Associate Program Director: Lead Rural Impact & Growth

Center for Rural Affairs; Lyons (NE); On-site; USD 70,000 - 76,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance (97% employer-paid)

Retirement options

Paid holidays and PTO between holidays

Employee Assistance Program

Job summary

The Center for Rural Affairs seeks an Associate Program Director to lead and support the Community Engagement team across Nebraska and Iowa. Reporting to the Director, you will guide program activities, supervise staff and contractors, and help advance training and development while ensuring accountable, data-driven outcomes.

You will collaborate with leadership to set priorities, track progress, manage budgets and grants, and strengthen rural communities through thoughtful program design and

Qualifications

• Proven ability to build diverse partnerships and networks.
• Track record of driving program results and using data.
• Experience leading teams with inclusive decision-making.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and delegating effectively.
• Commitment to race, income, immigration status, and other identities in community work.

Responsibilities

• Support the Director of Community Engagement in overseeing program activities and staff.
• Provide guidance, feedback, and development opportunities for the team.
• Plan trainings, retreats, and identify training needs with leaders.
• Set program priorities with leadership; monitor progress and share updates.
• Drive program performance using data and evaluation to guide improvements.
• Manage day-to-day program operations including data collection, fundraising, budgeting, and reporting.

Skills

Relationship building

Results orientation

Inclusive leadership

Prioritization

Social justice

Job description

The Center for Rural Affairs seeks an Associate Program Director to lead and support the Community Engagement team across Nebraska and Iowa. Reporting to the Director, you will guide program activities, supervise staff and contractors, and help advance training and development while ensuring accountable, data-driven outcomes.

You will collaborate with leadership to set priorities, track progress, manage budgets and grants, and strengthen rural communities through thoughtful program design and