Workforce Development and Education Program Manager

The Workforce Development and Education Program Manager is responsible for leading a dynamic and empowering program that supports women in recovery from substance use disorders as they rebuild their lives through employment and education. This position focuses on creating a structured and supportive environment where participants develop job skills, achieve financial independence, and build self-confidence.

The Program Manager collaborates with residents, staff, and community partners to deliver hands-on job training, financial literacy education, and career development opportunities while addressing barriers such as debt, employment gaps, and rebuilding trust. In addition, the Program Manager oversees and develops personnel-facing initiatives within the organization’s social enterprises, ensuring workplace policies and practices promote professional growth, accountability, and success. This role requires a strong commitment to fostering accountability, respect, and self-advocacy among participants. The ideal candidate will be passionate about empowering individuals, experienced in workforce development, and skilled in creating sustainable pathways to employment and personal growth.

Responsibilities and Oversight

• Develop, implement, and oversee the Workforce Development and Education Program at Jenna’s Promise.

• Provide individualized coaching and training to help participants build job skills, improve financial literacy, and prepare for long-term career success.

• Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to create meaningful employment opportunities and partnerships.

• Address and mitigate barriers to employment, including debt management, gaps in work history, and professional development needs.

• Develop and oversee personnel and initiatives within JP’s Promising Goods, supporting employee growth, accountability, and adherence to workplace policies.

• Track participant progress, evaluate program effectiveness, and continuously refine strategies to meet organizational goals.

• Promote a culture of respect, responsibility, and self-advocacy among participants and staff.

• Meet program-specific grant requirements and manage the utilization of Workforce Development-specific funding as it pertains to resident needs.

• Prepare and present monthly board reports, ensuring transparency and progress updates.

• Participate in leadership meetings to provide program updates, strategic planning insights, and collaborate on organizational goals.

• Manage work relationships with community partners, ensuring alignment with program goals and fostering strong collaborative efforts.

• Take a lead role with crisis housing initiatives, including development of housing plans when residents are on-ramped or discharged.

• Engage in community outreach and events to promote program initiatives and expand partnerships.

• Develop, teach, and host workforce and education-related workshops geared towards meeting resident needs.

• Assist residents with navigating employment challenges related to criminal records, past charges, current charges, and pending charges.

• Track and collect program fee payments, create payment plans, and take action regarding past-due balances.

• Provide employee supervision and evaluations for staff at JP’s Promising Goods, as well as lead hiring and termination decisions in collaboration with other leadership staff.

• Regularly collaborate and interact with outside agencies such as WIOA, HireAbility, Capstone, ICAN, and other relevant workforce development organizations.

• Participate in all other initiatives and tasks deemed necessary by the organization.

Qualifications

• Ability to manage and prioritize a multitude of tasks and responsibilities

• Demonstrated exceptional communication with partners and within a multidisciplinary team

• Strong data entry and computer skills, including ability to learn and use software programs

• Ability to work independently to achieve goals and objectives articulated through training and direction from colleagues and supervisors

• Motivational interviewing, coregulation, and de-escalation

• Ability to develop new relationships and partnerships

• A minimum of a bachelor’s degree (or combined professional experience) in the fields of human services, public health, nonprofit management, socially responsible business practices, or other related field

• Demonstrated knowledge and/or understanding of mental health and substance use disorder system of care

• 3-5 years or more of related experience

To apply please submit a resume and cover letter via this listing or via email to aimee@jennaspromise.org. References may be sent with the application but are not required. References will be requested for finalists.

You can learn more about Jenna's Promise at www.jennaspromise.org

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $55,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Vision insurance

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

License/Certification:

• Driver's License, insurance and reliable vehicle (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Johnson, VT 05656: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person