Workforce Program Manager

Reports To: Executive Director 

Employment Type: Full-Time 

Location: On-site/Hybrid (In Rhode Island)

Position Summary 

The Program Manager oversees the planning, implementation, and continuous improvement of workforce training programs focused on residential trades. This role is responsible for managing applicant intake, coordinating training activities, overseeing job placement efforts, and ensuring procedural compliance across the program. Working closely with the Executive Director, employers, training partners, and internal staff, the Program Manager ensures participants are prepared for successful entry into residential trade careers and that program operations meet established goals, standards, and reporting requirements. 

Key Responsibilities 

Program Management & Oversight 

• In collaboration with the Executive Director, provide strategic direction and oversight for all workforce training programs related to residential trades. 
• Collaborate with the Executive Director on long-term program strategy and organizational planning. 
• Manage day-to-day operations of workforce training programs for residential trades (e.g., construction, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, carpentry). 
• Ensure program activities align with organizational goals, funding requirements, and industry standards. 

Operational & Procedural Oversight 

• Establish, maintain, and improve program policies, procedures, and operational workflows. 
• Ensure consistent and compliant practices across all programs, including documentation, reporting, and data tracking. 
• Monitor program budgets in collaboration with finance staff and the Executive Director. 

Staff Supervision & Management 

• Directly supervise and support multiple Program Coordinators. 
• Set performance expectations and conduct evaluations. 
• Foster a collaborative, accountable, and mission-driven team culture. 
• Ensure Program Coordinators are effectively overseeing applicant intake, training delivery, job placement, and participant support. 

External Relations & Reporting 

• Serve as a key representative of the organization with funders, partners, employers, and community stakeholders. 
• Contribute to grant reporting, proposals, and presentations related to workforce programs. 
• Communicate program outcomes, challenges, and opportunities to the Executive Director and other leadership as needed. 

Workforce Development & Job Placement 

• Oversee strategies for participant recruitment, selection, retention, and successful completion. 
• Ensure equitable, transparent, and compliant admissions processes. 
• Ensure effective job placement processes and post-placement follow-up to track outcomes. 
• Oversee maintenance of accurate participant records, documentation, and data systems. 
• Oversee monitoring of participant progress, attendance, and outcomes throughout training. 
• Build and maintain relationships with residential trade employers and industry partners. 
• Identify workforce trends and employer needs to inform program improvements. 

Training Coordination 

• Coordinate with instructors, training providers, and partners to ensure high-quality, industry-aligned instruction. 
• Support curriculum scheduling, logistics, and resource allocation. 
• Address participant or instructional issues as they arise to support successful program completion. 

Compliance & Procedural Management 

• Ensure compliance with internal policies, grant or funding requirements, and applicable regulations. 
• Support audits, monitoring visits, and documentation reviews as required. 
• Continuously evaluate and improve procedures to increase efficiency and effectiveness. 

Collaboration & Reporting 

• Work closely with the Executive Director to support strategic planning and program growth. 
• Collaborate with internal teams (finance, data, case management, etc.) as needed. 
• Prepare regular written and verbal updates for leadership and stakeholders. 

Required Qualifications 

Bachelor’s degree in workforce development, education, public administration, business, or a related field (or equivalent experience). 

3–5 years of experience in workforce development, training programs, program management, or a related field. 

Experience working with skilled trades, construction, or apprenticeship programs preferred. 

Strong organizational, project management, and problem-solving skills. 

Excellent communication and relationship-building abilities. 

Proficiency with data tracking systems, reporting tools, and standard office software. 

Preferred Qualifications 

Experience managing grant-funded or publicly funded workforce programs. 

Familiarity with residential trades, career pathways and employer needs. 

Knowledge of the residential construction industry. 

Supervisory or team leadership experience. 

Knowledge of equitable workforce practices and participant-centered program design. 

Core Competencies 

Program and operations management 

Workforce training and job placement 

Process improvement and compliance 

Stakeholder and employer engagement 

Data-driven decision-making