Manager, Programs

Austin FC joined Major League Soccer (MLS) as the League’s 27th club in January 2019.  Austin FC officially began competing in MLS in April 2021 and will play its fifth season in 2025.  Austin FC plays its home matches at Q2 Stadium, a 100% privately financed, state-of-the-art stadium which earned certification as a zero-waste venue in 2024.  Austin FC sold out all 70 MLS home matches it played in Q2 Stadium during its first four seasons in the league, including two home MLS Cup Playoff matches in 2022 as the team reached the Western Conference Final.

4ATX Foundation is the nonprofit arm of Austin FC. Since its launch, 4ATX Foundation has been committed to using the power of soccer to build physically, socially and emotionally healthy communities. From cultivating welcoming soccer spaces and experiences where youth ignite leadership journeys to building future leaders by providing youth with personal and professional opportunities through soccer, 4ATX Foundation is equipping young people to become future leaders who invest in themselves and create thriving communities across Central Texas. 

4ATX Foundation is seeking a driven and passionate Programs Manager who will join Austin FC’s 4ATX Foundation team. Under the direction of the Senior Director of Operations, the Programs Manager will help manage the educational programming and enrichment across all Youth Leadership programs, including Clinics 4ATX, Verde Leaders, and the Verde Youth Leadership Academy. 

Key responsibilities include curriculum development, community event planning, community partnership management, and working closely with the soccer-based Program Manager to build high-quality programming that uniquely blends soccer and education for students aged 6-18 years old.

As a new position in the organization, the person who takes this role will have the opportunity to build out the programmatic function. The position is based in Austin, TX and the role will be in-person at Austin FC’s business office.

·        Is passionate about positive youth development?  

·        Utilizes current research and best practices to build and innovate youth programs?

·        Works well in a fast-paced, collaborative and goal-based environment?

·        Views soccer as a tool to deliver youth leadership programming and effect positive change in Central Texas?

 

·        Develop and enhance curriculum across all Youth Leadership programs that draw upon theory (e.g., Social Emotional Learning, Restorative Practices) and educational frameworks (e.g. Texas Essential Knowledge Skills); and

·        Monitor program quality and effectiveness through data analysis, site visits, and stakeholder feedback, and provide reports and recommendations for senior leadership; and

·        Create and lead training sessions for staff members on topics such as youth development, restorative circle facilitation, youth mental health; and

·        Help develop policies and protocols that support the well-being and safety of students, families, and coaches; and  

·        Build and maintain existing community partnerships with local nonprofits, schools, and other organizations, and represent 4ATX Foundation at school and community meetings; and

·        Plan and execute community-based events that bring together students, families, corporate and community partners, and other related stakeholders; and 

·        Work with the Youth Leadership team to help plan and execute strategies and programs aligned with the 2025-2030 strategic plan; and

·        Provide ongoing supervision of the Programs Coordinator and support their professional growth through weekly meetings; and

·        Perform other tasks as needed and be available to work weekends, select matchdays and evenings as necessary.

·        Bachelor’s degree in education, adolescent and youth development, social work, or related fields 

·        Strong understanding of positive youth development, social-emotional learning, and restorative practices

·        Experience in planning and executing enriching events and activities for youth and families

·        Interest in program design, program management, and strategic planning

·        Excellent attention to detail and an outstanding work ethic paired with strong verbal and written communication skills

·        Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects, collaborate with teammates, and delegate effectively

·        Strong interpersonal skills to connect with full and part-time staff, community partners, and other stakeholders

·        An appreciation for how soccer can be leveraged as a vehicle for learning (no playing or coaching experience required, but interest in soccer a plus)

·        A commitment to diversity and inclusion both internally and externally

·        English language proficiency is essential and Spanish/English bilingual skills are a plus, other languages welcome

 

·        It is the policy of 4ATX Foundation and Austin FC not to discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, national origin, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, physical or mental disability, marital status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.  

·        All selected candidates are subject to passing a background check prior to employment.

·        Hours are variable and can easily include early mornings, late evenings, weekends and some holidays in addition to the traditional Monday through Friday hours.