Program Manager
Foster Nation is seeking a dedicated professional to lead the design, implementation, and rapid expansion of our core programs and empowerment initiatives. At Foster Nation, we believe that no one should be held back by the circumstances they were born into. Our mission is to empower foster youth to become self-sufficient adults through transformative mentorship and essential resources that help them lead their best lives after foster care.
We are looking for a mission-driven leader with a Master of Social Work (MSW) who is eager to take full ownership of the Sparks mentorship program. The ideal candidate will help navigate our organization through a nimble, high-growth phase of expansion while ensuring every youth we serve feels they belong, they matter, and they are not alone.
About the Role
The Program Manager is responsible for the strategic development and operational management of Foster Nation’s programs. This role transitions beyond just traditional social work into programmatic architecture, requiring a leader who can manage high-level guidance, decision-making, and escalated crisis intervention while simultaneously designing scalable systems for growth.
Aligned with our core values of intentionality and curiosity, this position is ideal for a professional looking to build a long-term career by iterating on our models to better serve the changing needs of youth.
Key Responsibilities
Program Design & Growth: Lead the scaling efforts for the Sparks mentorship program, ensuring the curriculum remains impactful and individualized as the participant base grows.
Clinical Oversight & Case Management: Oversee program implementation and case management services for 100+ youth, providing crisis intervention while leading with empathy and dignity.
Stakeholder Engagement: Support program related partnerships with community stakeholders, government entities (DCFS, LACOE, LAUSD).
Team Management: Supervise program staff, fostering a culture of professional development, accountability, and entrepreneurial spirit.
Data-Driven Impact: Utilize Salesforce to track program outcomes. As a data-driven organization, we value using real-time evidence to reflect and evaluate the efficacy of our services.
Resource Development: Support the grant process by providing programmatic data and qualitative storytelling that humanizes our work and highlights the "power of one spark".
Qualifications & Requirements
We seek a highly motivated individual prepared for a long-term commitment to our mission of leveling the playing field for foster youth.
Education: Master of Social Work (MSW) degree is required for this role.
Mission Alignment: A deep commitment to our guiding principles: treating people with dignity, staying curious, and striving for excellence in every scenario.
Experience: Background in child welfare systems, nonprofit operations, or lived experience in foster care.
Knowledge: Understanding of the systemic barriers facing foster youth, including homelessness and mental health, and a desire to "change the statistics".
Leadership: Demonstrated ability to take initiative, manage multiple assignments, and maintain a bias for action.
Communication: Exceptional interpersonal skills; must be able to communicate in a way that is relatable, genuine, and inclusive.
Technical Skills: Proficiency in Google Suite (or similar applications, i.e. Microsoft Office) and experience with data tracking tools (Salesforce preferred).
Travel: Access to transportation for travel throughout LA County (10-15%) for site visits and events.
Compensation & Work Environment
Salary Range: $80,000–$85,000 (salaried, exempt) with eligibility for a performance bonus.
Health Benefits: We provide a dedicated insurance stipend designed to fully cover the cost of an average health insurance plan.
Paid Time Off: 30 total days of PTO annually (14 paid holidays, 10 PTO days, and 6 sick days).
Work Setting: Hybrid role based in Los Angeles County, requiring in-person participation 3-4 times per month. This includes program events and team workdays. This role is full-time with room for flexibility, and occasional weekend/after-hours events will be required.
