Programs and Work-Based Learning Manager

City of Philadelphia • Philadelphia, PA

6h • $70,000 - $80,000

About The Position

The Program & Work-Based Learning (WBL) Manager supports the Director of CCME Program Development by designing, implementing, and managing high-quality work-based learning activities across CCME’s upskilling and training programs. The role is responsible for creating, implementing and managing work-based learning activities as part of CCME’s structured educational experiences, blending classroom learning with real-world work environments to develop students' career skills and knowledge. The Manager will collaborate with City department subject matter experts and leadership, staff, educators, and students to design engaging, practical activities, such as internships, apprenticeships, capstone projects, and other practical on the job type of activities (tours, mock interviews, case studies, etc.) ensuring clear learning objectives, effective preparation, and opportunities for direct alignment with career paths. The individual works with other external partners and contracted providers in the creation of effective work-based learning activities and enriching programs that support students’ ability to obtain employment through real world application of their training. This role is a collaborative leader with a passion for designing, implementing and managing WBL programs, including apprenticeships, internships, and other embedded work-based learning activities. This individual will play a critical role in increasing the number of students and workers placed in these programs to meet the workforce needs of Philadelphia's businesses and communities. The individual will also have experience shaping curriculum and program content to achieve desired outcomes in support of the Director of Program Development.

Requirements

• Knowledge of: Work-based learning models, internships, apprenticeships, and career-connected learning.
• Workforce development principles and industry-aligned training standards.
• Program evaluation, data tracking, and outcome measurement.
• City government operations, employer engagement practices, and educational systems.
• Equity, access, and inclusion in student and worker development.
• Skills in: Designing, implementing, and managing WBL programs.
• Building partnerships with employers, educators, government agencies, and providers.
• Communicating clearly with students, staff, and employer partners.
• Organizing tasks, managing timelines, and maintaining accurate program data.
• Providing career guidance and readiness support to diverse learners.
• Strong analytical skills, business sensibilities and attention to bottom line results.
• Abilities to: Translate learning objectives into practical, hands-on workplace activities.
• Work collaboratively across departments, external partners, and student groups.
• Resolve challenges, adapt to shifting priorities, and maintain program quality.
• Assess workplace environments and ensure alignment with learning goals.
• Support students’ success through encouragement, preparation, and structured guidance.
• Bachelor’s Degree in education, public administration, public policy, human resources, workforce development, or a related field preferred.
• At least three to five years of experience in public, non-profit or business organization creating and managing work-based learning programs, including apprenticeships or structured internship programs. Including work-based learning, career-connected learning, workforce development, or related program coordination.

Nice To Haves

• We value diverse experiences and are open to flexible qualifications. If you are passionate about this role and meet some of the key criteria, we encourage you to apply.

Responsibilities

• Develop, coordinate, and oversee structured WBL programs, ensuring they connect academic content to authentic workplace tasks and industry standards.
• Evaluate program effectiveness through data analysis and feedback from students and employers to implement continuous improvements.
• Maintain comprehensive databases of employer partners and student participation and track key performance indicators to meet program requirements.
• Improve and manage in coordination with the Dir. Of Operations existing WBL programs including the activities attached to the Office Administration Program, Computer Support Specialist Program with OIT, Civic Entrepreneurs Internship Program.
• Liaise with businesses, city departments, and industry professionals to create and maintain learning opportunities for students.
• Serve as a point of contact for employers and staff involved with work-based learning or program activities that require employers in addition to the City of Philadelphia, coordinating with other team members who have strong relationships with workforce and other employers in the City of Philadelphia.
• Collaborate with providers to design, deliver and support work-based learning and internship opportunities.
• Evaluate sites for WBL activities to assess workplace conditions and ensure alignment with learning objectives.
• Cultivate and coordinate work-based learning opportunities for students based on their degree program requirements and career goals.
• Counsel students on career pathways, WBL guidelines, and career readiness skills.
• Assist students with the application process and prepare them for their work experience through engaging pre-experience activities.
• When needed, serve as an active member of city-wide workforce development committees and other advisory committees to ensure alignment of workforce development strategies and agendas as designated by leadership
• Represent CCME & WP at events, conferences or meetings as needed.
• Collaborate with educators and faculty to integrate workplace tasks into classroom instruction.
• Coordinate with employers and faculty to ensure learning outcomes are aligned and met.
• Ensure compliance with any state, federal, local, and grant requirements related to WBL within the unit.
• Process and maintain accurate records and program reports.
• Create, distribute, and review placement evaluations (student and employer partner) and make recommendations based on data reports
• Coordinate with employers and faculty to ensure learning outcomes (workplace and academic) are aligned and met
• All other duties as assigned. Minimal night and weekend work may be required.

Benefits

• City employees get unlimited FREE public transportation all year long through SEPTA’s Key Advantage program. Employees can ride on SEPTA buses, subways, trolleys, and regional rail for their daily commute and more.
• The City offers its employees 8 weeks of paid parental leave.
• We offer Comprehensive health coverage for employees and their eligible dependents.
• Our wellness program offers eligibility into the discounted medical plan
• Employees receive paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Generous retirement savings options are available
• As a qualifying employer, City of Philadelphia employees are eligible to participate in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.
• The City of Philadelphia has forged partnerships with over a dozen esteemed colleges and universities in the area, ensuring that our employees have access to a wide range of tuition discounts and scholarships. Experience savings of 10% to 40% on your educational expenses, extending not only to City employees but in some cases, spouse and dependents too!

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees