What are the responsibilities and job description for the Program Manager position at WhirliDog's Cafe and Training Center?
Company Description
hirliDogs Café and Training Operations | WhirliDog’s Café operates as a fully functioning restaurant and training center, providing meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The café creates an inclusive environment where employees develop workplace skills, gain independence, and contribute to the local community through meaningful work. In 2025, the café employed and trained 25 young adults with disabilities in roles such as food preparation, customer service, cleaning, and point-of-sale transactions. Staff receive structured coaching, individualized support, and ongoing skill development to help them succeed in both their current roles and future employment. Beyond technical skills, the program emphasizes confidence-building, teamwork, and problem solving—equipping participants with transferable skills for long-term independence. WhirliDogs tracks program outcomes to measure effectiveness. We monitor the number of individuals trained, ServSafe certifications earned, job placements in the broader workforce, and retention of those placements. Early results have been highly encouraging seven employees have successfully transitioned into competitive employment in other businesses. In addition to providing jobs, the café serves as a hub for community education and inclusion. Customers experience firsthand the value and capabilities of employees with disabilities, helping to reduce stigma and build a more welcoming community. The café has become a gathering place for local events, schools, and civic groups, further strengthening its impact. Through WhirliDogs Café, we demonstrate that with the right supports individuals with disabilities can thrive in the workforce, contribute meaningfully to their community, and achieve greater independence. .
Role Description
The Program Manager will oversee the planning, implementation, and execution of WhirliDog's cafe and training center programs. Responsibilities include developing and managing training programs, collaborating with team members to ensure smooth day-to-day operations, and maintaining high-quality service standards. The role also involves engaging with clients, addressing their inquiries, and ensuring the success of events and community activities. This is a full-time position and will require on-site presence at our Wilson, NC location.
Qualifications
- Project management and program coordination experience
- Strong organizational and planning skills, with the ability to handle multiple tasks and priorities
- Effective team leadership and interpersonal communication skills
- Customer service skills, with a focus on providing exceptional client experiences
- Basic knowledge food service operations
- Problem-solving and decision-making capabilities
- Experience in Hospitality or Food Service, Management, or a related field, or equivalent experience
- Availability during weekends and flexible hours to oversee events and training sessions as needed