Lead Project Manager

POSITION OVERVIEW

Family Services of America Corp, in partnership with Mecklenburg County, is seeking an experienced Lead Project Manager to manage the implementation and launch of a new 6-12 bed Emergency Placement Facility (EPF) for foster youth. This is a critical leadership contract role overseeing all aspects of facility readiness, staff recruitment, operational setup, and contract compliance to ensure a successful launch.

The Project Lead will serve as the primary liaison between Family Services of America, Mecklenburg County, and all stakeholders. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to transition into the permanent Program Manager role upon successful facility launch.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Contract & Compliance Management

• Serve as the primary contract manager and point of contact for Mecklenburg County requirements and deliverables, including all contract terms and Exhibit A (Scope of Work).
• Ensure full compliance with all contract terms, including reporting timelines and deliverable schedules.
• Coordinate the completion and submission of required documentation: insurance, licenses, certifications, and training attestations.
• Track and manage contract modifications, budget reallocations, and amendment processes.
• Maintain comprehensive project documentation: timelines, status reports, risk assessments, and compliance records.

2. Facility Implementation & Launch Readiness

• Develop and execute a comprehensive implementation plan with critical path milestones for the tentative April 2026 launch.
• Coordinate facility setup (furniture, equipment, supplies, technology).
• Ensure facility meets all North Carolina DHHS licensing requirements for Residential Child Care Facilities (10A NCAC 70I and 70J) prior to launch.
• Oversee the development of all operational policies, procedures, and protocols (e.g., crisis management, emergency evacuation, medication administration).
• Coordinate with the County on facility maintenance, utilities, and security systems.

3. Staffing & Team Development

• Lead the comprehensive recruitment strategy for all facility positions.
• Develop and implement a staff onboarding program, including mandatory trauma-informed care, crisis intervention, and de-escalation training.
• Ensure all staff complete required background checks, criminal history checks, drug screening, and mandatory County training within 10 days of contract execution.

4. Program Model Implementation

• Create the overall facility program for emergency placement services.
• Develop a framework for psycho-educational/life skills programming (minimum 3 sessions per week) and recreation/enrichment activities.
• Establish food and nutrition menus and family engagement/communication protocols.

5. Stakeholder Communication & Coordination

• Act as the primary liaison among FSA leadership, site staff, Mecklenburg County (YFS), and community partners.
• Facilitate weekly status meetings with the County Project Manager and key stakeholders.
• Establish relationships with community service providers, healthcare facilities, schools, and MCO partners.
• Develop communication protocols for emergency notifications, critical incidents, and AWOL situations.

6. Financial & Budget Management

• Monitor budget utilization against the approved line-item budget and manage startup budget allocation.
• Coordinate the invoicing process, including payroll documentation and expense tracking.
• Identify and communicate potential budget amendments or reallocations.

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS

Education & Experience

• Required: Bachelor's degree in Social Services, Human Services, Social Work, Psychology, or related field.
• Required: Minimum 3 years of supervisory and project management experience in residential child care, child protection, or a similar setting.
• Preferred: Master's degree in a related field.
• Preferred: Previous experience with North Carolina child welfare system, licensing, and implementing new programs/facilities from startup.

Knowledge & Expertise

• Demonstrated experience managing government or large-scale contracts, including budget oversight and reporting.
• Comprehensive knowledge of North Carolina child service regulations (10A NCAC 70I/70J).

Skills & Competencies

• Project Management: Proven ability to manage complex, multi-stakeholder projects with strict timelines.
• Leadership: Strong supervisory, team-building, and collaborative skills.
• Administration: Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication for internal and external reporting.
• Problem-Solving: Strategic thinking and creative problem-solving abilities.
• Flexibility: Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and adapt to change.

Additional Requirements

• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
• Ability to pass comprehensive background checks, including criminal history and drug screening.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and be available for on-call support during the critical implementation phase.
• Commitment to Family Services of America's mission, values, and cultural competency.