Project Manager, Social Services Job Training Program – Chicago, IL region

As the Project Manager for the Social Services Job Training Program at Hunger Free America, your primary responsibilities will include overseeing day-to-day operations, collaborating with partners, planning and delivering training programs, and ensuring compliance with grant requirements. You’ll also be engaged in participant recruitment, developing curricula, and providing supervision to project staff, making sure that both participants and partners have a positive and productive experience throughout the program.

To qualify for the Project Manager role at Hunger Free America, candidates should ideally have three or more years of experience in workforce development or social services, along with a preference for supervisory experience in a nonprofit or government setting. While a 4-year bachelor’s degree is ideal, significant relevant work experience or an associate degree will also be considered. Strong communication skills and a commitment to social justice issues are essential.

The work environment for the Project Manager at Hunger Free America is hybrid, with most workdays spent at a project office in or near Chicago, and opportunities for limited remote work. The position is full-time, and you will continuously engage with diverse stakeholders, including program participants, nonprofit leaders, and local government partners, contributing to a positive and impactful workplace.

The Project Manager will organize various activities for program participants at Hunger Free America, including conducting hands-on workshops focused on job skills, resume writing, and interview practice. Additionally, you will collaborate with local partners to plan and hold job fairs that connect low-income individuals with employers in the social services sector, enhancing their chances of securing living-wage job opportunities.

Hunger Free America offers an array of benefits to the Project Manager position, including a strong health insurance plan with no employee premiums, a health reimbursement account, generous paid time off, and holidays. This full-time role allows you to not only contribute to the community's well-being but also enjoy a fulfilling work-life balance with ample support and resources.

When developing a training curriculum for the Social Services Job Training Program, I’d start by identifying the specific needs of both participants and community partners. Engaging with stakeholders for input is crucial, followed by outlining objectives that align with those needs. Incorporating hands-on activities, real-world scenarios, and feedback mechanisms will create a comprehensive and engaging curriculum that effectively prepares participants for their future roles.

In my previous positions, I have collaborated with various stakeholders, including nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and community groups. I focused on building strong relationships through open communication, mutual respect, and a shared understanding of goals. For example, I managed stakeholder meetings where we aligned program objectives and addressed diverse needs, ensuring everyone had a voice in the process.

To enhance participant recruitment for the program, I would implement targeted outreach strategies, including community workshops, social media campaigns, and partnerships with local organizations. Additionally, I’d leverage existing alumni networks to share their success stories, highlighting the program's impact on transforming lives. Clear communication about the benefits of the program will also be crucial in attracting potential participants.

Ensuring compliance with grant requirements is vital for the program's success. I would establish a monitoring system to track all activities, participant engagements, and data collection processes in line with grant conditions. Regular reviews, team training on compliance, and open communication with grant funders will further help maintain standards and address any issues promptly.

Facilitating workshops for job readiness skills involves creating an interactive and supportive environment. I would begin by assessing participants' current skills and understanding their goals. The workshops would include practical exercises like resume writing, mock interviews, and networking techniques. I’d encourage active participation and provide real-time feedback, ensuring participants feel confident and prepared for their job search.

To track participant progress in the job training program, I would utilize a combination of quantitative and qualitative metrics. This includes pre-and post-assessments, regular check-ins, and feedback sessions. Maintaining a participant database using tools like Salesforce could streamline tracking and reporting, allowing us to analyze data for continuous improvement and customize support for individuals.

Managing relationships with local government agencies is key to our program's success. I would build rapport through regular communication, joint meetings, and collaborative initiatives. Understanding their priorities and how our training program aligns with their objectives would be essential for fostering partnerships that support participant placements in civil service positions.

Handling challenges during implementation requires a proactive approach. I would first assess the situation, identify the root cause, and engage the relevant stakeholders to collaboratively develop a solution. Being transparent with the team and participants about challenges promotes trust, and continuous feedback channels will help in rapidly addressing issues before they escalate.

To ensure a positive training experience, I would prioritize participant engagement and comfort. This includes ensuring that training materials are relevant and culturally responsive, creating an inclusive atmosphere, and being responsive to feedback. Regular check-ins with participants would also help in addressing any concerns and adapting the training process to cater to diverse needs.

Fighting hunger and promoting social services are crucial in today's society as they address fundamental human rights. Access to nutritious food is essential for health and wellbeing, and providing job training opens pathways toward self-sufficiency for individuals affected by poverty. By addressing these issues, we create stronger communities and foster social equity, ensuring a better quality of life for everyone.