DIRECTOR OF EMPLOYMENT & ADULT PROGRAMS

NATIONAL DOWN SYNDROME SOCIETY•Washington, DC

7d•$95,000 - $100,000

About The Position

The Director of Employment & Adult Programs provides strategic and operational leadership for NDSS initiatives advancing employment, economic opportunity, and independence for adults with Down syndrome. Reporting to the Chief Programs Officer, the Director leads established employment programs and partnerships while helping develop and implement a comprehensive strategy aligned with the NDSS strategic plan. The role will help build and lead a high-performing team as NDSS expands employment initiatives and its broader adult independence strategy. Working with the Chief Programs Officer and Programs team, the Director identifies staffing needs, develops organizational capacity, and supports sustainable program growth and measurable impact. The position leads adult-focused programming related to employment, independent living, community inclusion, and access to supports and resources that enhance quality of life. It also engages adults with Down syndrome, families, and stakeholders to inform priorities and resources, establishes and evaluates measurable outcomes, and represents NDSS externally on employment, adult supports, and community inclusion. The role develops employer education and engagement initiatives, manages program budgets and partnerships, and provides oversight and support to direct reports as the team grows. The position is based in Washington, DC, or remote, with travel of less than 25%. Occasional evening and weekend work may be required based on organizational and program needs.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Social Work, Rehabilitation Counseling, Special Education, Nonprofit Management, Public Policy, Business Administration, or a related field.
At least 8 years of progressive professional experience in disability services, workforce development, nonprofit leadership, community engagement, program management, or a related field.
Demonstrated experience developing, implementing, and evaluating programs serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Experience developing strategic plans and translating organizational goals into actionable program initiatives.
Experience managing projects, budgets, and cross-functional initiatives.
Experience engaging individuals with disabilities and family members as partners in program development and decision-making.
Strong understanding of opportunities and challenges facing adults with Down syndrome, including employment, independent living, and community engagement.
Ability to develop and execute strategic initiatives aligned with organizational goals.
Exceptional leadership, relationship-building, and stakeholder engagement skills.
Strong project management skills and ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
Excellent written, verbal, presentation, and public speaking skills.
Ability to analyze program data, evaluate outcomes, and develop recommendations for continuous improvement.
Demonstrated ability to build and maintain collaborative relationships with employers, community organizations, government agencies, affiliates, and other stakeholders.
Proficiency with technology and systems for program management, tracking, and reporting.
Willingness to travel and work occasional evenings and weekends based on organizational and program needs.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree.
Prior supervisory or team leadership experience, including the ability to recruit, develop, and lead staff as the department grows.
Experience working with nonprofit organizations, advocacy groups, government agencies, employers, and/or community-based organizations.
Knowledge of employment supports, workforce development programs, transition services, and issues affecting adults with Down syndrome and other intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Familiarity with systems, services, and supports affecting adults with Down syndrome and other intellectual and developmental disabilities, including housing, transportation, financial management, and supported decision-making.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement a comprehensive strategy to expand, strengthen, and advance NDSS adult programs and employment initiatives.
Provide strategic leadership across adult-focused programming, advancing employment, independent living, community inclusion, and access to relevant supports and resources.
Identify emerging needs and priorities in the adult Down syndrome community and translate them into responsive programs and initiatives.
Engage adults with Down syndrome, families, and community stakeholders to inform program priorities and resource development.
Establish measurable program goals and outcomes, monitor performance, and evaluate impact in alignment with NDSS strategic priorities.
Serve as the organizational lead for NDSS employment initiatives and adult programs.
Design, develop, and oversee programs, resources, and initiatives that promote meaningful opportunities and support adults with Down syndrome throughout adulthood.
Develop, deliver, and oversee employer education, training, and engagement initiatives to advance inclusive hiring, workplace accessibility, and meaningful employment opportunities.
Develop and manage program budgets, ensuring responsible use of resources and alignment with organizational priorities.
Guide, oversee, and support direct reports as the team grows.
Monitor trends, research, and evidence-informed practices in adult disability services, employment, and community inclusion to inform strategy and program development.
Build and manage partnerships with employers, service providers, government agencies, community organizations, and other stakeholders.
Represent NDSS externally as a subject matter expert on employment, adult supports, and community inclusion.
Advance access to resources, opportunities, and supports that help adults with Down syndrome and their families navigate adulthood and achieve their goals.
Foster a collaborative, mission-driven team culture aligned with NDSS core values and strategic plan.
Perform other duties as assigned.