Senior Program Manager, Workforce Development

*Applicants MUST submit a cover letter with resume to be considered.

*This position will require in-office presence. Hybrid work schedules may be possible based on specific job duties and consistent with ESD policy.

*Minorities, women, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Please contact Human Resources if you require an accommodation.

BASIC FUNCTION:

The Office of Strategic Workforce Development (OSWD) helps to create new economic opportunities for unemployed, underemployed and underrepresented workers, while simultaneously meeting the labor needs of the state’s highest-growth industry sectors. The Senior Program Manager will manage OSWD’s grant funded projects, and other OSWD programs, from project award through final project reporting requirements. This role will also build relationships with state agencies, Regional Economic Development Councils (REDCs), non-profits, and training providers to maximize the regional impact of OSWD grants.

WORK PERFORMED:

• Oversee OSWD grant-funded training programs, ensuring grantees deliver seamless training and comprehensive support services that transition participants into sustainable, higher-wage employment. Conduct site visits and attend events as necessary.
• Build and maintain relationships with governmental and quasi-governmental entities, business groups, community-based organizations, training and education providers, and higher education institutions across New York State, to drive impact of OSWD grants.
• Draft incentive proposals that clearly define project goals and ensure grantees understand all expectations.
• Coordinate with the Data and Metrics Manager to set reporting requirements for grantee agreements.
• Monitor grantee compliance with data collection and reporting requirements, tracking key metrics such as training enrollment, completion, credentials, placement, provision of wraparound supports, and retention.
• Review, analyze, and evaluate grant-funded training programs, working with leadership to provide funding recommendations to senior management.
• Support grantees with complex OSWD requirements or other issues, proactively mitigating risks to prevent project delays or contract terminations.
• Collaborate with grantees to identify and showcase success stories to highlight high-performing workforce programs funded by OSWD.
• Present written and oral summaries of project activity to executive management, as requested. 
• Oversee special projects for OSWD as assigned by leadership.
• Onboard and mentor staff, as needed.
• Assist with the constant improvement and evolution of office processes and procedures. 
• Maintain working knowledge of New York State’s labor and industry trends.
• Perform additional tasks as assigned.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

Education Level required: Bachelor’s degree preferred. Associate degree with seven years of relevant experience may substitute in lieu of a bachelor’s degree.

Experience required: At least 5+ years of direct relevant experience explicitly leading workforce development, adult education, or economic mobility initiatives. 

Knowledge required: Workforce development strategy, training program delivery, program management, contract development, and understanding of systemic barriers faced by un/underemployed and underrepresented workers. Strong knowledge and understanding of economic development, government relations, financial statement analysis, public policy and data analysis. Strong analytical, comprehension and time-management skills required, with a proven ability to be proactive and self-directed. Excellent written and oral communication skills are essential.