CAREERS

DUE: APRIL 7, 2026
Selection Notification: April 17, 2026 Curriculum Submission Deadline: May 18, 2026

Organizational Background

As we celebrate 60 years of impact, LINK Unlimited Scholars continues to expand opportunities for talented and ambitious Black students across Chicago. LINK prepares Scholars to enroll in college, persist, and graduate prepared to lead and thrive in their careers and communities. Through academic enrichment, scholarships, college access, leadership development, career exposure, and mentoring, LINK works to increase college completion and long-term economic mobility for Scholars and their families.
A key component of this work is our Summer Learning program, a 4-week academic enrichment and acceleration experience designed to strengthen Scholars’ academic skills, positioning them to enter the upcoming school year more confident, better prepared, and ready to perform at a higher level.

Project Overview

LINK Unlimited Scholars is seeking proposals from qualified curriculum designers to develop an engaging, culturally relevant English Language Arts (ELA) curriculum for rising 10th-grade Scholars participating in LINK’s Summer Learning program. The curriculum should function as an academic accelerator, deepening mastery of the analytical reading, writing, and critical thinking skills they will need in the upcoming academic year.

The curriculum should:

• Align with Illinois Learning Standards / Common Core ELA Standards for Grades 9–10
• Strengthen Scholars’ ability to analyze complex texts and construct evidence-based writing
• Integrate culturally relevant literature and texts
• Provide rigorous instruction that prepares Scholars for the expectations of high school English coursework

Scholars attend a wide range of schools with varying levels of preparation. The curriculum should therefore include scaffolding and differentiation strategies that support varying skill levels while maintaining high academic expectations.

Desired Scholar Learning Outcomes

By the end of the Summer Learning ELA course, Scholars should be able to:

• Analyze literary and informational texts to identify central ideas, themes, and author perspectives
• Cite and integrate textual evidence to support interpretations and claims
• Write structured analytical paragraphs that include claims, evidence, and explanation
• Compare how different authors address similar themes or issues
• Demonstrate stronger use of academic vocabulary and written expression
• Engage critically with culturally relevant texts that reflect diverse Black perspectives and experiences

Curriculum Content Priorities for 10th Grade Scholars

The 10th-grade course should build on the progression of LINK’s ELA program and serve as a bridge between 9th-grade literary identity exploration and 11th-grade historical and rhetorical analysis.

Curriculum should emphasize:

• Close reading of complex texts
• Author’s purpose, tone, and rhetorical choices
• Comparative analysis across texts
• Analytical writing using textual evidence
• Critical discussion of themes such as identity, power, leadership, and social change

Texts should include voices from Black authors, thinkers, and cultural movements while strengthening students’ analytical reading and writing skills.

Scope of Work

The selected vendor will develop a complete ELA curriculum that includes:

Curriculum Components

• Pre-Assessment
• Post-Assessment
• Alignment with Common Core / Illinois ELA Standards (Grades 9–10)
• Lesson Objectives
• Curriculum Pacing Guide aligned to the nine instructional days and varying 60-minute and 90-minute class structures
• Daily Lesson Plans
• Bell Ringers
• Exit Tickets
• Formative Assessments
• Differentiation Strategies
• Materials List

Instructional Materials

• Slide presentations
• Student handouts
• Activity guides
• Assessment materials

Technology Considerations

Scholars will generally have access to computers or tablets during Summer Learning. However, lessons should still be designed so they can be fully implemented through paper-based instruction in the event of technological challenges.

Assessment Expectations

The pre- and post-assessment structure is critical to this project.

The curriculum must include:

• A diagnostic pre-assessment that measures Scholars’ baseline reading and writing skills.
• A post-assessment that measures the same standards and competencies, allowing LINK to accurately measure academic growth.

The post-assessment should not be identical to the pre-assessment. It should assess the same skills using different texts or prompts to ensure the validity of growth measurements.

Summer Learning Program Structure

Summer Learning will run for four (4) weeks. During this program, Scholars participate in two academic courses each day: Math and English Language Arts (ELA). These courses are referred to as Core Class 1 and Core Class 2. One course will be Math and the other will be ELA. The order may vary by cohort.

During Weeks 2–4, Core Class 2 is divided into two instructional segments (Part 1 and Part 2). These two segments together form the full instructional block for that course. Core Class 2 (Parts 1 and 2) may also be either Math or ELA, depending on the schedule.

The instructional schedule differs between Week 1 and Weeks 2–4, and curriculum must align with these different instructional time blocks.

Proposal Submission Requirements

Proposals should include:

• Vendor resume, which also highlights curricula design experience
• Curriculum overview
• Central question or theme that guides the curriculum
• Scope of work
• Anticipated standards and objectives
• Description of culturally relevant elements
• One sample lesson outline or activity demonstrating instructional approach and cultural relevance
• Proposals Must also Answer the Following Questions:
  1. How will your curriculum ensure it is culturally responsive and engaging for LINK Scholars?
  2. How will your curriculum function as an academic accelerator preparing LINK Scholars for high school English coursework?
  3. How will the pre- and post-assessments measure meaningful Scholar growth?
  4. How will teachers and Scholars monitor progress throughout the program?

Evaluation Criteria

Proposals will be evaluated based on:

• Alignment with Common Core / Illinois ELA Standards
• Academic rigor and alignment with the accelerator model
• Cultural relevance and responsiveness
• Quality of assessment design
• Experience developing curriculum for diverse learners

Selection Notification: April 17, 2026

Collaboration and Progress Check-Ins

The selected curriculum designer will work closely with LINK staff during the curriculum development period to ensure alignment with program goals and progress toward the submission deadline. Following vendor selection, the designer will participate in brief weekly check-ins over the four-week development period, which may occur through short virtual meetings (approximately 15–20 minutes) or email updates. These check-ins are intended to support alignment, provide feedback during development, and address any questions early in the process.
Prior to final submission, the curriculum designer will participate in one final (60-75 minute) review session with LINK staff to walk through the completed curriculum, confirm that all required components are included, and ensure the pacing, assessments, and instructional materials align with the Summer Learning schedule and program goals.

Budget

The total budget for this curriculum development project is $2,500, which includes curriculum development, participation in progress check-ins, and the final curriculum review session.

Submission Instructions

Please submit proposals via email to: Myaah Morgan, Director, Educational Programs at mmorgan@linkunlimited.org

Proposal Deadline: April 7, 2026, 11:59 PM

At LINK Unlimited Scholars, our mission has always centered on advancing educational equity for students who have been historically underrepresented in higher education. By addressing systemic inequities through programming, we ensure our Scholars have the access and support they need to thrive to, through, and beyond college. Annually, we serve 300+ Scholars through our six-year fellowship, which spans middle through high school, focused on academic enrichment, scholarships, college access, leadership development, career exposure and mentoring. This holistic approach not only prepares Scholars for college success but also nurtures their confidence, character, and commitment to community. The success of our Scholars is a powerful testament to what’s possible when we invest in education. Since 1966, we have served over 2,500 low- to moderate-income students. Our Scholars are outpacing their peers and graduating from college at rates higher than the national average (55% vs. 48%), nearly twice the national average for Black students (55% vs. 28%), and more than three times the average for Black students in Chicago (55% vs. 17%).

Teach. Inspire. Accelerate learning. Join LINK’s four-week Summer Learning program and help Scholars strengthen the skills that fuel college success.

Position Summary

As an integral part of the Summer Learning team, the Summer Learning Instructor (SLI) is responsible for delivering lessons/programming as a part of our academic accelerator and career exploration programming. Summer Learning Instructors (SLIs) deliver rigorous, engaging instruction and cultivate an inclusive classroom experience. They work closely with Scholars to ensure they are challenged academically and build community through collaboration and peer engagement. Summer Learning courses will focus on grade-level content designed to accelerate Scholars academically for their Math or ELA courses in the upcoming school year.

Additionally, one day each week will focus on experiential learning and include job shadowing and/or field trips across the Chicagoland area. During such programming, SLIs will serve as chaperones and support Scholars in preparing for, engaging in and reflecting on those experiences.

All curricula, instruction materials and training will be provided. SLIs will collaborate with and report to the Director, Educational Programs.

Summer Learning Courses

• 7th & 8th grade Math & ELA
• High school math: Pre-Algebra, Algebra 1, Algebra 2 and Geometry
• High school English: English I, English II, English II and Literature and Composition
• Field Studies: Career exploration is a key component of LINK programming. Scholars will complete several career-focused experiences through Summer Learning to gather real-world knowledge on a variety of roles. SLIs will support pre-experience instruction and day-of-event support.

Responsibilities will include (but are not limited to):

Instruction/Grading

• Prepare and deliver instruction daily according to the LINK provided curricula and lesson plans.
• Support and build relationships with an assigned cohort of Scholars as they engage in programming.
• Assist with receiving Scholars and dismissing Scholars from programming daily.
• Maintain accurate records and report required data according to LINK timelines and due dates, including but not limited to attendance, grades and related program metrics.
• Track Scholar assignment completion and participation.
• Grade/score assignments, pre-assessments and post-assessments.
  • Ensure all Scholars in the assigned cohort complete each assigned  assessment.
• Perform chaperone duties during off-site experiential/field studies Summer Learning Programming.

