Special Projects Manager at South Bay Workforce Investment – Hawthorne, California

The Special Projects Manager serves in a key leadership role responsible for overseeing and advancing special projects, strategic initiatives, and funding activities that support the organization’s operational and programmatic goals. In this capacity, the incumbent drives program and fund development efforts while ensuring the successful execution of priority initiatives.

Working in close partnership with executive leadership, the role operates within a dynamic structure where responsibilities may be delegated or expanded based on organizational needs. The Special Projects Manager represents the organization in assigned initiatives and collaborates across departments and external partners to ensure alignment, compliance, and continuity of services. This position exercises independent judgment, decision-making authority, and managerial oversight while leading multiple initiatives simultaneously and supporting organizational efforts related to program development, partnerships, and funding opportunities.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: Under the direction of the Deputy Director or designated authority, the Special Projects Manager leads special projects, strategic initiatives, and funding efforts that support the organization’s mission and long-term objectives. This role is responsible for coordinating and implementing assigned initiatives, including grant development, program expansion, and system improvements, while ensuring effective execution and accountability. Duties include, but are not limited to, the following:

Strategic Projects and Initiative Management

• Manage the planning, coordination, and execution of special projects and organizational initiatives.
• Oversee project timelines, deliverables, and performance outcomes to ensure successful implementation.
• Identify opportunities for program development, expansion, and innovation aligned with organizational goals.
• Develop and implement systems, processes, and tools to support project tracking, reporting, and performance measurement.
• Facilitate cross-departmental collaboration to ensure alignment, communication, and effective execution of initiatives.

Grant Development and Fund Development

• Identify, research, and pursue funding opportunities, including grants, partnerships, and special initiatives.
• Lead the development of grant proposals, applications, and supporting documentation.
• Manage awarded grants, ensuring compliance with funding requirements, timelines, and reporting obligations.
• Monitor grant performance, expenditures, and outcomes to ensure alignment with funding guidelines and organizational expectations.
• Collaborate with leadership and fiscal staff to support budget development and financial tracking for funded projects.

Program Development and Oversight

• Lead the development and implementation of new and existing programs, including pilot initiatives and specially funded projects.
• Oversee program implementation to ensure alignment with contractual obligations, regulatory requirements, and organizational standards.
• Evaluate program performance and recommend improvements to enhance service delivery and outcomes.
• Develop Requests for Proposals (RFPs), scopes of work, and program frameworks.

Organizational Support and Systems Improvement

• Review federal, state, and local regulations, policies, and guidance to identify impacts to programs and operations.
• Recommend and implement policy, procedural, and system updates to ensure compliance and efficiency.
• Design or redesign processes to improve operational effectiveness and service delivery.
• Lead audit preparation and coordinate documentation to address audit requirements.

Partnership Development and External Engagement

• Represent the organization in meetings, collaborations, and regional initiatives with partners, stakeholders, and agencies.
• Develop and maintain strategic partnerships that enhance program offerings and funding opportunities.
• Participate in sector partnerships and initiatives across key industries, including but not limited to healthcare, manufacturing, and other priority sectors.
• Maintain relationships with funders, partners, and stakeholders to support organizational growth and sustainability.

Leadership and Team Support

• Provide leadership and oversight to staff involved in special projects and initiatives.
• Assign tasks, monitor progress, and ensure accountability for project deliverables.
• Support staff development through coaching, feedback, and performance guidance.
• Participate in performance evaluations and disciplinary processes, as needed.

Additional Duties

• Perform other related duties as assigned to support organizational priorities and operational needs.

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in a related field (e.g., Business Administration, Management, Social Sciences); Master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum of five (5) years of professional experience in workforce development or a closely related field.
• Two (2) to three (3) years of experience in fund development, including grant writing and securing funding from foundations or private sources.
• Prior supervisory or management experience in a social services or similar environment.
• Experience working with grants and complex funding structures, including tracking and reporting requirements.
• Experience with database management systems or workforce development tracking systems.
• Ability to manage workforce programs and initiatives, including oversight of multiple projects, funding streams, and program objectives, while ensuring compliance and effective execution.
• Knowledge of administrative operations, including budgeting, grant administration, and records management.
• Ability to lead, supervise, and hold staff accountable through clear direction, performance monitoring, and ongoing support.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively, build trust, and maintain professional relationships across all levels and with external partners.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to prioritize competing demands and meet deadlines.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment, work independently, and adapt to changing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including advanced skills in Excel and Word.
• Valid California Driver’s License, reliable transportation, and current vehicle insurance.
• Successful completion of background and reference checks.
• Ability to comply with all organizational safety protocols and working condition requirements.

An equivalent combination of education, training, and relevant experience may be considered in lieu of the stated requirements, with experience substituting for education on a year-for-year basis.

Role Expectations

• This role requires a consistent, engaged presence to manage and oversee assigned Special Projects functions, ensuring alignment of organizational priorities, cross-departmental initiatives, and timely execution of projects. The incumbent is expected to exercise sound judgment, decision-making authority, and leadership, while maintaining accountability for project outcomes, responsiveness to operational needs, and active involvement in problem-solving and organizational coordination.
• The essential functions of this position are integral to its purpose and cannot be modified or removed without fundamentally altering the nature of the role. Individuals accepting this position acknowledge their understanding of these requirements and their ability to perform the essential duties as described.

Note: This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties or responsibilities. Management reserves the right to modify, add, or remove duties as necessary. Nothing in this description constitutes a contract of employment.

Working Conditions

• This position requires flexibility and adaptability in response to organizational priorities, operational needs, and public health or safety protocols.
• Must be able to manage multiple priorities, work under pressure, and meet deadlines related to program performance, funding requirements, and organizational initiatives.
• Requires periods of walking, standing, and sitting for extended durations, with active participation in meetings, site visits, and operational oversight activities.
• Travel to program sites, partner locations, and meetings with stakeholders or community organizations may be required, based on project needs and organizational priorities.

Salary & Benefits

This is a full-time, exempt position (40 hours/week), generally with a starting wage commensurate with experience. The annual salary range is $95,243.20 - $113,588.80/yr. Our Company offers a comprehensive employee benefits package, which includes 75% health cost coverage (employees only), sick and vacation time, holidays, and a competitive 401k plan. The employer is eligible for student loan forgiveness (PSLF). All full-time employees are invited to participate in the company’s health benefits package after completing the 60-90-day employment introductory period.