Supervisory Program Manager (Associate Director)

DC Department of Employment Services

June 01, 2026

Job Summary

Department of Employment Services Bureau of Workforce and Federal Programs is seeking a bold and forward-thinking Supervisory Program Manager to serve in a role designed for someone ready to reimagine how workforce systems operate and deliver impact. As the Federal Workforce Bureau’s lead strategist, this position sits at the forefront of designing, piloting, and scaling innovative workforce initiatives that align with both federal priorities and the evolving needs of the District’s labor market. The incumbent will identify emerging trends, translate WIOA and federal policy into actionable program models, and build scalable pathways that connect residents to high-growth, high-wage careers across sectors such as technology, healthcare, skilled trades, the green economy, and AI-driven services. This is an opportunity to not only lead innovation but to define what it looks like in real time.

In this role, the incumbent will operate where strategy meets execution balancing creativity with compliance and innovation with accountability. The incumbent will leverage deep expertise in WIOA and federal guidance to maximize flexibility within allowable frameworks while ensuring strong performance outcomes across adult, dislocated worker, youth, and apprenticeship programs. Reporting directly to the Deputy Director, the incumbent will lead a team of program staff and Workforce Development Specialist while driving initiatives that are data-informed, outcome-driven, and built for scale. From braiding funding streams and launching pilot programs to translating national best practices into local success stories, the incumbent will play a pivotal role in shaping a workforce ecosystem that is responsive, equitable, and built for the future.

Duties and Responsibilities

Develops partnerships with the private and non-profit sectors and coordinates with the District workforce development agencies and organization in delivering workforce development services that are seamless, universal, and customer-friendly. Identifies legal requirements and government reporting regulations affecting workforce development functions. Monitors and directs the preparation of information requested or required for compliance. Approves all information submitted. Acts as primary contact with DOL and outside government agencies.

Develops regional workforce investment partnerships, interacts with representatives from Maryland and Virginia's workforce development systems in establishing and reinforcing viable regional approaches to workforce development. Oversees the identification of eligible providers of workforce development services in compliance with WIA regulations; conducts monitoring and oversight of workforce investment programs; recommends system changes that will improve service quality. Evaluates employees' work performance. Interviews candidates for positions and make recommendations for appointments, status changes, disciplinary actions, separations, reassignments, etc. Solves problems related to the work supervised. Deals effectively with employees on suggestions, complaints, grievances and other matters involved in the day-to-day operations of the office. Directs continuing on-the-job training and recommends formal training for staff. Approves selections for vacant positions. Makes changes in work or assignment of functions to positions to improve workflow and to increase productivity; and analyzes work requirements and determines staff resources, equipment, etc. Keeps employees informed of management's goals and objectives.