Planning/Preparation

• Attend one mandatory orientation meeting and regular office hour meetings to attain necessary clarity around lesson execution, programming participation and any time sensitive program updates.
• Review provided academic materials to internalize the lesson plans and prepare as necessary to deliver instruction.
• Attend Daily Morning Huddles to check-in and gather needed materials.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree REQUIRED.
• Bachelor’s degree in education, social/human services, counseling, social work or related field preferred.
• Previous teaching/instructional experience REQUIRED, specifically in the content area of desired instruction (ex. in-school, after-school programs, summer programs). Evidence of teaching experience will be REQUIRED.
• Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) with appropriate grade-level and/or subject-area endorsement (middle school and/or high school content areas strongly preferred).
• Candidates actively pursuing licensure or with strong instructional experience in academic enrichment settings will also be considered.
• Experience working with youth, specifically Black youth preferred.
• Availability on all instructional days (ex. M-Th 8:30am-2:30pm depending on assigned grade level).
• Ability to interact professionally and effectively with 7th-11th grade Scholars, Families and volunteers.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Characteristics

• Exemplifies the LINK Unlimited Scholars’ mission, vision and values and acts in accordance with all policies and procedures of the organization.
• Growth mindset and servant leader approach to education in Chicago.
• Cheerful and welcoming demeanor.
• Must have an outgoing and engaging personality.
• Strong work ethic.
• A self-starter, creative and forward thinker.
• Must have the utmost integrity and an ability to process, protect and exercise discretion in handling confidential information and materials.
• Exercises good judgment with an ability to manage situations with tact and discretion.

Work Schedule/Commitments

• Contract Dates: June 8, 2026-August 5, 2026
• Summer Learning Start Date: July 6, 2026; Summer Learning End Date: July 30, 2026.
  • Monday-Thursday, 8:30a-1:30pm (for 7th-9th grade Instructors)
  • Monday-Thursday, 8:30am-2:30pm (for 10th & 11th grade Instructors)
• Mandatory in-person Orientation in early June (date TBA)

Compensation

• 7th-9th grade Instructors:  will be compensated $2,500. This role is not eligible for health, dental, and vision insurance or any other benefits.
• 10th & 11th grade Instructors:  will be compensated $3,000. This role is not eligible for health, dental, and vision insurance or any other benefits.
• Mandatory Orientation, Training, & Curricula Office Hours: $50 per hour. For in-person orientation, LINK Unlimited Scholars will reimburse up to $15.00 for parking. Instructors will be responsible for their own parking during Summer Learning.

To Apply

Submit an application at the following link: https://recruiting.paylocity.com/recruiting/jobs/All/9f42f360-fe7d-4557-a988-51234a605b20/LINK-Unlimited-Scholars by Tuesday, March 31, 2026.

LINK Unlimited Scholars is an equal opportunity employer.

LINK Unlimited Scholars (LINK) is where hard work meets heart work. The work is demanding and fast-paced, but deeply rewarding. We push ourselves because our Scholars deserve nothing less. If that doesn’t scare you AND you’re adaptable, driven, and ready to invest in changing the trajectory of our Scholars lives and our city’s future, then we invite you to join our team!

We LINK students who have been historically underrepresented in higher education, especially Black students, with the resources and support needed for success as they advance to, through, and beyond college.

Chicago’s educational system amplifies persistent inequities, creating a significant college completion gap for historically underrepresented students, particularly Black students. LINK’s goal is to mitigate the effect of these systemic and structural forces by improving and increasing access to educational opportunities and college completion for students who have been historically underrepresented in higher education, especially Black youth in Chicago. By equipping our Scholars with the knowledge, skills, resources, and social equity that further college completion and career placement, LINK is increasing the economic mobility and stability of historically underrepresented students and cultivating a diverse leadership pipeline for our city.

Since 1966, we have successfully supported over 2,500 low- to moderate-income students.  In the 2025-2026 academic year, we will serve 300+ Scholars (Jr. LINK, High School & Collegiate Scholars). Our Scholars represent more than 60 Chicagoland neighborhoods, with a focus from ten South and West Side communities: Auburn Gresham, Austin, Bronzeville, Englewood, Garfield Park, Greater Grand Crossing, North Lawndale, Roseland, South Shore, and Washington Park.

