LifeWorks of Austin, TX is looking for a Program Director to join our Education team! The Program Director provides leadership and oversight to the Life Skills Training (LST) and High School Equivalency (HSE) programs within the Education and Workforce Development Division. This position is responsible for all aspects of the LST and HSE programs including the implementation and maintenance of high-fidelity standards to evidence-based models, as well as the delivery, management, evaluation, and reporting of services and programming. The Program Director ensures the LST and HSE programs meet all applicable standards and works collaboratively with program staff, clients, and external stakeholders to identify new strategies and community partnerships to promote and maintain the LST and HSE programs’ educational opportunities within the Austin area.

This full time, exempt position earns a competitive rate and benefits, including, 24 PTO days per year (accrued); 15 paid holidays per year; a free employee medical plan with $100 per month HSA contribution (plus other affordable employee or family medical, dental, and vision options!); a retirement savings plan with 50% match on the first 6% of contributions, and much more!

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Oversees program operations and compiles and submits reports and other documentation and deliverables on service delivery.
• Oversees hiring, orientation, training, supervision, evaluation, and dismissal of program staff in accordance with policies and procedures. Ensures staff is informed, their activities are well coordinated, and they have the necessary resources and training to carry out their work.
• Ensures quality of service delivery to promote positive client outcomes by maintaining high fidelity standards to evidence-based model(s) and by assisting staff across both programs as needed to promote and maintain high functioning teams.
• Holds staff accountable for meeting individual and program performance objectives by coaching, planning, monitoring, and appraising job results; conducting training; implementing and enforcing systems, policies, and procedures; developing and implementing performance improvement plans as needed.
• Monitors programs, and contracts and communicates with contract officers, program evaluators, and subcontractors, as appropriate.
• Assists in making budgeting recommendations, manages program budgets and monitors grant compliance. Oversees the compliance of the Youth Education and Development grant, which includes additional supervision requirements.
• Responsible for developing and implementing new programs and initiatives.
• Functions as a liaison between the Agency, funding sources, the community and governmental organizations; collaborates with other programs, divisions, and outside entities, as appropriate.
• Oversees program reporting and holds program accountable for data quality and accurate and timely reporting.
• Interfaces with the LifeWorks database system regularly to gather, analyze, interpret, and submit program data to funders and other internal and external stakeholders.
• Attends networking events, cultivates strategic partnerships, and participates in outreach opportunities in the community to promote the program and increase enrollment.
• Participates in agency-wide and community meetings and projects.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Requires a Bachelor’s degree in social or behavioral sciences, education, or related field and 7+ years of related experience with a minimum of 3 years of direct experience in a leadership or supervisory role; or
• Equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience in program management methods and procedures, including directing a program or function, and supervising and supporting managers or other related leadership roles.
• Experience with databases; proficient level experience with Microsoft Office including, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook with intermediate skills in Excel.
• Preferred experience with teaching or group facilitation in schools or alternative school settings with transition-age youth.
• Preferred bilingual in English and Spanish.

ABOUT LIFEWORKS

With more than 50 years of experience working with youth experiencing homelessness, youth aging out of foster care, young adults, and young parents, we are a fearless advocate for youth who are on journeys to lives they love and stability for themselves and their families. LifeWorks goal is to be able to provide clients with the resources they need a place to call home, the chance to heal, and the opportunity to learn and to work. We have one of the most comprehensive continuums of housing and support options for vulnerable youth in the country. We are committed to innovative problem solving, shared accountability and a relentless focus on achieving real, sustainable, and measurable results for the clients we serve. A career at LifeWorks offers opportunities to grow and develop your professional skills while making an immediate difference in the lives of youth and families in our community.