Program Manager / Operations Manager
Program Manager / Operations ManagerLocation: New Jersey 07041 (On-site; office may relocate to New York)Organization: China Labor WatchApplication Deadline: May 15, 2026. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and the position may be filled before the deadline.About UsChina Labor Watch is a New York-based nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing labor rights in global supply chains through independent investigations, policy advocacy, and media engagement.Our work spans China, Southeast Asia, and Europe. We collaborate with U.S. enforcement agencies, European regulatory bodies, and international media to drive meaningful impact in human rights and supply chain accountability.Position OverviewWe are seeking a highly capable and execution-oriented Program Manager to support the implementation of multiple international projects.This is a core role within the organization. You will work closely with the Executive Director to drive projects forward, coordinate across teams, and ensure that key priorities are executed effectively.This role is best suited for individuals who are proactive, detail-oriented, and comfortable taking ownership in a fast-paced and evolving environment. You will have direct visibility into organizational priorities and the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to projects with international impact.Project EnvironmentChina Labor Watch currently operates with an annual budget of approximately $1 million and manages several long-term projects alongside shorter-term initiatives.The work environment includes:Managing multiple projects simultaneouslyWorking with a small project team of approximately five staff members, along with consultants and part-time contributorsEngaging across investigations, report writing, and policy-related workOperating in a dynamic environment with continuously evolving informationCoordinating both internal teams and external stakeholdersSuccess in this role requires strong prioritization skills, the ability to maintain momentum, and the capacity to bring structure to complex workflows.Reporting LineReports directly to the Executive DirectorWorks closely with internal team members and external partnersKey Responsibilities1. Project Management & ExecutionManage and advance multiple projects, including investigations, reports, and policy-related workDevelop and maintain project timelinesDefine priorities and track task executionSupport monitoring and evaluation (M&E) processesIdentify challenges proactively and propose solutions to ensure smooth project delivery2. Progress Tracking & CoordinationEstablish and maintain project management systems (e.g., Notion, Airtable, Asana)Track progress of team members and external collaboratorsEnsure alignment on timelines and deliverablesMaintain consistent follow-through and execution3. Operations & Administrative SupportSupport the Executive Director in daily operations and priority managementCoordinate meetings, travel arrangements, and internal communicationsEnsure smooth internal information flow4. Reporting & DocumentationAssist in preparing donor reports Organize and edit research materials and internal documentationSupport policy communications and media-related preparation5. Grant Applications & Project RenewalResearch new funding opportunitiesDraft grant proposals and collaborate with stakeholders to define project goalsSupport administrative processes for project renewals6. Stakeholder Management & CommunicationParticipate in and help facilitate meetings with government agencies, media, and civil society organizationsRepresent the organization in relevant engagements when appropriateSupport the organization of annual board meetingsWork Style & ToolsThis role requires a structured, tools-driven approach:Ability to organize and manage multiple projects using digital toolsFamiliarity with project management platformsExperience using AI tools for research, analysis, or content support is preferredAbility to review, verify, and refine AI-generated outputsQualificationsRequired3–7 years of relevant experience (nonprofit, consulting, research, legal, or policy fields)Excellent bilingual communication skills in English and Chinese (written and verbal), with the ability to write and communicate in professional, policy, or research contextsStrong ability to work independentlyExcellent organizational and time management skillsAvailability to attend meetings outside regular working hours when necessaryWillingness to travel domestically and internationally on occasionAbility to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectivelyPreferredExperience in labor rights, human rights, supply chains, or ESGFamiliarity with U.S. or EU policy and advocacy frameworksExperience working on international projectsChinese language proficiency (required)What We ValueWe are looking for candidates who:Take ownership and consistently drive work forwardCommunicate clearly and collaborate effectivelyDemonstrate sound judgment in complex situationsAre motivated by impact and a strong sense of responsibilityAdditional InformationPosition TypeThis is an exempt position, with a focus on outcomes and deliverables. Working hours may vary based on project needs.Work EnvironmentSome projects involve sensitive labor issues in complex environments. Candidates must be able to handle information responsibly and maintain professional communication.(This role does not involve fieldwork in high-risk locations.)Compensation & BenefitsSalary: $70,000 – $100,000 (commensurate with experience)Health insurance (medical and dental)401(k) retirement plan11 public holidays per year10 days of paid annual leave5 days of paid sick leaveUp to 4 weeks of unpaid leave (subject to approval)Opportunity to work on projects with international impactCollaborative and mission-driven team environmentHow to ApplyIf you meet around 70% of the qualifications, we strongly encourage you to apply.Please send your resume and a brief cover letter (both in English and Chinese are required) to:Amelia@chinalaborwatch.orgSubject Line:Program Manager Application