Readiness Program Manager Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

The Pathway Program Manager is a vital role dedicated to overseeing and ensuring the successful execution of ART Inc.'s Pathways to College or Careers program.  This position is responsible for working directly with at-risk youth, fostering their development, and aligning all program activities with grant goals and objectives. Operating within a trauma-informed framework, the manager will drive program success through leadership, collaboration, and tailored support for participants.

Reporting directly to the Chief of Operations and Programs Officer, the Pathway Program Manager will provide weekly updates and reports to ensure transparency and alignment with program objectives. By providing guidance, supervision, and evaluation, the Pathway Program Manager will empower participants to overcome barriers, gain critical skills, and access opportunities for lifelong success. 

Key Responsibilities:

Grant Execution

• Oversee and implement all components of the Pathways to College or Careers program in full compliance with grant requirements and timelines.
• Develop and execute comprehensive strategies to meet all program goals, benchmarks, and deliverables outlined in the grant.
• Maintain detailed knowledge of grant guidelines and ensure activities, outcomes, and reporting align with expectations.

Direct Youth Engagement

• Build trusting relationships with youth participants, understanding their unique needs, goals, and challenges.
• Coordinate one-on-one coaching and case management for addressing personal, educational, and employment barriers.
• Design and facilitate workshops on leadership, life skills, and career readiness, tailoring content to the specific needs of at-risk youth.
• Foster a welcoming and inclusive program environment that supports positive development and builds essential life skills.

Program Oversight and Leadership

• Supervise all aspects of the Pathway programs, including short-term and long-term employment components, mentorship, and participant support services.
• Assist in overseeing ART Inc.'s other youth programs, ensuring all programs are delivered effectively and consistently.
• Develop trauma-informed practices across program operations to ensure participants receive empathetic and effective support.
• Monitor and evaluate program performance, ensuring measurable outcomes are met on time and within program guidelines.
• Provide weekly updates and reports to the Program Director, detailing program progress, challenges, and achievements.

Staff Management

• Provide direct supervision, support, and guidance to program staff, including coordinators. 
• Facilitate professional development for staff to ensure adherence to trauma-informed care principles and grant objectives.
• Inspire and mentor the team to deliver high-quality, participant-centered services.

Partnership Building

• Develop and sustain partnerships with schools, employers, and community organizations to expand resources available to participants.
• Connect participants with essential services, such as mental health support, education opportunities, and job training.
• Communicate and connect with parents and families of program participants.
• Serve as a liaison between program participants, parents, staff, and external stakeholders to foster collaboration and communication.

Compliance and Reporting

• Ensure compliance with all grant reporting requirements, including the timely submission of progress reports, pre/post evaluations, and participant performance data. 
• Maintain meticulous records of program activities, expenditures, and outcomes to ensure transparency and accountability.
• Collaborate with the accounting and leadership teams to manage budgets and track expenditures against grant specifications.

Performance Monitoring

• Establish systems to track participant progress, program outcomes, and skill development. 
• Conduct regular assessments to evaluate program impact, adjusting strategies as needed to enhance effectiveness. 
• Report program progress and results to leadership, grantors, and stakeholders.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Education, Program or Project Management, Youth Development, or a related field. Equivalent experience will be considered.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience managing or coordinating programs for youth, especially those from at-risk or marginalized backgrounds.
• Proven experience working within trauma-informed care frameworks and addressing barriers faced by at-risk youth.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills to inspire and manage teams while supporting participants.
• Experience with performance tracking, grant compliance, and program reporting.
• Ability to build partnerships with diverse stakeholders, such as schools, employers, and community organizations.
• Culturally competent and able to work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Preferred Skills:

• Proficiency in English and an additional commonly spoken language.
• Certification or training in youth mentoring, workforce development, or trauma-informed care.
• Experience facilitating interactive workshops and implementing leadership development initiatives.

This full-time position is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of at-risk youth. Through leadership and a commitment to the mission, the Youth Empowerment Manager will ensure the Pathways to College or Careers program achieves its vision of empowering young people, overcoming systemic challenges, and creating pathways to brighter futures. If you’re passionate about equipping youth for success and delivering measurable outcomes, we invite you to join our team.