Director of Programs

Job Summary

Project JumpStart, Inc. (PJSI) is seeking a dynamic and mission-driven Director of Programs to lead and oversee all programmatic functions across Student Services and Employment Services.

This role is responsible for the overall success of PJSI programming by providing strategic leadership, supervision, and accountability for program performance and outcomes. The Director of Programs will lead program strategy, define performance standards, and ensure alignment between program execution and organizational goals.

This position oversees program strategy, performance management, systems development, cross-department alignment, and measurable outcomes tied to student success, job placement, and retention.

While this is a leadership role, the Director of Programs is expected to remain connected to program delivery by periodically engaging in key activities during high-volume periods and maintaining visibility with participants, alumni, and employer partners to inform continuous improvement.

This role supports programming currently serving approximately 130 participants annually across multiple cohorts and operates through team leadership, systems, and partnerships to achieve results.

Position Overview

The Director of Programs reports to the Executive Director and works in close collaboration with the Director of Operations as part of the senior leadership team. This role also works closely with partners, consultants, board members, and volunteers.

The Director of Programs has decision-making authority over program design, implementation priorities, and performance management frameworks, in alignment with organizational strategy and leadership direction.

This position provides direct supervision to Student Services and Employment Services staff and indirect oversight of instructional staff. Responsibilities include performance management, workflow alignment, professional development, and accountability for results.

Key Responsibilities

Student & Support Services Oversight

Student Services & Support is responsible for the recruitment, selection, enrollment, case management and wrap support services during the classes and for alumni. The team is responsible for meeting established goals for graduation (completion) while aligning all processes to support overall placement outcomes.

• Oversee the Student Services and Support Services team
• Provide direct supervision and performance management of staff
• Evaluate, streamline, and document departmental processes
• Ensure achievement of established goals and performance targets

Key areas of oversight include:

• Program delivery and execution
• Student recruitment, enrollment, and retention
• Case management and barrier resolution systems
• Community partner relationship management: identification and coordination
• Curriculum development and program expansion
• Reporting and performance tracking

Ensure measurable outcomes related to recruitment, barrier resolution, graduation, and retention. Develop and implement KPIs and dashboards to track student progress and program effectiveness.

Employment Services Oversight and Strategy

Employment Services is responsible for preparing students to secure employment that leads to sustainable careers in the construction industry, while also developing the interpersonal and professional skills necessary for success in their chosen pathways.

The team is also responsible for cultivating and maintaining strong employer relationships, as well as connecting program graduates to meaningful career opportunities.

In addition, Employment Services provides ongoing alumni support to ensure continued career growth, retention, and advancement.

• Oversee the Employment Services team and related programming
• Provide direct supervision and performance management of staff
• Evaluate, streamline, and document departmental processes
• Ensure achievement of established goals and performance targets

Key areas of oversight include:

• Job readiness and interview preparation systems
• Resume and profile development tools (e.g., TradeScouts)
• Job search strategy and coaching
• Employer engagement and partnership development
• Alumni support and follow-up
• Coordination of job placement opportunities

Ensure measurable outcomes related to placement rates, retention, employer growth, and alumni engagement. Establish and maintain an employer partnership strategy aligned with PJSI’s workforce development goals.

Community & Employer Partnerships

• Manage and strengthen existing partner relationships
• Identify and develop new partnership opportunities
• Serve as liaison between partners and internal teams
• Monitor and evaluate partnership effectiveness

Systems, Reporting & Operations

• Collaborate with the Director of Operations to optimize systems and workflows
• Support grant reporting and data-driven decision-making
• Implement consistent reporting structures for program performance
• Identify and implement tools to improve efficiency and coordination

Team Leadership & Organizational Collaboration

• Serve as a leader and role model for staff and instructors
• Foster a positive culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement
• Contribute to organizational strategy and cross-functional alignment
• Represent PJSI professionally with external stakeholders

Thought Leadership

Provide thought leadership to continuously improve program design, delivery, and outcomes. Contribute to organizational strategy, funding alignment, and long-term program development as a member of the leadership team.

Role Success

Success in this role will be defined by strong and consistent program outcomes, effective team leadership, and continuous improvement of systems, partnerships, and participant experience.

Minimum Qualifications

• Minimum of 7+ years of progressive leadership experience, including at least 5 years managing teams of five (5) or more members in workforce development, nonprofit management, or a related field
• Demonstrated experience supervising teams and managing program outcomes
• Experience developing systems, processes, and performance metrics
• Strong ability to lead through both strategy and execution in a fast-paced environment
• A combination of lived experience, professional experience, and/or formal education demonstrating the ability to successfully perform the role
• Valid driver’s license (or ability to obtain one)
• Demonstrated passion for PJSI’s mission and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment focused on continuous improvement and impact

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in workforce development, nonprofit programming, or related fields
• Experience with case management or wraparound support services
• Strong organizational, time management, and communication skills
• Experience in the construction industry
• Ability to navigate multiple stakeholder groups and environments
• Experience with data tracking, reporting, and performance management systems
• Experience working with employer partners, funders, and community stakeholders
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a related field preferred but not required

Work Environment

This role operates within a hybrid/in-person work model based in Baltimore, MD. Regular in-person engagement is expected, including periodic attendance at evening classes and events.

About Project JumpStart, Inc.

Project JumpStart, Inc. is a nonprofit workforce development organization committed to preparing Baltimore City residents for careers in the construction industry through training, support services, and job placement.