Associate Program Director

ABOUT THE POSITION: At Playworks Michigan, we are strengthening how we deliver high-quality, consistent programming that supports students and the adults who serve them every day. We are seeking a strong internal leader to drive program quality, develop staff, and ensure excellence across all partner sites. This is a high-impact role for someone who leads with clarity, builds accountability, and is committed to continuous improvement. This role carries primary ownership of program quality and delivery across the region, with strategic support from the Associate Director.

As the Associate Program Director, you will lead the execution and management of Playworks’ comprehensive school-based play and youth development programming. You are responsible for overseeing program quality, staff performance, training, and development of program staff, and ensuring consistent, high-quality implementation of Playworks services across partner sites. This is a full-time, exempt position that reports directly to the Associate Director.

Specifically, you will

Drive Program Quality and Consistency Across all Partner Sites

• Lead staff performance management, coaching, and development
• Ensure strong implementation of TeamUp and training models
• Establish clear expectations for program delivery and staff accountability
• Lead ongoing observation, feedback, and continuous improvement cycles
• Build staff capacity to operate independently and consistently across sites

Management Responsibilities

• Direct supervision of Program Specialists and Site Coordinators
• Lead onboarding, training, and ongoing development of program staff
• Oversee performance management and staff accountability systems
• Participate in the hiring of program staff
• Support the implementation of staff development and recognition efforts

Program Oversight and Performance

• Oversee implementation of Playworks programming and consultation services at partner sites
• Conduct regular program observations and data reviews to ensure high-quality delivery
• Own program metrics, outcomes, and continuous improvement efforts across the region
• Use data to inform decisions, identify trends, and drive staff accountability
• Ensure a strong, consistent partner experience across all school sites
• Address program challenges and support school partnerships as needed
• Lead administrative program management tasks (data collection, reporting, etc.)
• Represent Playworks in community and partner-facing settings as needed
• Develop and refine systems, processes, and tools to improve program delivery and consistency

Success in This Role Requires

• Demonstrated ability to manage and develop adult staff, including setting clear expectations and holding accountability
• Ability to drive consistent, high-quality program implementation across multiple sites
• Experience using data, observation, and feedback to improve performance and outcomes
• Strong organizational and prioritization skills in a dynamic, fast-paced environment
• Ability to build systems and processes that support consistency and sustainability
• Comfort operating in a lean structure with a high level of ownership and responsibility
• Professionalism and ability to represent Playworks effectively with school and community partners

Required Skills & Experience

• 5+ years of successful supervisory and management experience (managing adults preferred)
• Proven ability to develop and maintain collaborative relationships internally and externally
• Demonstrated experience with staff coaching, performance management, and accountability
• Strong computer skills, including the Google Suite and Salesforce
• Ability to thrive working both independently and within team settings

LOCATION & TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

Location: This role is based in Southeast Michigan and requires consistent in-person engagement with school, district, and community partners.

Travel: This role includes periodic travel across Michigan and Ohio to support school, district, and partner engagement. Travel may include occasional day trips and limited overnight travel based on partnership and regional needs.

Compensation & Benefits

Playworks offers the full package - great benefits, a fun place to work and an opportunity to grow professionally.

• This is a full-time, exempt position based in Southeast Michigan reporting to the Associate Director.
• At Playworks, our starting salary takes into consideration internal pay scales, geographic pay differential, and robust external market data. We highly value transparency in compensation and are therefore committed to adhering to established compensation pay points. The starting salary for this position is $71,200.
• A comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, disability, 401(k) plans with employer match of up to 1% of salary, life insurance, employee-funded pre-tax health, and child care spending accounts.
• Generous Flex PTO policy, paid sick and holiday leave.

This is a hands-on, creative, playful, and fun-loving place to work, all while contributing to the success of our nation’s youth. So if you're ready to immerse yourself in the education sector, working on a rewarding set of challenges, and if you've got the skills, experience, passion, and a team spirit, apply!

Please Include

• A cover letter describing your interest in Playworks and how your experience has prepared you for this role.
• Resume.
• References will be requested.

ABOUT PLAYWORKS: At Playworks, we believe in the power of play to bring out the best in every kid. We create a place for every kid on the playground to get active, build valuable skills, connect, and have fun. We partner with schools, districts, and after-school programs to provide a service or mix of services, including on-site coaches, professional training for school staff who support recess, and consultative partnerships.

As an equal opportunity program, Playworks encourages applications from all individuals regardless of age, gender, gender identity/expression, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion, faith, marital status, physical ability, or any other legally protected basis. Playworks evaluates all candidates for employment, volunteering opportunities, or board service on a merit basis.