Program Manager/Lead Engagement Specialist (930945)

We help job seekers and career changers prepare for and advance in careers with a focus on sustainable, high-growth, high-demand industries. Our committed and well-trained workforce professionals deliver comprehensive workforce solutions at integrated career centers, sector-focused centers and community, and partner sites.

The Program Manager oversees all phases of a multi-year workforce development initiative designed to co‑design and implement an inclusive employment program that supports New Yorkers with disabilities in preparing for, securing, and retaining quality employment. The Program Manager leads program planning, co‑design activities, staff and community engagement, implementation, compliance, budgeting, and relationship management with funders, partners, and stakeholders.

The Program Manager ensures that all program operations align with WDC requirements, accessibility standards, and best practices in inclusive workforce development.

Program Leadership & Oversight

• Lead all phases of the workforce program, including preparation, co‑design, and implementation, ensuring high-quality delivery and compliance with contract requirements.
• Develop and manage project timelines, milestones, and deliverables for both staff and community partners.
• Ensure the program’s design and execution center the needs, experiences, and voices of people with disabilities.

Co‑Design Process Management

• Oversee recruitment, onboarding, and engagement of Community Co‑Designers, Staff Co‑Designers, and Advisory Community Members.
• Ensure accessibility accommodations, benefits counseling, compensation plans, and support structures are in place for all Community Co‑Designers.
• Coordinate with the Service Design Provider to support meeting facilitation, research activities, participant engagement, and design sessions.

Implementation Planning & Execution

• Lead development of the Co‑Designed Program Implementation Proposal, including staffing plans, budgets, and outcome targets.
• Oversee delivery of newly designed program models during the three-year implementation phase.
• Monitor program fidelity, quality, and alignment with approved blueprints.

Staff Supervision & Development

• Supervise program staff, including Staff Co‑Designers, job developers, retention specialists, and support personnel.
• Provide coaching, training, and performance evaluation to ensure staff are equipped to serve clients with disabilities effectively.
• Promote trauma‑informed, inclusive, and participant‑centered practices.

Community & Employer Engagement

• Maintain relationships with employer partners, community organizations, and advocacy groups.
• Lead engagement strategies to recruit Advisory Employers and community participants for research and feedback.
• Support employers in developing inclusive hiring and retention practices.

Data, Reporting & Evaluation

• Oversee all reporting requirements, including monthly updates, deliverable submissions, performance metrics, and close-out reports.
• Ensure adherence to NYC’s Common Workforce Metrics and maintain accurate data in all required systems.
• Collaborate with evaluation partners from NYC Opportunity and other entities on program assessments.

Compliance, Budget Management & Administration

• Manage program budget, including staff time allocations, participant compensation, and allowable expenses per WDC requirements.
• Ensure compliance with all privacy, accessibility, documentation, and reporting policies under the Agreement and Appendix A.
• Maintain accurate records and ensure readiness for audits, monitoring, and contract reviews.

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Social Work, Education, Public Administration, or relevant field; equivalent experience considered.
• 3–5+ years of experience in workforce development, disability services, community engagement, or program management.
• Experience managing staff and leading complex, multi-stakeholder projects.
• Demonstrated understanding of accessibility, accommodations, and inclusive service practices.
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem‑solving skills.

Preferred

• Experience managing government‑funded workforce programs.
• Familiarity with NYC workforce systems, ADA requirements, WIOA, and social service supports.
• Knowledge of service design, human-centered design, or co‑production methodologies.

This executive will be vital in expanding APM’s footprint in government and commercial markets by winning high-quality contracts. Success in this role will be driven by strategic insight, operational excellence, and leadership in proposal management.

This is an individual contributor role and does not have any direct reports. The Lead may from time to time be required to support work in other regions. Domestic and international travel of approximately 20–30% may be required.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Extensive standing, and sitting and continuous computer, phone, and deskwork required. Work will be primarily in a defined office environment with specified hours. Will require one on one and group interaction with individuals from a diverse range of backgrounds. Must be available for occasional out of office meetings, conferences, training, and other events as needed.

Equus Workforce Solutions is a leading provider of workforce development services in North America. With a dedicated and passionate team, Equus puts the industry’s best practices to work by focusing on the development, design, and delivery of demand-driven workforce solutions.

When you join Equus, you can expect extensive learning opportunities and networking programs. But most of all you can expect to make a lasting impact on the lives of others.

At Equus we are strengthened by diversity. We are committed to providing a work environment in which everyone is included, treated fairly and with respect. Equus Workforce Solutions is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, gender, age, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, ancestry, religion, national origin, veteran status, physical or mental disability, or reprisal or any other characteristic protected under state, federal, or local law.