Position Summary
The Director of Workforce Development is responsible for the strategic oversight, operational leadership, and continuous development of the Workforce Development program at Easterseals Lonestar. This role oversees all aspects of employment-based training programs for individuals with disabilities and barriers to employment, including program development, compliance, budgeting, contract management, staff supervision, and external stakeholder engagement. The Director ensures that services align with organizational goals, funder expectations, and community workforce needs.
Responsibilities
Program Oversight & Strategic Leadership
Lead and manage program operations, including janitorial, landscaping, and warehouse work crews. Design and implement short- and long-term strategies that support employment outcomes for individuals with disabilities and other barriers to work. Monitor, evaluate, and adjust programming based on performance metrics, community needs, and funding priorities.Contract and Partner Management
Serve as primary liaison with funding partners (e.g., WorkQuest, state and local agencies) to maintain contract compliance and performance standards. Negotiate, implement, and monitor service contracts and job site agreements with public and private entities. Lead efforts to explore and secure new work sites and employment contracts for expansion of employment opportunities.Fiscal and Administrative Oversight
Develop and manage program budgets, ensuring fiscal accountability and alignment with grant or contract requirements. Approve program expenditures, monitor billing cycles, and oversee timely submission of invoices and reimbursement documentation. Ensure proper recordkeeping, data tracking, and compliance with internal procedures and funder regulations.Team and Staff Supervision
Recruit, supervise, train, and evaluate program staff, including program manager, crew supervisors, and crew members. Support staff development and ensure consistent adherence to safety and performance standards across all work crews. Promote a positive team culture that supports growth, accountability, and client-centered practices.Participant Support and Outcomes
Oversee participant intake, placement, and performance tracking across work crews. Track outcomes related to work attendance, skill acquisition, wages earned, and transitions to competitive employment when applicable.Community Engagement and Representation
Build and maintain relationships with community partners, employers, funders, and stakeholders to enhance program visibility and collaboration. Represent Easterseals Lonestar at workforce boards, vendor fairs, and partner meetings. Advocate for inclusive employment practices and workforce development initiatives regionally.Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree or 7 years of related work experience. Minimum five years of progressively responsible experience in workforce development, employment services, or nonprofit management. At least three years of supervisory experience, preferably in a social enterprise or vocational training setting. Knowledge of disability services, WorkQuest/CRP systems, and federal or state employment funding streams (e.g., TWC, WIOA). Strong organizational, analytical, and communication skills. Demonstrated experience in developing programs, managing contracts, budgets, and program performance metrics.Preferred Qualifications
Experience with government grant compliance, business development, or social enterprise operations. Bilingual in English/Spanish.