Program Director- NYCA Cornerstone

Department

Adolescents and Youth

Site/Location

Cornerstone and SONYC programs

Salary Range

$51,000 - $53,000

Reports To

Senior Director /Department Director

MISSION STATEMENT

East Side House cares for the individuals, families, and communities we serve by expanding opportunities for them to live more fulfilling lives through education, career development, and supportive services.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Summary/ Objective

East Side House (ESH) is a trusted community resource serving the Bronx and Northern Manhattan. We believe that education is the key to creating economic and civic opportunities for individuals, their families, and other communities.

ESH’s Cornerstone and SONYC (School’s out NYC) Programs support this mission by providing high-quality, year-round programming within New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) community centers and public schools. These programs serve youth and adults through education enrichment, workforce readiness, recreation, and community engagement initiatives.

Reporting to the Senior Director and /or Department Director, the Program Director is responsible for overall development, implementation, and supervision of the NYCHA Cornerstone and/or SONYC Program sites. This includes oversight of daily operations, staff supervision, program compliance, and the creation of safe, inclusive, and responsive environments that promote positive outcomes for all participants.

As a member of the Adolescent and Youth Division, the Program Director is expected to lead dynamic, age-appropriate programming for middle school, high school, and adult participants. This role includes direct supervision of the Assistant Program Director, Group Leaders, Activity Specialist, and other frontline staff. It requires regular collaboration with Human Resources, Finance, IT, and other East Side House departments.

Under the supervision of the Senior Director and/or Department Director, the Program Director will:

• Provide strategic leadership and day-to-day oversight of youth and adult programs, including evenings, weekends, and summer.
• Recruit, hire, schedule, onboard, and supervise full-time and part-time staff.
• Monitor performance and ensure compliance with DYCD goals, quality standards, and contractual requirements.
• Conduct staff evaluations, provide ongoing coaching, and lead monthly professional development and team meetings.
• Oversee the design and delivery of engaging, age-appropriate programming focused on academics, recreation, workforce readiness, and cultural enrichment.
• Ensure compliance with DOH School-Aged Child Care and Summer Day regulations, including quarterly inspections.
• Train staff on safety protocols and ensure emergency preparedness.
• Track attendance and maintain accurate records using DYCD Connect and internal systems.
• Manage CACFP Food Program compliance and documentation.
• Serve as the main point of contact for NYCHA, DYCD, schools, families, and community partners.
• Build relationships with residents, tenant associations, youth councils, and community stakeholders.
• Conduct quarterly community assessments and incorporate participant feedback into program planning.
• Plan and execute four community events and a series of family workshops annually.
• Cultivate at least three new partnerships each year to expand program offerings.
• Manage the program budget, process purchase orders, and submit reports on time.
• Represent the program in required meetings and maintain regular communication with NYCHA and DYCD.
• Collaborate with ESH colleagues to coordinate events, share best practices, and support agency-wide initiatives.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Other Duties

Please note that this job description is not intended to be a comprehensive listing of all activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee in this role. Duties, obligations, and activities are subject to change at any time, with or without notice.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree 2 years experience in field
• Experience with budget management, compliance, and structured youth or intergenerational programming.
• Knowledge of Bronx communities and local resources; NYCHA or DYCD program experience strongly preferred

Skills & Competencies

• Project Management: Manages programs, events, and schedules effectively.
• Problem Solving: Applies sound judgment and youth-centered solutions.
• Community Engagement: Builds partnerships with families, residents, and stakeholders.
• Participant Focus: Designs responsive, inclusive, and community-aligned programming.
• Team Leadership: Coaches staff, builds team culture, and promotes professional growth.
• Analytical Thinking: Uses data and feedback to drive program improvements.
• Organizational Skills: Excels in documentation, budgeting, and managing priorities.
• Communication: Strong written, verbal, and public speaking skills
• Cultural Humility: Leads with equity and respect for diverse communities.

Clearance

Employees must be clear to work at ESH.  Employment is contingent upon successful completion of background checks and/or screenings.

Supervisory Responsibility

N/A OR

This position is responsible for supervising and managing the performance of all designated employees assigned to the position within the department.

Physical Demands

This role may involve occasional lifting or moving of items up to 25 pounds and routine use of standard office equipment. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

Expected Work Schedule
The typical work schedule for this position includes the following:

• SONYC Programs: Monday through Friday, between 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM, aligned with school-based programming needs.
• Cornerstone Programs: Weekday evening shifts (typically 3:00 PM-11:00 PM, with potential for Saturday and Sunday shifts, based on site-specific programming).
• Sunday programming may be required based on seasonal activities or community events.

As aligned with the needs of the program/service.   The schedule may be adjusted based on ESH’s operational needs, with notice provided whenever possible.

EEO Statement

East Side House (ESH) is an Equal Opportunity Employer and strongly encourages individuals with disabilities and veterans to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.