Position Summary

The Director, Outreach & Enrollment leads the strategy, planning, and execution of LINK’s outreach, recruitment, admissions, and onboarding process. This role ensures organizational sustainability by recruiting and enrolling mission- and value-aligned Scholars and families. The Director manages recruitment pipelines, application and admissions processes, Scholar/family onboarding, and community partnerships to meet annual enrollment goals.

Outreach & Enrollment Strategy

• Lead the strategy, planning and execution of LINK’s student outreach, recruitment and enrollment process that yields 75-100+ new mission aligned Scholars annually (Jr. LINK & High School Fellowships).
  • Develop and maintain school partnerships to support our Scholars and programming (including recruitment efforts, high school options for our middle school Scholars, partnership MOU’s, etc.).
    • Manage the strategy for onboarding, offboarding, and deepening school partnerships, including the MOU/Partnership Agreement and process.
  • Collaborate with CPS, Private and Parochial schools, and community-based organizations to recruit academically ambitious students into the program.
  • Facilitate events and programming to garner interest for new applicants.
• Ensure our Scholars reflect the communities we serve by ensuring student applications and enrollment from each of our 10 focused neighborhoods.
• In alignment with organizational annual goals, establish annual team goals and strategies to achieve them.
• Stay apprised of best practices in the fields of recruitment and admissions.

Data Analysis & Strategic Direction

• Maintain and analyze recruitment and enrollment data to track progress toward goals.
• Develop reports to monitor application trends, yield rates, and enrollment outcomes.
• Use data to refine recruitment strategies and ensure equitable access.
• Maintain accurate data in Salesforce and other systems to monitor recruitment & enrollment progress.
• Use data to inform program improvements, report outcomes, and guide strategic decision-making.
• Design feedback strategies to gather stakeholder feedback to inform recruitment and engagement efforts.
• Manage the collection and organization of data to evaluate and measure outcomes.
  • Maintain data relating to school demographics, point of contact, academic successes, etc. for all attended high school fairs and partners.
  • Identify and recommend key recruitment and engagement indicators and outcomes.
  • Track and report regularly on outcomes of recruitment & engagement efforts.
  • Utilize and interpret data for program and process evaluation and decision making so as to make recommendations for continuous improvements.
  • Maintain student/family and partner information in Salesforce.
• Translate findings from outcomes, survey data, and stakeholder feedback into actionable insights.

Stakeholder Engagement & Partnerships

• Develop and maintain a communications plan and cadence for check-ins with schools, families, and community partners.
• Build and steward long-term school and community relationships to strengthen pipelines.
• Collaborate with civic and community partners to increase organizational visibility and expand Scholar recruitment networks.

Leadership & Supervision

• Collaborate with 2–3 Program Coordinators in a project-based manner, providing clear direction, coaching, and day-to-day oversight to ensure project plans are executed with excellence, on time, and aligned to LINK’s goals, while also fostering Coordinators’ professional growth.
• Collaborate with peer Directors and co-lead initiatives to ensure Scholars experience holistic, seamless support across programs (e.g. Scholar Orientations, Kick-Off, Scholar Celebration).
• Create detailed project plans, timelines, and budgets, ensuring projects are completed on time and within scope.
• Work collaboratively with departments to ensure project success.
• Clearly communicate organizational priorities and translate them into actionable tasks in guiding team collaboration and Scholar outcomes.
• Model and reinforce LINK’s values in daily work, decision-making, and expectations of others.
• Manage program budgets and allocate resources effectively.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relative field REQUIRED. Master’s degree or higher preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of professional work experience.
• Minimum of five (5) years of student recruitment, admissions, community outreach or equivalent REQUIRED.
  • Experience working with students and families in the nonprofit sector, preferably with Black students, highly desired.
• Catholic, urban public school, and/or charter school experience is a plus.
• A minimum of five (5) years Supervisory experience that has included full or part-time direct reports is REQUIRED.
• Program event management and facilitation experience required.
• Demonstrated success developing and managing external relationships with schools, community-based organizations, and civic leaders.
• Proven ability to design and execute strategic recruitment plans and meet enrollment targets.
• Strong experience managing data to track recruitment pipelines, application trends, and enrollment outcomes.
• Exceptional public speaking, presentation, and relationship-building skills; comfortable representing LINK with schools, families, community groups, etc.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent time management skills with proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Demonstrated ability to work at a rigorous pace, prioritize multiple projects/assignments, communicate about challenges, plan, and most importantly, follow through to meet deadlines and objectives.
• Strong experience using data systems to monitor outcomes (applications, acceptances, scholarships, financial aid), track staff deliverables, and enforce accountability.
• Ability to independently lead strategy, planning, and execution without the need for detailed oversight or step-by-step direction; proactively identify challenges, propose solutions, and drive work forward aligned with organizational goals.
• Strong experience using data to drive and achieve programmatic outcomes, programmatic improvement, and demonstrate impact, including survey design and analysis.
• Problem Solving and Critical Thinking: Ability to break down tasks into manageable sections to make informed decisions to tackle a larger problem.
• Proven ability to operate with an entrepreneurial mindset, including ownership, accountability, efficiency, and hustle to achieve results in evolving environments.
• Proficiency in project management tools (preferably Basecamp) and data platforms (Salesforce preferred).
• Advanced skills with Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, or similar software with the ability to learn new or updated software.

Characteristics

• Embodies LINK Unlimited Scholars’ mission, vision, and values with integrity and consistency.
• Demonstrates an entrepreneurial mindset: resourceful, proactive, and innovative; takes full ownership and accountability for results and works with the urgency and hustle needed to deliver for Scholars.
• Operates with a solution-oriented, can-do attitude; persistent and proactive in addressing challenges.
• Flexible and adaptable, thrives in fast-paced, evolving environments, and comfortable working with ambiguity.
• Scholar-centered: prioritizes the needs and outcomes of Scholars above personal convenience.
• Resilient and growth-minded: seeks feedback, learns quickly, and continuously improves.
• Collaborative and community-minded; builds strong relationships with staff, Scholars, families, and partners.
• Creative and forward-thinking; unafraid to pivot when necessary.
• Exercises sound judgment and discretion, with an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Work Schedule

Full-Time, Monday through Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm, but requires 40-50 hours per week. Hybrid schedule: remotely twice a week (Mondays & Fridays) and in-office Tuesday through Thursday.  Must also have flexibility to work on occasion Saturdays and evenings to support programming or other organizational events.

Compensation

Salary range $75,000-$85,000. Our salary scale is intended to align with experience relative to THIS position. Those with the least amount of directly relevant experience are considered at the lower end of the scale, while those with the most directly relevant experience are considered toward the top of the scale. Candidates should be prepared to share their salary expectations and explain how their background and experience align with the responsibilities of THIS position.

Full-time employees are eligible for health, dental, and vision insurance, Retirement, PTO days, 11 Holidays, and a holiday shut down from Christmas Eve through New-Year’s Day.

https://recruiting.paylocity.com/recruiting/jobs/All/9f42f360-fe7d-4557-a988-51234a605b20/LINK-Unlimited-Scholars

LINK Unlimited Scholars is an equal opportunity employer.

LINK Unlimited Scholars (LINK) is where hard work meets heart work. The work is demanding and fast-paced, but deeply rewarding. We push ourselves because our Scholars deserve nothing less. If that doesn’t scare you AND you’re adaptable, driven, and ready to invest in changing the trajectory of our Scholars lives and our city’s future, then we invite you to join our team!

We LINK students who have been historically underrepresented in higher education, especially Black students, with the resources and support needed for success as they advance to, through, and beyond college.

Chicago’s educational system amplifies persistent inequities, creating a significant college completion gap for historically underrepresented students, particularly Black students. LINK’s goal is to mitigate the effect of these systemic and structural forces by improving and increasing access to educational opportunities and college completion for students who have been historically underrepresented in higher education, especially Black youth in Chicago. By equipping our Scholars with the knowledge, skills, resources, and social equity that further college completion and career placement, we are increasing the economic mobility and stability of historically underrepresented students and cultivating a diverse leadership pipeline for our city.

Since 1966, we have successfully supported over 2,500 low- to moderate-income students.  In the 2025-2026 academic year, we will serve 300+ Scholars (Jr. LINK, High School & Collegiate Scholars). Our Scholars represent more than 60 Chicagoland neighborhoods, with a focus from ten South and West Side communities.

Position Summary

The Manager of Marketing & Communications leads the day-to-day execution of our marketing, communications, and brand storytelling efforts. This role ensures our work, impact, and voice are communicated clearly and consistently across platforms to engage stakeholders, strengthen brand visibility, and support fundraising and advancement efforts. This role manages our comprehensive communications and social media calendar, ensuring that programs, milestones, events, and impact are consistently reflected across platforms. The Manager of Marketing & Communications works closely with staff across departments to identify stories, capture program highlights, and translate our work into compelling communications.

