Creative Program Manager Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

SUMMARY

The Resident Services Homeownership (HO) Program Manager is responsible for the technical implementation, daily operations, and detailed monitoring of the Detroit Housing Commission’s Empowerment programs including but not limited to homeownership and workforce development. Rather than setting broad strategy, this role focuses on the practical execution of program initiatives, ensuring they are fiscally compliant and aligned with established agency objectives.

The Program Manager manages the technical workflows of program delivery, tracks key performance indicators (KPIs) to ensure operational efficiency, and maintains rigorous documentation to satisfy HUD and grant requirements. By coordinating directly with community partners and service providers, the Program Manager ensures the effective delivery of resources that support economic empowerment for DHC residents.

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Minimum: Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Nonprofit Management, or a related field.
• Preferred: Master’s degree in a relevant discipline.
• An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

• Industry Expertise: 5+ years of proven experience in program implementation or the homeownership/workforce development industry, with a focus on executing complex service delivery models.
• Operational Coordination: Demonstrated success in coordinating multi-site projects and facilitating cross-departmental workflows to meet specific program milestones and deadlines.
• Technical Evaluation & Communication: Proven experience in monitoring program outcomes, conducting impact assessments, and supporting grant compliance through data-driven reporting. Must possess the ability to present complex performance metrics and program findings in a clear, professional manner to internal teams and community stakeholders to ensure transparency and funding sustainability.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

• Transportation: Must have access to a reliable vehicle for frequent local travel.
• Licensing: Must have or be able to acquire a valid state driver’s license.
• Clearances: Must pass federal, state, and local criminal investigation clearances, and pass a drug screening test.
• Insurability: Must be insurable under the agency’s insurance policy and meet State insurance minimum requirements.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE

• Knowledge of HUD homeownership/workforce development programs, requirements, and policies/procedures preferred
• Knowledge of organization’s structure, policies, and procedures
• Knowledge of grant management and budgeting program services
• Knowledge of social service delivery systems
• Knowledge of community service and self-sufficiency programs
• Knowledge of basic office practices, procedures, and equipment
• Knowledge of standard office procedures, filing, and standard office equipment, including computer, fax, copier, telephone system
• Knowledge of the principles and practices of social work, case management, home ownership, career counseling and service delivery

REQUIRED ABILITIES

• Punctual attendance
• Attentive to details
• Communicate well verbally and written
• Innovative
• Identify problems
• Self-Starter
• Manage pressure
• Motivate
• Multi-task
• Organize
• Problem solves
• Handle fast paced & evolving environment
• Act independently
• Analyze situations
• Empathize

REQUIRED SKILLS

• Understand and apply HUD and DOL requirements, policies, and procedures in areas of workforce and homeownership
• Expertise in grant management, budgeting, and aligning expenditures with funding mandates.
• Capacity to build creative workforce strategies with obtainable metrics.
• Proficiency in program management software, Microsoft Office Suite, and data tracking platforms.
• Motivate and guide staff toward a unified departmental vision.
• Skilled in analyzing complex situations and identifying timely solutions.
• Passionate about driving change through creative program design.
• Excellent interpersonal abilities to interact with public/private agencies and residents effectively.
• Act independently and manage a mobile schedule.
• Skilled in presenting ideas/feedback in a courteous, diplomatic manner in various settings.
• Analyze situations and determine the best course of action for residents.
• Operate a computer and standard office equipment to perform work-related tasks remotely or in-office.
• Develop contacts with service providers and negotiate affordable services for residents.
• Provide informal counseling and handle sensitive information with diplomacy.
• Analyze and interpret needs and coordinate necessary services accordingly
• Analyze situations, review available actions, and determine the best course of action
• Communicate effectively orally or in writing
• Communicate with clients and agencies to obtain and provide information
• Interact effectively in a complex, dynamic environment
• Interact with public and private agencies and residents to accomplish organizational goals
• Manage multiple priorities and demands within established requirements
• Plan, organize, complete assigned work and special projects in order to meet organizational goals
• Prepare and present ideas and information in formal and informal settings
• Provide high level, quality customer service both internally and externally
• Read and understand department specific documentation, and policies and procedures

