Program Manager/Lead Engagement Specialist (930945)

The Program Manager oversees all phases of a multi-year workforce development initiative designed to co‑design and implement an inclusive employment program that supports New Yorkers with disabilities in preparing for, securing, and retaining quality employment. The Program Manager leads program planning, co‑design activities, staff and community engagement, implementation, compliance, budgeting, and relationship management with funders, partners, and stakeholders.

The Program Manager ensures that all program operations align with WDC requirements, accessibility standards, and best practices in inclusive workforce development.

Program Leadership & Oversight

• Lead all phases of the workforce program, including preparation, co‑design, and implementation, ensuring high-quality delivery and compliance with contract requirements.
• Develop and manage project timelines, milestones, and deliverables for both staff and community partners.
• Ensure the program’s design and execution center the needs, experiences, and voices of people with disabilities.

Co‑Design Process Management

• Oversee recruitment, onboarding, and engagement of Community Co‑Designers, Staff Co‑Designers, and Advisory Community Members.
• Ensure accessibility accommodations, benefits counseling, compensation plans, and support structures are in place for all Community Co‑Designers.
• Coordinate with the Service Design Provider to support meeting facilitation, research activities, participant engagement, and design sessions.

Implementation Planning & Execution

• Lead development of the Co‑Designed Program Implementation Proposal, including staffing plans, budgets, and outcome targets.
• Oversee delivery of newly designed program models during the three-year implementation phase.
• Monitor program fidelity, quality, and alignment with approved blueprints.

Staff Supervision & Development

• Supervise program staff, including Staff Co‑Designers, job developers, retention specialists, and support personnel.
• Provide coaching, training, and performance evaluation to ensure staff are equipped to serve clients with disabilities effectively.
• Promote trauma‑informed, inclusive, and participant‑centered practices.

Community & Employer Engagement

• Maintain relationships with employer partners, community organizations, and advocacy groups.
• Lead engagement strategies to recruit Advisory Employers and community participants for research and feedback.
• Support employers in developing inclusive hiring and retention practices.

Data, Reporting & Evaluation

• Oversee all reporting requirements, including monthly updates, deliverable submissions, performance metrics, and close-out reports.
• Ensure adherence to NYC’s Common Workforce Metrics and maintain accurate data in all required systems.
• Collaborate with evaluation partners from NYC Opportunity and other entities on program assessments.

Compliance, Budget Management & Administration

• Manage program budget, including staff time allocations, participant compensation, and allowable expenses per WDC requirements.
• Ensure compliance with all privacy, accessibility, documentation, and reporting policies under the Agreement and Appendix A.
• Maintain accurate records and ensure readiness for audits, monitoring, and contract reviews.