Program Manager - Project Search Academy (Atlanta,GA)

BDI is launching a new initiative called Elevate Academy, designed to provide a holistic approach to career development.

The Program Manager for Elevate Academy will play a crucial role in developing, implementing, and managing this innovative program. The initiative combines workplace readiness, work adjustment training, and career pathway exploration with job placement and coaching. Each 12-month cohort includes skill-building, career pathway fit assessment, placement, onboarding, and six months of ongoing coaching.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES

• Design and develop the Elevate Academy curriculum in collaboration with key stakeholders.
• Implement the program, ensuring alignment with BDI's mission and strategic goals.
• Develop and manage timelines, budgets, and resources for program execution.

• Oversee the recruitment, enrollment, and orientation of program participants.
• Monitor participant progress, providing guidance and support throughout the program.
• Facilitate skill-building workshops, career pathway exploration sessions, and work adjustment training.

• Collaborate with employers to identify job placement opportunities for program participants.
• Support participants in the job application and interview process.
• Provide ongoing coaching and support for six months post-placement to ensure successful onboarding and retention.

• Build and maintain relationships with community partners, employers, and other stakeholders.
• Advocate for the needs and rights of individuals with disabilities in the workforce.
• Represent Elevate Academy at community events, conferences, and relevant forums.

• Track program metrics and outcomes to assess effectiveness.
• Collect and analyze participant feedback to identify areas for improvement.
• Implement continuous improvement initiatives based on evaluation results.

• Recruit, train, and manage program staff and volunteers.
• Promote a culture of continuous learning and professional development.
• Conduct regular performance evaluations and provide constructive feedback.

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree in Education, Social Work, Vocational Rehabilitation, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in program management, preferably in vocational rehabilitation, workforce development, or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience working with individuals with disabilities.
• Proven track record in job placement and coaching.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Strong leadership and organizational skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to develop and maintain collaborative relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities.
• Commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion.

COMPETENCIES

• Advocacy
• Ethics and Integrity (including avoiding conflicts of interest)
• Effective Communication
• Organization and Planning
• Service Orientation

TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED

• Personal computer, copy machine, facsimile machine, telephone/voicemail system, and other general office equipment.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Moderately quiet office.
• This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets and fax machines

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY
Program trainers, job coaches, and volunteers

POSITION TYPE/EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK
This is a full-time position with expectations of a minimum 40-hour work week.

TRAVEL
Travel to schools, community events, etc..

OTHER DUTIES
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice. Job descriptions should not be construed as an employment contract or guarantee of employment.