Associate Program Director

Playworks is the leading national nonprofit leveraging the power of play to bring out the best in every kid. Learn about the energetic, creative people working to ensure every kid has the chance to play—every day.MI Playworks Associate Program DirectorABOUT 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.CORE FOCUS OF THE ROLEDrive program quality and consistency across all partner sitesLead staff performance management, coaching, and developmentEnsure strong implementation of TeamUp and training modelsEstablish clear expectations for program delivery and staff accountabilityLead ongoing observation, feedback, and continuous improvement cyclesBuild staff capacity to operate independently and consistently across sitesManagement ResponsibilitiesDirect supervision of Program Specialists and Site CoordinatorsLead onboarding, training, and ongoing development of program staffOversee performance management and staff accountability systemsParticipate in the hiring of program staffSupport the implementation of staff development and recognition effortsPROGRAM OVERSIGHT & PERFORMANCEOversee implementation of Playworks programming and consultation services at partner sitesConduct regular program observations and data reviews to ensure high-quality deliveryOwn program metrics, outcomes, and continuous improvement efforts across the regionUse data to inform decisions, identify trends, and drive staff accountabilityEnsure a strong, consistent partner experience across all school sitesAddress program challenges and support school partnerships as neededLead administrative program management tasks (data collection, reporting, etc.)Represent Playworks in community and partner-facing settings as neededDevelop and refine systems, processes, and tools to improve program delivery and consistencySUCCESS IN THIS ROLEDemonstrated ability to manage and develop adult staff, including setting clear expectations and holding accountabilityAbility to drive consistent, high-quality program implementation across multiple sitesExperience using data, observation, and feedback to improve performance and outcomesStrong organizational and prioritization skills in a dynamic, fast-paced environmentAbility to build systems and processes that support consistency and sustainabilityComfort operating in a lean structure with a high level of ownership and responsibilityProfessionalism and ability to represent Playworks effectively with school and community partnersRequired Skills & Experience5+ years of successful supervisory and management experience (managing adults preferred)Proven ability to develop and maintain collaborative relationships internally and externallyDemonstrated experience with staff coaching, performance management, and accountabilityStrong computer skills, including the Google Suite and SalesforceAbility to thrive working both independently and within team settingsLOCATION & TRAVEL REQUIREMENTSLocation Requirement:This position must be based in Southeast Michigan and requires consistent in-person engagement with school, district, and community partners.Travel RequirementThis 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 & BenefitsPlayworks offers a competitive compensation package and a comprehensive set of benefits designed to support our team.Salary: $71,200 annuallyComprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance401(k) with employer contributionFlexible paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidaysThis is a full-time, exempt position based in Southeast Michigan.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.Apply