The ideal candidate is someone who loves writing and creating content and sees storytelling as a powerful tool to elevate impact. This role requires a creative and strategic thinker who can look across our organization holistically, identify meaningful stories, and translate our work into compelling communications that inspire engagement, strengthen visibility, and support fundraising and resource development. This is a hands-on communications role for a professional who enjoys both strategy and execution, from writing stories and designing graphics to creating video content and analyzing engagement performance.

Brand Marketing & Social Media Strategy

• Manage LINK’s brand presence across all digital platforms (LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, etc.).
• Develop and maintain a comprehensive monthly social media calendar that reflects our organizational priorities, program activities, events, and Scholar achievements across departments.
• Create and design social media graphics, marketing materials, and digital content using Canva or similar design platforms, ensuring alignment with the LINK brand & guidelines.
• Schedule and publish posts regularly across social media platforms to maintain a consistent and engaging digital presence.
• Create short-form video content for social media and organizational storytelling (e.g., program highlights, Scholar stories, event recaps, and promotional content).
• Identify opportunities to capture and produce video content that elevates our impact and strengthens audience engagement.
• Develop content strategies that ensure posts are substantive, mission-driven, and impactful, rather than simply maintaining activity.
• Monitor social media platforms daily and respond appropriately to comments and messages.
• Identify opportunities to elevate Scholar voices, program milestones, donor engagement, and organizational impact.

Content Development & Storytelling

• Identify, develop, and write compelling stories that highlight the experiences and achievements of Scholars, Mentors, and the broader LINK community.
• Translate program updates, milestones, and outcomes into engaging narratives that communicate our impact to diverse audiences.
• Proactively gather stories, updates, and program highlights from staff across departments to ensure communications reflect the full scope of our work.
• Build strong working relationships with colleagues to capture timely content and follow up when information is needed to meet communications timelines.
• Think holistically about communications across the organization, ensuring messaging across social media, newsletters, website content, and campaigns is cohesive, strategic, and consistent.
• Create thoughtful content that reflects the depth and impact of our work and resonates with diverse stakeholders.

Organizational Communications & Email Marketing

• Develop and distribute organizational newsletters and mass communications to stakeholders.
• Manage email campaigns using platforms such as Mailchimp, including drafting content, designing templates, scheduling distributions, and monitoring engagement.
• Translate program updates provided by staff into compelling written communications.
• Draft communications for events, announcements, campaigns, and organizational updates.
• Collaborate with the Advancement team to develop communications that support fundraising campaigns, donor engagement, and sponsorship outreach.

Website Management

• Collaborate with our external website consultant to ensure our website remains current, accurate, visually aligned with our brand, and regularly updated with program information, stories, and organizational content.
• Identify opportunities to refresh website content and improve storytelling across the site.
• Monitor website analytics and recommend improvements to strengthen engagement and visibility.

Analytics, Strategy & Engagement Growth

• Monitor social media engagement, communications performance, and audience growth using platform analytics and reporting tools.
• Understand and support our social engagement and reach goals, using data to inform strategies that increase visibility and audience growth.
• Evaluate which types of posts, stories, and videos generate the strongest engagement and refine content strategies accordingly.
• Recommend new storytelling formats, campaigns, and digital strategies to strengthen audience engagement and organizational visibility.
• Stay informed of best practices and emerging trends in marketing, digital communications, and storytelling, particularly for nonprofits.

Federal Work Study Student Leadership

• Provide leadership and guidance to 1–3 Federal Work Study students annually who support marketing and communications work.
• Assign and manage projects such as content creation, research, and marketing collateral development.
• Provide coaching and feedback to support students’ professional growth and development.
• Ensure student work aligns with the LINK brand, standards and communications priorities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relative field REQUIRED.
• Minimum of 3–5 years of professional work experience in marketing, communications, or digital media.
• At least two years of experience managing social media strategy, digital marketing, and organizational communications.
• Exceptional writing and storytelling ability, with demonstrated experience creating compelling content across multiple platforms.
• Experience designing social media graphics and marketing materials using Canva or similar design tools REQUIRED.
• Experience creating and managing email newsletters and campaigns using platforms such as Mailchimp REQUIRED.
• Experience creating short-form video content for social media platforms.
• Strong understanding of social media engagement strategies, platform analytics, and techniques for increasing reach and audience engagement.
• Experience collaborating on website updates using content management systems (e.g., WordPress) preferred.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent time management skills with proven ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Demonstrated ability to work at a rigorous pace, prioritize multiple projects/assignments, communicate about challenges, plan, and follow through to meet deadlines and objectives.
• Strong experience using data systems to monitor outcomes.
• Ability to independently plan and execute without the need for detailed oversight or step-by-step direction.
• Problem Solving and Critical Thinking: Ability to break down tasks into manageable sections to make informed decisions to tackle larger challenges.
• Proven ability to operate with an entrepreneurial mindset, including ownership, accountability, efficiency, and hustle to achieve results in evolving environments.
• Ability to function well in a high-paced and at times stressful environment.
• Self-starter with an ability to work independently as well as on a team.
• Proficiency in project management tools (preferably Basecamp) and email platforms (Mailchimp).
• Advanced skills with Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, or similar software with the ability to learn new tools.

