Employment Program Manager

About Our Organization

RISE Services is dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities by providing person-centered support that promotes independence, community inclusion, and success through meaningful employment opportunities.

Position Overview

RISE Services is seeking a driven, hands-on Employment Program Manager to lead and strengthen our employment services. This is a critical leadership role, and we are hiring with urgency due to immediate program needs.

The Employment Program Manager will oversee daily operations, ensure quality service delivery, provide staff leadership, and build strong employer and community partnerships that create real job opportunities for the individuals we support.

Position structure note: At this time, the role is structured to include approximately 30 hours per week of direct client work as an Employment Specialist, in addition to program management responsibilities. This structure may be adjusted in the future based on program needs. Training will be provided.

Key ResponsibilitiesProgram Management and Quality Oversight

• Lead the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of employment programs tailored to participant needs.

• Ensure compliance with regulatory, funding, and documentation requirements.

• Monitor service quality, outcomes, and productivity; implement improvements as needed.

• Develop and maintain program workflows, tools, and best practices to strengthen service consistency.

Staff Leadership and Development

• Supervise and support a team of Employment Specialists and Coaches.

• Provide training, mentorship, coaching, and performance feedback to staff.

• Conduct performance evaluations and support performance improvement as needed.

• Assist with recruiting, hiring, onboarding, and training new staff as program needs evolve.

Direct Participant Services

• Provide direct employment services (currently structured at approximately 30 hours per week), including:

  • Job readiness training and skill development

  • Job search planning and employment goal setting

  • Resume/application support and interview preparation

  • Job development/employer outreach as appropriate

  • On-the-job coaching and retention supports

• Develop individualized employment strategies aligned with participant strengths, preferences, and goals.

• Provide ongoing support to participants as they adjust to employment and workplace expectations.

Community Engagement and Employer Partnerships

• Develop and maintain relationships with local employers to create job leads and hiring pipelines.

• Represent RISE Services at community events, job fairs, and networking opportunities.

• Advocate for inclusive hiring practices and appropriate workplace supports and accommodations.

• Build partnerships with community organizations and stakeholders that support participant success.

Data Management and Reporting

• Maintain accurate and timely records of participant services, progress, and employment outcomes.

• Prepare routine reports for internal leadership and external stakeholders as required.

• Use outcome data to inform decision-making, identify barriers, and improve program performance.

QualificationsPreferred

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Human Services, Business Administration, or a related field (equivalent experience may be considered).

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in employment services, vocational supports, supported employment, or related human services.

• Supervisory or team-lead experience preferred.

• Strong knowledge of job development, job coaching, and employment support strategies.

• Excellent leadership, communication, and relationship-building skills.

• Ability to work effectively with diverse individuals, teams, and community stakeholders.

• Strong problem-solving, organizational, and time-management skills.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and comfort with documentation/data systems.

• Commitment to advocacy and supporting individuals with disabilities in competitive, integrated employment.

Benefits (Full-Time Employees)

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance*

• PTO accrual and Holiday accrual*

• Short-Term Disability*

• Life Insurance and Long-Term Care Option*

• Employee Assistance Program

• Employee Tenure Bonuses

*Benefits are available to full-time employees only.

Compensation

$24/hour plus mileage reimbursement

Equal Opportunity Employer

RISE Services is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion