Upward Scholars is looking for a proactive and creative Programs Manager to oversee academic and financial programs, supporting the organization’s mission to empower students in their pursuit of economic advancement. The role involves managing program staff, coordinating training, responding to student inquiries to assess their needs, and directing various program pillars such as financial and academic support. The Programs Manager will also advocate for students, facilitate community communication, and organize events for students and donors, all while fostering a culture of equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging within the organization.

About Upward Scholars

Upward Scholars is committed to empowering immigrants in their journey toward higher education and full integration into U.S. society. Recognizing that education and community are vital for personal and economic advancement, we work to support students as they navigate the challenges of financial, academic, and career development. Our mission is to break down barriers that prevent individuals from achieving their educational and professional goals. Through tailored support, mentorship, and resources, we help enhance economic mobility and foster civic engagement among our students. Together, we create a pathway to success, helping immigrants build brighter futures in their new homeland

Qualifications

Experience networking—developing and sustaining relationships and partnerships.
Excellent program, staff, and event management skills.
Quick learner and creative problem solver.
Excellent written and verbal presentation and communication skills.
Excellent organizational and time management skills.
Experience using Microsoft Office/Google Suite or similar software and Mac hardware knowledgeable.
Sensitivity to the challenges faced by under-served populations.
Experience working collaboratively and successfully with people and organizations from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds, ideological positions, and religious views.
Bilingual in English and at least one other language spoken by a majority of program participants, e.g., Spanish.
Work under general supervision, exercising significant independent judgment.
Bachelor’s degree and 3-5 years of job-related experience.

Responsibilities

Supervisory Responsibilities
- Manages and supervises the programs and staff who report directly to this position.
- Helps recruit and hire program staff and conducts performance evaluations.
- Coordinates training programs for new staff and identifies training needs for current staff.
- Helps recruit, train, and manage volunteers across assigned program areas.
Respond to student inquiries and assess their goals, needs, and achievements to determine which programs, services, and courses will enable them to earn a sustainable wage, move up the economic ladder, inspire multi-generational change, and break the cycle of poverty.
Manage two or more program pillars (e.g., financial support, academic support) and administer program implementation, including program evaluation.
Directs the execution of new and existing programs, specifically the Tutoring/Mentoring Program, English Conversation Club, and convenes the Tutor/Mentor Council.
Advocates for our students to ensure they are considered for opportunities that utilize their skills and strengths.
Facilitates communication between students and community members.
Plans, coordinates, and participates in events for students, donors, and the community with the team.
Performs a variety of skilled administrative and clerical duties directly related to program activities; these include email communications with students and partners, assisting and participating in special events, developing effective working relationships with the team, partners, volunteers, government agencies, other community-based organization (CBO) representatives, and others to nurture their connection to the organization.
Provides content ideas for eNews (e.g., newsletters, social media channels), the website, and presentations to support program awareness, student recruitment and retention, and fundraising.
Performs other related duties as necessary or assigned.

COmpensation and Benefits

This is a Full-Time temporary 6-month position with the opportunity to extend into a permanent role. The salary is commensurate with experience and within the $65K-$88K range. This job requires onsite/community-based work. This position has excellent health, dental, and vision benefits, paid holidays, vacation days, and sick days. Candidates from beyond the San Francisco Bay Area are encouraged to apply, but funds are unavailable for relocation or housing assistance.