Characteristics

• Mission Driven: Exemplifies and COMMITTED to the LINK Unlimited Scholars’ mission, vision, and values and acts in accordance with all policies and procedures of the organization. LINK Unlimited Scholars is seeking a commitment of at least two years.
• Cheerful and welcoming demeanor.
• Strong work ethic.
• A self-starter, creative, and forward thinker.
• Demonstrates an entrepreneurial mindset: resourceful, proactive, and innovative.
• Operates with a solution-oriented, can-do attitude and proactively addresses challenges.
• Flexible and adaptable, thrives in fast-paced environments and comfortable working with ambiguity.
• Scholar-centered: prioritizes the needs and outcomes of Scholars above personal convenience.
• Resilient and growth-minded: seeks feedback, learns quickly, and continuously improves.
• Collaborative and community-minded; builds strong relationships with staff, Scholars, families, and partners.
• Creative and forward-thinking; unafraid to pivot when necessary.
• Passionate about storytelling and content creation, with the ability to identify meaningful narratives and communicate them in ways that inspire engagement and support.
• Exercises sound judgment and discretion, with an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Work Schedule

Full-Time, Monday through Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm, but at times requires upwards of 50 hours per week.  Hybrid schedule: remotely twice a week (Mondays & Fridays) and in-office Tuesday through Thursday.  This role requires regularly attending programming and events, including occasional evenings and Saturdays to gather stories, photos, and video content that authentically capture Scholar experiences and the impact of our programs. LINK Unlimited Scholars is seeking a commitment of at least two years.

Compensation

Salary range $55,000-$65,000; to be determined based on experience and skills. Full-time employees are eligible for health, dental, and vision insurance, Retirement, PTO days, 11 Holidays, and a holiday shut down from Christmas Eve through New-Year’s day.

To Apply

Submit a cover letter, resume, and salary requirements via Paylocity.  Cover letters without salary requirements will not be considered.

https://recruiting.paylocity.com/recruiting/jobs/All/9f42f360-fe7d-4557-a988-51234a605b20/LINK-Unlimited-Scholars

LINK Unlimited Scholars is an equal opportunity employer.

We LINK students who have been historically underrepresented in higher education, especially Black students, with the resources and support needed for success as they advance to, through, and beyond college.

Chicago’s educational system amplifies persistent inequities, creating deep and lasting opportunity gaps for historically underrepresented students, particularly Black students. LINK’s goal is to mitigate the effect of these systemic and structural forces by improving and increasing educational opportunities and access for students who have been historically underrepresented in higher education, especially Black youth in Chicago. By equipping our Scholars with the knowledge, skills, resources, and social equity that further college completion and career placement, LINK is increasing the economic mobility and stability of historically underrepresented students and cultivating a diverse leadership pipeline for our city.

Since 1966, we have successfully supported over 2,500 low- to moderate-income students.  In the 2025-2025 academic year, we will serve 300+ Scholars (Jr. LINK, High School & Collegiate Scholars). Our Scholars represent more than 60 Chicagoland neighborhoods, with a focus from ten South and West Side communities: Auburn Gresham, Austin, Bronzeville, Englewood, Garfield Park, Greater Grand Crossing, North Lawndale, Roseland, South Shore, and Washington Park.

Looking to make a difference by linking students to opportunities so they can take a new path—one that leads to their full potential and our city’s vibrant future?  Then join our team!

Position Summary

The Manager, Finance & Operations is responsible for leading the daily financial and operational functions of the organization. Key areas of responsibility include accounts payable (AP), accounts receivable (AR), credit card reconciliation, budget tracking, grant reporting, audit preparation, and general office operations. This full-time role reports to the President & CEO and works in close collaboration with the organization’s external accounting firm to ensure strong fiscal management and operational efficiency across the organization.

