Program Manager

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.
• 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 program 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 timeline.
• 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.