Program Director - Mott Haven Community Center

East-Side-House-Settlement; New York (NY); On-site; USD 55,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

East Side House Settlement seeks a Program Director to lead the Early Childhood Education & Elementary Division at the Mott Haven Community Center. You will oversee daily operations, staff supervision, compliance, and the delivery of age-appropriate programs that support academics, recreation, workforce readiness, and cultural enrichment.

The role requires collaboration with NYCHA, DYCD, schools and community partners; you will manage budgets, plan events, ensure safety, and promote inclusive,

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree and 2 years field experience.
• Experience with budget management, compliance, and structured youth programming.
• Knowledge of Bronx communities; NYCHA or DYCD program experience strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and day-to-day oversight of youth and adult programs, including evenings, weekends, and summer.
• Recruit, hire, schedule, onboard, and supervise staff.
• Monitor performance and ensure compliance with DYCD goals, quality standards, and contractual requirements.
• Conduct staff evaluations, provide ongoing coaching, and lead monthly professional development and team meetings.
• Oversee the design and delivery of engaging, age-appropriate programming focused on academics, recreation, workforce readiness, and cultural enrichment.
• Train staff on safety protocols and ensure emergency preparedness.
• Track attendance and maintain accurate records using DYCD Connect and internal systems.
• Manage CACFP Food Program compliance and documentation.

Skills

Project Management

Problem Solving

Community Engagement

Participant Focus

Team Leadership

Analytical Thinking

Organizational Skills

Communication

Cultural Humility

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

DYCD Connect

Job description

Position Title: Program DirectorDepartment: Early Childhood Education & Elementary DivisionSite/Location: Mott Haven Community CenterFLSA Classification: Non-Exempt / Full TimeSalary Range: $55,000 - $65,000Reports To: Senior Director and/or Department DirectorMISSION STATEMENTEast Side House cares for the individuals, families, and communities we serve by expanding opportunities for them to live more fulfilling lives through education, career development, and supportive services.JOB DESCRIPTIONSummary/ ObjectiveEast Side House (ESH) provides high-quality, year-round programming in NYCHA community centers and public schools, serving youth and families through education, workforce readiness, recreation, and community engagement.Reporting to the Senior and/or Department Director, the Program Director oversees the development, implementation, and supervision of Early Childhood Education & Elementary Division. This includes daily operations, staff management, compliance, and creating safe, inclusive, and responsive environments that promote positive outcomes.As a member of the Early Childhood Education & Elementary Division, the Program Director is expected to lead dynamic, age-appropriate programming for Elementary age participants and community members. This role includes direct supervision of the Assistant Program Director, Group Leaders, Activity Specialist, and other frontline staff. It requires regular collaboration with Human Resources, Finance, IT, and other East Side House departments.Essential Functions and Responsibilities:Under the supervision of the Senior Director and /or Department Director, the Program Director will:Provide strategic leadership and day-to-day oversight of youth and adult programs, including evenings, weekends, and summer.Recruit, hire, schedule, onboard, and supervise full-time and part-time staff.Monitor performance and ensure compliance with DYCD goals, quality standards, and contractual requirements.Conduct staff evaluations, provide ongoing coaching, and lead monthly professional development and team meetings.Oversee the design and delivery of engaging, age-appropriate programming focused on academics, recreation, workforce readiness, and cultural enrichment.Ensure compliance with DOH School-Aged Child Care and Summer Day regulations, including quarterly inspections.Train staff on safety protocols and ensure emergency preparedness.Track attendance and maintain accurate records using DYCD Connect and internal systems.Manage CACFP Food Program compliance and documentation.Serve as the main point of contact for NYCHA, DYCD, schools, families, and community partners.Build relationships with residents, tenant associations, youth councils, and community stakeholders.Conduct quarterly community assessments and incorporate participant feedback into program planning.Plan and execute four community events and a series of family workshops annually.Cultivate at least three new partnerships each year to expand program offerings.Manage the program budget, process purchase orders, and submit reports on time.Represent the program in required meetings and maintain regular communication with NYCHA and DYCD.Collaborate with ESH colleagues to coordinate events, share best practices, and support agency-wide initiatives.Perform other duties as assigned.Other DutiesPlease note that this job description is not intended to be a comprehensive listing of all activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee in this role. Duties, obligations, and activities are subject to change at any time, with or without notice.QualificationsTo perform this position successfully, the program director must fulfill all the elements of the job description to the highest standard and work well with colleagues in a high-energy, collaborative work environment. Additional qualifications include:Education & ExperienceBachelor’s degree 2 years experience in fieldExperience with budget management, compliance, and structured youth or intergenerational programming.Knowledge of Bronx communities and local resources; NYCHA or DYCD program experience strongly preferredSkills & CompetenciesProject Management: Manages programs, events, and schedules effectively.Problem Solving: Applies sound judgment and youth-centered solutions.Community Engagement: Builds partnerships with families, residents, and stakeholders.Participant Focus: Designs responsive, inclusive, and community-aligned programming.Team Leadership: Coaches staff, builds team culture, and promotes professional growth.Analytical Thinking: Uses data and feedback to drive program improvements.Organizational Skills: Excels in documentation, budgeting, and managing priorities.Communication: Strong written, verbal, and public speaking skills.Cultural Humility: Leads with equity and respect for diverse communities.ClearanceEmployees must be clear to work at ESH. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of background checks and/or screenings.Supervisory ResponsibilityN/A ORThis position is responsible for supervising and managing the performance of all designated employees assigned to the position within the department.Physical DemandsThis role may involve occasional lifting or moving of items up to 25 pounds and routine use of standard office equipment. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.Expected Work ScheduleThe typical work schedule for this position includes the following:COMPASS Programs: Monday through Friday, between 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM, aligned with school-based programming needs.Cornerstone Programs: Weekday evening shifts (typically 3:00 PM-11:00 PM, with potential for Saturday and Sunday shifts, based on site-specific programming).Sunday programming may be required based on seasonal activities or community events.As aligned with the needs of the program/service. The schedule may be adjusted based on ESH’s operational needs, with notice provided whenever possible.EEO StatementEast Side House (ESH) is an Equal Opportunity Employer and strongly encourages individuals with disabilities and veterans to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.