Program Manager Entry Level Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

The Program Manager – Entry Level (PMEL) is an early-career leadership role within Gathering Outreach Community Services, intentionally designed for individuals who are seeking to build a long-term career in education leadership, youth program management, and multi-site operations.

This position is ideal for candidates who are interested in growing into roles that oversee multiple school sites, staff teams, and program operations within an afterschool or educational environment. The PMEL supports day-to-day operations across Gathering Kids Afterschool Program sites while developing foundational skills in team leadership, program execution, and operational consistency.

Working closely with Directors and Site Leads, this role provides hands-on exposure to managing people, maintaining program quality across campuses, and supporting systems that drive successful afterschool programming. The PMEL plays a key role in ensuring a positive and structured experience for students, families, and staff.

This position is not only an entry point, but a leadership development pathway for individuals who are serious about advancing into Program Manager and Director-level roles, with a focus on leading multi-campus educational programs and operations within a mission-driven organization.

Position Objective

Within the first 12 months, the Program Manager – Entry Level will demonstrate the ability to:

• Support Site Leads in daily program operations
• Contribute to consistency across multiple program sites
• Build strong relationships with staff, students, and families
• Communicate effectively in day-to-day operations and basic escalations
• Show readiness to take on increased leadership responsibilities

Essential Functions

• Support daily program operations across assigned sites to manage and maintain program structure and expectations
• Work alongside Site Leads to reinforce staff accountability, engagement, and program quality
• Build relationships with staff, students, and families to promote a positive and welcoming environment
• Participate in program events, meetings, and team initiatives
• Assist in monitoring program delivery to ensure alignment with Gathering Kids standards
• Support onboarding and integration of new staff members
• Maintain accurate records and communication through Brightwheel
• Assist with staff time and attendance tracking using Paylocity
• Identify operational challenges and communicate them to leadership for resolution
• Support site needs related to staffing, supplies, and daily logistics
• Assist with special events, fundraising efforts, and community engagement initiatives
• Uphold all safety and minimal standards and reporting requirements
• Create and communicate after-school and summer camp curriculum plans to directors and site leads

Core Competencies Developed

• Leadership and team support
• Communication and conflict resolution
• Multi-site awareness and coordination
• Organization and time management
• Emotional intelligence and professionalism

Organizational Culture & Expectations

The Program Manager – Entry Level is expected to model the values of Gathering Outreach:

• Welcoming: Creates an inclusive and respectful environment
• Nurturing: Supports the growth and development of others
• Hopeful: Maintains a positive and encouraging outlook
• Determined: Demonstrates commitment and accountability
• Genuine: Builds authentic and trustworthy relationships

Qualifications

• Associate or Bachelor’s degree (preferred, not required)
• At least 2 years of experience in youth programs, or an afterschool program environment
• Demonstrated leadership (formal or informal)
• Strong communication and organizational skills
• Willingness to take initiative and grow within a leadership role

Schedule & Work Environment

• Full-time position
• Required presence during after-school program hours
• Travel between multiple program sites
• Occasional evenings, weekends, and events

Compensation & Growth Path

• Salary Range: $35,000 – $42,000
• Performance-based growth: Opportunities for annual pay increases
• Promotion Path: Transition into Program Manager role

Success Indicators

A successful Program Manager (Entry Level):

• Demonstrates growth in leadership and decision-making
• Builds strong relationships with Site Leads and staff
• Shows the ability to think beyond one site
• Demonstrates effective time management while maintaining quality
• Takes initiative and ownership of responsibilities
• Is prepared to lead independently at the Program Manager level

Growth Opportunity

This role is part of a structured leadership pathway within Gathering Outreach Community Services, offering opportunities to advance into Program Manager and Director-level positions, including involvement in community engagement, partnerships, and organizational growth.