Financial Management & Reporting

• Lead day-to-day accounting operations, including oversight of accounts payable (AP), accounts receivable (AR), credit card reconciliation, and bank deposits.
• Manage credit card reconciliation and ensure timely and complete submission of receipts from all cardholders.
• Serve as the primary day-to-day liaison with the external accounting firm for bookkeeping and preparing monthly financial statements and cash flow projections closed by the 15th of the following month, including maintaining the Fixed Asset and 5-Year Pledge Schedules, the depreciation schedule, and any other documentation.
• Reconcile all bank accounts and credit cards monthly in QuickBooks Online.
• Coordinate with HR/ Paylocity to oversee MyTax Illinois and IDES filings.
• Act as the organization’s main contact with the external audit firm; coordinate and prepare documentation for the annual audit and 990 filing.
• Process all payments using Bill.com; manage vendor setup, maintain documentation (e.g., W-9s) and support 1099 dissemination.
• Manage vendor relationships by reviewing statements, ensuring timely payments, maintaining accurate records, and responding promptly to vendor inquiries or issues.
• In collaboration with the Advancement team, ensure timely and accurate reconciliation of donations between QuickBooks Online and Salesforce.
• Monitor pledge collections and coordinate follow-up to ensure payments are received within 60 days of the due date.
• Maintain accurate and organized financial records and backup documentation to ensure audit readiness.
• Collaborate with teams across the organization to produce and distribute quarterly budget-to-actual reports, facilitate meetings to explain variances and improve financial understanding across departments.
• Assist in annual budget development and revenue/expense forecasting.
• Maintain and help update the Financial Policies & Procedures Manual.
• Other duties as assigned.

Budget/Grant Management

• Assist in grants administration i.e. the preparation of grant reports or reimbursement requests for grant awards.
• Enter and update staff allocations in the budgeting system to ensure the accuracy of operating budget and forecast scenarios.
• Produce budget versus actual financial reports for grants as needed.

Operations

• Manage relationships with external operational vendors (e.g., IT support, phone services, copier/printer providers) to ensure timely service, troubleshoot issues, and maintain smooth day-to-day functionality of office systems and equipment.
• Oversee supply inventory, equipment maintenance, and other operational tasks that support daily office functionality.
• Ensure smooth processing of mail, deliveries, and general administrative needs.
• Provide occasional front desk coverage or guest hospitality as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field supplemented by courses in Accounting required.
• Minimum of 3–5 years of professional experience in bookkeeping/financial management in a nonprofit or small business financial operations.
• Solid understanding of nonprofit accounting, budgeting, and financial reporting.
• QuickBooks Online experience is REQUIRED.
• Bill.com experience is REQUIRED.
• Experience with Salesforce is highly preferred.
• Previous experience supporting a nonprofit audit process is highly preferred.
• Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets with the ability to learn new or updated software.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills with high attention to detail.
• Strong communication skills, including the ability to clearly explain financial data to non-financial colleagues.
• Excellent time management skills with proven ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Discretion and professionalism with a strong commitment to the security of confidential and sensitive information.
• Strong interpersonal and customer service skills, including the ability to confidently communicate with vendors and donors by phone to resolve issues and follow up on outstanding payments.
• Ability to function well in a high-paced and at times stressful environment.
• Self-starter with an ability to work independently as well as on a team.

Characteristics

• Mission Driven: Exemplifies and COMMITTED to the LINK Unlimited Scholars’ mission, vision, and values and acts in accordance with all policies and procedures of the organization.  LINK Unlimited Scholars is seeking a commitment of at least two years.
• Cheerful and welcoming demeanor.
• Strong work ethic.
• A self-starter, creative, and forward thinker.
• Must have the utmost integrity and the ability to process, protect and exercise discretion in handling confidential information and materials.
• Exercises good judgment with an ability to manage situations with tact and discretion.

Work Schedule

Full-Time, Monday through Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm, but at times requires upwards of 50 hours per week.  Hybrid schedule: remotely twice a week (Mondays & Fridays) and in-office Tuesday through Thursday.  Must also have flexibility to work on occasion evenings to support programming and other organizational events.  LINK Unlimited Scholars is seeking a commitment of at least two years.

Compensation

Salary range $55,000-$65,000; to be determined based on experience and skills. Full-time employees are eligible for health, dental, and vision insurance, Retirement, PTO days, 11 Holidays, and a holiday shut down from Christmas Eve through New-Year’s day.

To Apply

Submit a cover letter, resume, and salary requirements via Paylocity.  Cover letters without salary requirements will not be considered.

https://recruiting.paylocity.com/recruiting/jobs/All/9f42f360-fe7d-4557-a988-51234a605b20/LINK-Unlimited-Scholars

LINK Unlimited Scholars is an equal opportunity employer.