers, and other stakeholders involved in the cooperative education process.
- Problem-solving abilities to address any issues or challenges that arise in the coordination and implementation of cooperative education programs.
- Ability to keep accurate records and ensure compliance with institutional and legal requirements related to cooperative education.
- Proven ability to work collaboratively with academic departments, career services, and external partners to ensure successful placement and support of students in co-op positions.
Cooperative Education Coordinator Experience Requirements
Cooperative Education Coordinators are typically required to have a bachelor’s degree in education, business, or a related field, and usually have at least 2-3 years of experience in either cooperative education or career services.
As part of their experience, these professionals may have worked as career advisors, career services coordinators, or in similar roles in educational institutions.
This provides them with practical knowledge and experience in working with students, employers, and faculty, which is essential for a Cooperative Education Coordinator.
Candidates with more than 5 years of experience often have a background in program development, management, and evaluation, as well as partnerships and relationship building with both internal and external stakeholders.
Those with extensive experience, typically over 7-10 years, may have held leadership roles in cooperative education or career services departments.
They would have mastered skills such as strategic planning, program development, and stakeholder management, which can be critical for senior or director-level positions in cooperative education coordination.
Continuing education, through professional development or further academic study in areas such as career development or higher education administration, is also commonly seen among experienced Cooperative Education Coordinators.
Cooperative Education Coordinator Education and Training Requirements
Cooperative Education Coordinators typically require a bachelor’s degree in education, counseling, human resources, or a related field.
They must have an in-depth knowledge of educational programs, job markets, and college admissions procedures.
This knowledge is usually gained through professional experience in career counseling or education.
In some instances, employers may prefer candidates with a master’s degree in education, counseling, or a closely related discipline.
A master’s degree can demonstrate a candidate’s advanced understanding of education systems and career development strategies.
Work experience in a related field such as human resources, career counseling, or education is often required.
This hands-on experience allows coordinators to develop the practical skills needed to manage cooperative education programs and support students in their career development.
State licensure or certification may be required for those working in public schools.
These requirements vary by state but often include completion of an approved teacher preparation program and passage of a state examination.
Additionally, ongoing professional development is beneficial for staying abreast of changes in education standards, job market trends, and college admission procedures.
Many cooperative education coordinators pursue further education and training to improve their skills and provide the best guidance to their students.
Cooperative Education Coordinator Salary Expectations
A Cooperative Education Coordinator earns an average salary of $51,650 (USD) per year.
This figure can fluctuate based on factors such as experience, specific skills, location, and the size and type of the employing institution.
Cooperative Education Coordinator Job Description FAQs
What skills does a Cooperative Education Coordinator need?
A Cooperative Education Coordinator should have strong communication and interpersonal skills to interact effectively with students, faculty and employers.
They should have excellent organizational abilities to manage multiple programs and schedules.
They also need to have a good understanding of the job market and career counseling to guide students towards appropriate work placements.
Do Cooperative Education Coordinators need a degree?
Yes, Cooperative Education Coordinators typically need a bachelor’s degree in education, counseling, or a related field.
Some employers may prefer candidates with a master’s degree.
Additionally, experience in education, career counseling, or cooperative education could be beneficial.
What should you look for in a Cooperative Education Coordinator resume?
On a resume, look for a degree in education or a related field, and experience in coordinating programs or counseling.
Experience in a school setting or with youth can also be beneficial.
Strong organizational skills, ability to multitask, and excellent communication are key skills to look for.
Additionally, experience in building relationships with local employers could be a bonus.
What qualities make a good Cooperative Education Coordinator?
A good Cooperative Education Coordinator should be motivated and dedicated to helping students succeed.
They should be able to build strong relationships with employers to create valuable placement opportunities.
Strong organizational skills, excellent communication, and an ability to work independently are also important.
Understanding the job market and having a knack for career counseling are also traits of a successful Cooperative Education Coordinator.
How can a Cooperative Education Coordinator support student success?
A Cooperative Education Coordinator supports student success by identifying and securing work placements that complement the student’s academic and career goals.
They provide students with the necessary tools and guidance to succeed in their work placements.
They also liaise between the student, school, and employer to ensure a positive and productive experience for all involved.
Conclusion
And there we have it.
Today, we’ve uncovered the essential responsibilities and roles of a Cooperative Education Coordinator.
And you know what?
It’s not just about coordinating educational programs.
It’s about molding the future of education, one student at a time.
With our detailed Cooperative Education Coordinator job description template and real-life examples, you’re primed and ready to make your next move.
But why limit yourself?
Go further with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate tool for crafting precise job listings or perfecting your resume to the finest detail.
Remember:
Every educational program coordinated is a step towards a brighter future.
Let’s shape that future. Together.
How to Become a Cooperative Education Coordinator (Complete Guide)
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