We're Hiring! Program Manager Position

Our current Program Manager is transitioning to a specialized role within the organization, creating an opportunity for an enthusiastic, organized, and compassionate Program Manager to lead our program team. This role is central to ensuring that Open Sky's programs are safe, engaging, person-centered, and responsive to the evolving needs of our participants and the wider community.

The Program Manager is responsible for leading the development, delivery, and continuous improvement of relevant, safe, meaningful, and engaging programs for neurodivergent adults at Open Sky Co-operative. 

Working collaboratively with program staff, the management team, families, and external partners, the Program Manager oversees day-to-day operations and leads long-term program planning. There are currently 18 participants and 12 staff on our program team.  

This role ensures that all programming remains participant-centered, farm-based, and community-oriented, and supports individuals’ personal growth, well-being, and community integration.

Key Responsibilities (What you will do)

Participant Support

• Oversee inquiries, intake processes, assessments, and admission of new participants.
• Communicate regularly with families, caregivers, and circles of support.
• Identify initial participant goals and needs, guide onboarding and staffing plans.
• Monitor ongoing changes in participant needs and collaborate with staff to set priorities.
• Support participants in navigating challenges related to conflict, relationships, behaviour, living situations, or employment.
• Ensure that program plans balance work, skill-building, therapeutic, recreational, and community-based activities.
• Liaise with Social Development (NB & NS) to advocate for participant needs and ensure compliance.

Program Management & Development

• Work with staff to assess program needs and establish seasonal goals.
• Design, implement, and evaluate farm and community-based programs tailored to participant strengths and learning styles.
• Maintain systems for data collection, record-keeping, and progress reporting.
• Ensure staff have the tools, resources, and materials required for quality programming.
• Monitor community needs and trends; explore opportunities for program expansion or adaptation.
• Develop new program elements and assist in securing funding to support innovation.
• Serve as our primary Services Coordinator relating to Social Development NB and NS, coordinating services, expectations, and required documentation.

Leadership & Supervision

• Recruit, hire, onboard, and train program staff (coordinators, mentors, interns, summer staff).
• Provide consistent supervision, coaching, and feedback, including role clarity, performance expectations, peer support processes.
• Conduct regular team meetings and individual check-ins.
• Oversee scheduling, mentor-participant matching, and workflow planning and approaches that meet participant needs.
• Ensure team alignment with organizational policy, best practices, and program priorities.
• Identify needs and support staff in developing competencies and accessing professional development.
• Communicate new policies, procedures, and program updates to ensure staff alignment and consistency.

Budget & Resource Management

• Prepare timely billing and reporting documents each month.
• Assess and communicate program budget needs.
• Monitor spending and ensure programs remain within approved budgets.
• Identify and recommend resources to enhance program delivery.

Community Engagement & Employment Development

• Identify emerging program or partnership opportunities that support participant goals.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with community partners, service agencies, and local groups.
• Encourage and support initiatives that foster community connections for participants.
• Oversee employment development initiatives, including: 
  • Developing and sustaining relationships with local employers to create and support job opportunities for participants.
  • Supporting participants and alumni in launching and sustaining micro-businesses.
  • Supporting existing and new social enterprises involving participants.
  • Assisting in the development of new participant-led enterprises.

Qualifications (What you will bring)

Education

• Post-secondary education in social work, psychology, disability studies, adult education, therapeutic recreation, agriculture-related programming, or a related field.
• Equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered.

Experience

• 3–5 years of experience working with neurodivergent adults or individuals with diverse support needs.
• Experience in program design, delivery, and evaluation.
• Experience supervising staff, leading teams, or co-ordinating volunteers.
• Experience working with Social Development NB/NS (an asset).
• Experience with case coordination, individualized support planning, or data tracking.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong understanding of neurodiversity-affirming, trauma-informed, and person-centered practices.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to build positive relationships with participants, families, staff, and external partners.
• Strong organizational skills, including documentation, scheduling, and reporting.
• Able to manage multiple priorities within a dynamic environment and seasonal program cycles.
• Problem-solving skills and the ability to respond constructively to challenges involving participants’ behaviour, relationships, or life circumstances.
• Capacity to work collaboratively in a farm-based environment that includes outdoor work, hands-on activities, and community engagement.
• Ability to support, coach, and develop staff in a positive and professional manner.
• Comfort with basic budgeting and resource management.
• Valid driver’s license and access to reliable transportation (an asset depending on location).
• First Aid/CPR certification, trauma-informed training, Mental Health First Aid (or willingness to obtain).

Compensation & Working Conditions

• Hourly wage $26-$28/hour
• 35-40 hours per week
• Work environment includes indoor office tasks, outdoor farm activities, and community engagement.
• Occasional evening or weekend hours may be required for events or program needs.