Position: Program Manager (1 position available)

Part-time, Contract

Location: Dallas, TX 

Target Start Date: September 2024

About the Organization

826 is a national network of youth writing and publishing centers whose goal is to encourage the exploration of endless possibilities through the power of writing. With the support of 826 National, local organizations, including UNT Dallas, are working together to bring a chapter of 826 to Dallas; this working group is called the 826 Dallas Project.

Inclusion Statement

As an organization committed to encouraging youth in their creative expression, personal growth, and academic success, 826 National and its chapters recognize the importance of diversity at all levels and in all aspects of our work. In order for us to serve students in a manner that is respectful, culturally sensitive, and effective, we must collectively and intentionally invest in building a diverse and inclusive organization where all are safe and welcomed. 826 National prohibits discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, religion, ethnicity, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, nationality, marital status, English fluency, parental status, citizenship, military service, or disability of any person employed by or seeking employment with the UNT Dallas Foundation. The UNT Dallas Foundation is an equal opportunity employer.

About the Position

826 Dallas Project seeks a part-time Program Manager to cultivate partnerships, oversee programming and instructional staff, and develop curriculum for writing programs hosted in a variety of in-school and out-of-school-time settings. The Program Manager also works closely with the Program Director and Fundraising Manager to shape the strategic vision and priorities of the organization, and represents the Programs Team at Advisory Committee meetings. 

This position reports directly to the Program Director and oversees 2-3 part-time instructional staff members, including Project Leads and Instructors. The individuals who will be most successful in this role are comfortable working with and advocating for K-12 youth, committed to collaboration and relationship-building, and are looking to grow their capacity as a program manager and educator. Duties include: 

Program Management

• Lead cultivation and planning meetings with funders, school leadership and teachers, and other program partners. 
• Develop TEKS-aligned curriculum and teaching resources for programs in collaboration with program partners and instructional staff, which includes lesson plans for school partnerships and activations at community outreach events. 
• In collaboration with program partners and instructional staff, develop program plans and calendars to ensure the timely delivery of programs and adequate staffing support. 
• Evaluate programs by analyzing participant surveys, collecting participant data, and producing post-program reports to share with leadership and funders. 
• Collaborate with Fundraising Manager on funding applications. 
• Manage program budgets and supplies.
• Provide regular updates to 826 National and 826 Dallas Project Program Director, Board of Directors, Advisory Committee, and funders. 

Instruction and Program Support

• Support instructional staff by facilitating in-person programming with students as need arises, cultivating a program culture of joy and excitement around writing and creative expression.
• Recruit students to participate in leadership experiences like the Student Editorial Board, and facilitate meetings with program staff. 
• Recruit community volunteers and lead any onboarding activities and training. Create and monitor volunteer schedules.

Compensation

The Program Manager will receive an hourly rate of $35/hour; paid monthly. Benefits are not included with this part-time contract role.

Time Commitment

Overall hourly commitment for the Program Manager is between 5-10 hours per week, sometimes increasing to 15-20 hours during peak program periods. 

While most work can be completed remotely and on a flexible schedule, the Program Manager must be available to take meetings during the work day. As 826 Dallas Project works with partners that offer programming in a variety of settings, some in-person availability at Dallas-area program sites during the school day, early evenings, or weekends is required.

Requirements

• Education & Experience Requirements
  • A Bachelor’s Degree in English, Education, Reading & Literacy, Child Development, or related field required
  • Minimum of 2 years previous work experience in education program development, including working with a diverse group of youth age 6-18

  • Minimum of 2 years experience managing staff or and volunteers
• Required Qualifications
  • Comfort working through ambiguity - we’re very much a startup, so flexibility and being solutions-oriented is key
  • Exceptional communication skills, both written and interpersonal

  • Top tier organizational skills: ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously 

  • Experience designing and teaching writing-based curriculum

  • Comfort working hybrid 

  • Self motivated and problem solver

  • A strong work ethic, a collaborative spirit, self-starter

  • A passion to improve literacy and a deep commitment to student success

  • Proficient with computer applications — (i.e. Microsoft office suite, Google Apps, Slack)

  • Qualified candidates must complete a background check
• Strong candidates will bring
  • Experience with copy editing and publishing is a plus

  • Experience planning and executing events for families, students, and volunteers 

  • Fluency or proficiency with the Spanish language is a plus


To apply, please complete the online application here. You will be required to upload your resume and a sample lesson plan you created. Please include your last name in the file titles (example: Smith_Resume, Smith_lessonplan). If you do not have a Google address, please email your files to 826dallasproject@826national.org with subject line “Program Manager Application”. 

Candidates are encouraged to apply before August 31, 2024. Position will remain open until filled. 

For questions, please contact 826dallasproject@826national.org.