Program Manager, Early Work Experiences

Reports to: Laurie Ackles, Executive Director

Location: Seattle, WA

Are you passionate about making a real difference in the lives of teens and young adults? Do you thrive on innovation and have a knack for empowering youth? Do you enjoy developing and running programs that inspire? If so, we have the perfect opportunity for you!

About Us

Founded in 2023 and based in the greater Seattle, WA region, the Washington Neurodiversity Project (WNP) is a private foundation with a simple yet powerful mission: to enhance career pathways and employment outcomes for neurodivergent teens and adults.

Neurodiversity acknowledges that differences in brain function are part of natural human variation and emphasizes the strengths of neurodistinct individuals to boost societal innovation and productivity. Improving employment opportunities for neurodivergent learners produces tremendous benefits for companies, public agencies and nonprofits, while providing purpose, self-efficacy and independence for extraordinary people.

At WNP, we aspire to make the Evergreen State a leading region for building inclusive and empowering opportunities for neurodistinct individuals, unlocking their full potential in the workforce.

As a Program Manager at the Washington Neurodiversity Project, you'll be at the forefront of a transformative mission, leading programming that paves the way for meaningful employment opportunities for neurodistinct youth. You'll work closely with the Foundation’s Executive Director and Founders to design, refine, and execute initiatives that make a tangible impact.

What You'll Do

• Program Development: Lead the design, development and operations of our Summer Work Experience program, our Partner Work Experience program, and all new opportunities related to early work experiences.
• Relationship Building: Partner with local employers and community organizations to advocate for neuroinclusive work experiences and career exploration opportunities for WA state youth.
• Collaboration: Collaborate with local school districts and service providers to build a pipeline of neurodivergent youth to be matched with opportunities.
• Advocacy: Serve as a passionate advocate for neuroinclusive employment, raising awareness and championing inclusion in the workforce.
• Leadership: Support the Foundation’s Executive Director in determining strategy, programming, and activities that align with our mission and vision for expanding employment opportunities for neurodistinct teens and young adults.
• Support: Provide individualized guidance and coaching to prepare youth in navigating successful work experiences. This includes supervising a rotating group of coaches.
• Education and Training: Act as a point of contact for a growing list of employer partners, offering guidance and assistance to managers and staff on neuroinclusive best practices. This includes partnering with neuroinclusion specialists working with WNP in a consulting capacity.
• Join the Mission: Become part of a small but mighty team, contributing input and energy to all of our initiatives.

What You Bring:

• Passion: A genuine passion for our mission and a commitment to driving meaningful change in the lives of neurodivergent teens and adults.
• Innovation: A creative and innovative mindset, with a track record of developing and running successful programs or initiatives.
• Leadership: Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire, motivate, and empower others to achieve shared goals. Comfort recruiting and collaborating with employers and partners.
• Organization: This is an operational role requiring excellent planning and organizational skills.
• Collaboration: Exceptional collaboration and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively across teams and stakeholders.
• Adaptability: Flexibility and adaptability to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment with evolving priorities.

We encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply. We welcome candidates who identify as neurodivergent, and we embrace inclusive hiring practices and equitable working environments.

Ready to Make a Difference? If you're ready to roll up your sleeves and be part of something truly transformative, we want to hear from you!