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Yes

REPORTS TO

• Directly to Project Manager
• Resident Service Director

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

[The fundamental job duties the individual must be able to perform, with or without accommodation; removal of these functions would fundamentally change the job]

• Program Oversight (50%): Collaborate with Project Managers and Case Managers the design and implementation of curriculum for the "Homeownership and/or Workforce Development" Digital Inclusion, Educational Advancement, Health & Wellness and Character & Leadership. Evaluate program effectiveness and develop data-driven improvements. Coordinate all phases of program activities, including strategic planning, day-to-day implementation, and rigorous evaluation of outcomes.
• Performance Tracking (25%): Monitor program progress through key performance indicators (KPIs). Utilize data tracking tools to measure effectiveness and produce efficient reporting. Prepare and present formal program reports and impact assessments to senior management.
• Leadership & Collaboration (10%): Lead, mentor, and support program staff. Work with cross-functional teams to ensure all activities align with the department’s vision and objectives.
• Risk & Industry Analysis (10%): Identify and mitigate program risks. Stay current on industry trends and best practices in workforce development and program management.
• Stakeholder Engagement (5%): Cultivate and maintain vital relationships with partners, funders, community organizations, and educational institutions.

SUPPLEMENTAL FUNCTIONS

[These are job duties the individual must be able to perform, with or without accommodation; removal of these functions would NOT fundamentally change the job]

• All other duties as assigned

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

• Local Travel: Frequent travel within the Detroit metropolitan area is required to visit housing communities, meet with community service providers, and attend local agency meetings. (Note: The Program Manager will have a higher frequency of travel between various DHC properties to ensure consistency in service delivery across the agency.)
• Site Supervision: Regular travel to DHC communities to oversee program implementation and provide staff support.
• Professional Development: Occasional travel for regional or federal training, conferences, and seminars related to HUD or DOL regulations may be required

PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES AND DEMANDS

• Sitting
• Standing
• Walking
• Lifting up to 20lbs or more
• Carrying
• Pushing/Pulling
• Ascending/descending stairs
• Reaching
• Bending
• Kneeling
• Crouching

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Outdoor environments
• Indoor environments
• Work in hot, cold, wet surroundings
• Confined workspaces
• High, precarious places
• Exposed to continual, multiple distractions
• Outdoor environments

EQUIPMENT

• Phones
• Computer/laptop
• Copiers/printers
• Scanners
• Monitors
• Communication systems
• Projectors

SOFTWARE

• Customer relationship management software
• Database software
• Internet software
• Spreadsheet software
• Word processing software
• Social services software for case management
• Programming software
• Payroll/human resources

DISCLAIMER

This job description should not be construed as an exhaustive list of duties and responsibilities performed by persons assigned to this classification. It is not intended to limit or in any way modify the right of any supervisor or manager to assign, direct and control the work of employees under his/her supervision. All principle duties and responsibilities of this position are essential functions of the position. Job descriptions are reviewed on a regular basis and may be revised at any time. Revisions will be communicated to employees within the classification. This job description does not constitute a contract of employment; therefore, the company may exercise its employment-at-will rights at any time.

MARIJUANA

Although marijuana has been legalized under Michigan law, it is a Schedule I controlled substance and is illegal under federal law. As a federally funded agency DHC’s employees are NOT permitted to use or possess any form of marijuana for medical or recreational purposes. Any applicant for employment who tests positive for marijuana during a pre-employment drug screening shall be ineligible for employment with DHC. Any applicant for employment who advises DHC that s/he uses any form of marijuana will be ineligible for employment with DHC. DHC is unable to grant a request for a reasonable accommodation to use marijuana under any circumstance.

EEO STATEMENT

The Detroit Housing Commission is an Equal Opportunity Employer. No personnel decisions concerning any term or condition of employment shall be unlawfully based upon an individual’s race, color, religion, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity or expression), pregnancy (including childbirth or a medical condition related to pregnancy or childbirth), national origin, age, marital status, weight, height, disability, genetic information including family medical history, military service, or misdemeanor arrest record. Additionally, DHC shall not engage in discriminatory compensation decisions or practices.