Program Director

HANDS THAT MAKE A DIFFERENCE INC; New York (NY); On-site; USD 50,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Free uniforms

Training & development

Job summary

HANDS THAT MAKE A DIFFERENCE INC is looking for a Program Director for the COMPASS After-School Program in New York City. In this role, you will lead the on-site implementation and management of the program, ensuring high-quality educational and developmental activities for middle and elementary school students.

The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree in Education, with at least three years of experience in youth development and program management. Strong organizational and communication skills are essential.

Qualifications

• Minimum of three years of experience in youth development or related fields.
• Proven experience in after-school program management.
• Familiarity with DYCD/SACC requirements.

Responsibilities

• Oversee full implementation and management of the COMPASS program.
• Recruit, train, and supervise program staff.
• Ensure compliance with DYCD and SACC regulations.
• Manage program budgets and resources.
• Build relationships with school administrators and community stakeholders.
• Develop STEM and arts activities incorporating SEL and responsive pedagogy.
• Promote the program in target communities.

Skills

Organizational abilities

Communication

Relationship-building

Budget management

Youth development experience

Education

Bachelor's degree in Education or related field

Master’s degree preferred

Job description

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Free uniforms
• Training & development

COMPASS After-School Program Director — Job Description

The COMPASS After-School Program Director is the on-site leader responsible for full implementation, management, and oversight of the COMPASS program, which serves middle or elementary school students in NYC through extended-day, after-school, and summer programming.

Program Overview

COMPASS is a youth development initiative offering hands‑on STEAM learning, leadership development, wellness activities, and creative exploration. The program fosters student agency, collaboration, and social-emotional growth in inclusive environments that support diverse learning needs. It integrates project‑based learning, advisory structures, community partnerships, and career‑connected experiences to build confidence, technical skills, and a strong sense of belonging.

Key Responsibilities

• Program Leadership & Management: Plan, implement, and evaluate high‑quality academic, enrichment, recreation, STEM, arts, wellness, and social‑emotional learning activities. Establish and monitor program goals, outcomes, and performance metrics.
• Staff Supervision & Development: Recruit, hire, onboard, train, supervise, and evaluate program staff (Group Leaders, Activity Specialists, Youth Assistants). Approve schedules, timesheets, and payroll. Provide coaching, professional development, and guidance on classroom management and lesson planning.
• Compliance & Safety: Ensure adherence to DYCD and School‑Age Child Care (SACC) regulations, maintain safe and compliant program environments, and manage program records and reporting.
• Fiscal & Resource Management: Assist with monitoring program budgets and expenditures, ensure responsible use of program resources and equipment, support inventory management and purchasing processes, monitor staffing allocations and operational needs.
• Partnership & Communication: Serve as the bridge between the program, partner schools, and community stakeholders. Build and maintain relationships with school administrators, parents, and community partners.
• Curriculum & Activity Design: Develop and manage STEM activities, creative/performing arts, sports, tutoring, and enrichment workshops. Incorporate social‑emotional learning (SEL) and culturally responsive pedagogy.
• Marketing & Fundraising: Promote the program to target communities and schools; participate in grant writing and fundraising as needed.
• Required Certifications and Clearances: Background check, mandated reporter training, CPR/First Aid Certification, completion of all required DYVD trainings, additional clearances as required by DYCD and organizational policies.
• Special Projects: Manage quarterly theme team projects, host parent meetings, and recruit voucher families.

Reporting & Location

Reports to: School Partnerships Director or Director of Youth Services, depending on the organization.

Location: On‑site at 263 West 153rd Street, New York NY 10039.

Schedule: Typically, Monday–Friday, 1:00 PM –6:00 PM, with evenings and weekends as needed.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Education or related field; Master’s degree preferred.
• Experience: Minimum of three (3) years of experience in youth development, education, recreation, or community‑based programming. Proven experience in after‑school program management and working with diverse urban youth.
• Skills: Strong organizational, communication, and relationship‑building abilities; familiarity with DYCD/SACC requirements; ability to manage budgets and multiple tasks in a fast‑paced environment.