Program Manager

Program Manager Job Description

About Mission Scholars

Located in Santa Barbara, Mission Scholars supports 200 high-achieving, low-income students who aspire to be the first in their families to graduate from college. We empower these Scholars to realize their full potential by providing comprehensive college admissions guidance, dedicated college mentorship, and career development training that opens doors to lasting opportunity. Our Scholars are thriving: 93% are enrolled in four-year universities, with more than 85% of their educational costs covered by grants and scholarships.

As we enter our eighth year in 2026, Mission Scholars is in an exciting phase of growth. We are a collaborative, mission-driven team deeply committed to students, families, and equity in higher education—and we are looking for a thoughtful, organized, and people-centered Program Manager to join us.

Position Summary

Mission Scholars is seeking a strategic and enthusiastic Program Manager to lead and strengthen our high school college preparation and admissions programming. This full-time, hybrid role focuses on people management, program quality, and strategic coordination.

The Program Manager supervises Program Coordinators and works closely with senior leadership to ensure consistent, high-quality delivery of college access services across all sites. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys coaching staff, building systems, and improving programs that directly impact student success.

Schedule & Location

• Full-time, exempt

• Hybrid: 2 days per week in-office in Santa Barbara (with flexibility)

Key Priorities

1. Team Leadership & Program Quality (Primary Focus)

• Supervise, coach, and support Program Coordinators and volunteers to ensure strong, consistent Scholar support.
• Set clear expectations, workflows, and priorities for the College Access team.
• Lead onboarding and training for new program staff.
• Support staff in facilitating workshops and presentations; provide guidance and feedback on public speaking and facilitation.

2. Program Coordination & Strategy

• Oversee the annual College Access Program calendar, including workshops, key milestones, and student touchpoints.
• Partner with senior leadership to refine program goals, systems, and student support models.

3. Recruitment & Onboarding (Seasonal)

• Manage recruitment efforts for new high school Scholars.
• Oversee application review processes and onboarding activities.
• Represent Mission Scholars at school visits, information sessions, and community events.

4. Data, Evaluation, & Reporting Management

• Oversee systems for tracking Scholar participation, progress, and outcomes.
• Prepare clear, actionable reports for senior leadership to inform continuous improvement.

5. Student and Community Partnership Oversight

• Supervise and coach program staff as they deliver individualized student guidance and support to help students navigate postsecondary pathways.
• Foster strong relationships with families, schools, and community partners to enhance Scholar engagement and success.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree
• At least two years of leadership experience in program coordination, education, or youth-serving nonprofits
• Demonstrated experience supervising or mentoring staff
• Strong organizational, communication, and relationship-building skills
• Commitment to college access and success for first-generation, low-income, and underrepresented students
• Proficiency with Google Workspace tools

Preferred

• Experience in college access, advising, or higher education programs
• Bilingual (Spanish/English) skills

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary range: $70,000–$80,000
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Generous Paid Time Off and Sick Leave
• Paid holidays
• Professional development support
• Opportunity for growth as Mission Scholars continues to expand

How to Apply

Please submit the following:

• Résumé
• Brief cover letter describing your interest and relevant experience

Email materials (PDF preferred) to Katie Kinsella at kkinsella@missionscholars.org. References will be requested later in the hiring process.

Mission Scholars is an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourages candidates with diverse backgrounds and lived experiences to apply.