Program Manager

The National Association of Counties (NACo), representing America’s 3,069 county governments with 40,000 elected officials, 3.6 million county employees, seeks a Program Manager, Equity and Civic Engagement. The Program Manager will serve as the subject-matter expert on equity and civic engagement for local governments and works closely with project leads to integrate equity and civic engagement principles into current and developing projects and initiatives, as well as plan and execute on their own portfolio’s initiatives and deliverables.

The position is dependent on the availability of project-based outside funding.

Position Responsibilities and Activities:

• Actively promote NACo equity and civic engagement initiatives in written materials, conference calls and national webinars, small group convenings and national events.
• Provide quality information and guidance to county government officials on topics related to equity and civic engagement
• Plan and conduct technical assistance activities and learning activities for county leaders.
• Research best practices and develop educational resources such as webinars, workshops, case studies, toolkits and issue briefs
• Manage the timely delivery, day-to-day quality and completion and evaluation of project deliverables and other assigned duties under the guidance and direction of the Director of Programs and Operations
• Coordinate, facilitate and staff member working groups and networks that advance equity and civic engagement initiatives; engage with and be responsive to all NACo member groups and committees on related issues
• Serve as a spokesperson on equity and civic engagement topics, and actively communicate and interact with staff and NACo members, as requested

• Maintain productive ongoing relationships with NACo members, foundation and corporate funders and other NACo departments; actively collaborate with others to pursue funding for relevant initiatives

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• At least 3 years’ experience in the practice of equity and/or civic engagement work in the public policy, local government or foundation sector.
• Bachelor’s degree (advanced degree preferred) in public policy, government administration, DEI or another related field.
• Experience designing, implementing and evaluating equity, DEI and/or civic engagement programs is preferred.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including in public speaking and in conducting formal meetings with internal and external stakeholders.
• Knowledge of federal, state and local governments and relevant organizations.
• Ability to work well in a political environment while maintaining non-partisan perspective.
• Experience working in a fast-paced, collaborative team environment
• Demonstrated ability to maintain credibility and positive relationships with various constituencies, including NACo committees, corporate partners, affiliate organizations, foundation partners and Board members.

Working Conditions

• Some travel is required, estimated at four to six trips per year
• Hybrid Work Schedule

Application Procedures:
Persons interested in this position should submit a resume with cover letter and salary requirements to: resumes@naco.org

Why Work a NACo:

Our vision is healthy, safe and vibrant counties across America. Counties play an integral part of the intergovernmental responsibilities. We are guided by the belief that stronger counties result in a stronger America. Join us as we advance excellence in public service to help people and places thrive.

NACo is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Our jobs are open to all applications regardless of race, color, sex, gender, sexual orientation, age, religion, national origin, marital status, pregnancy, disability, military status, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state, or local law.

Employees of NACo enjoy a fun and challenging environment with a wide range of competitive benefits. Benefits include comprehensive medical, vision and dental insurance; generous paid leave and federal holidays; transportation subsidy; tuition assistance; 401(k) match, pension plans, group life insurance, voluntary payroll deductions for pet insurance, and credit union membership pet insurance, credit union membership and short/long term disability coverage including applicable parental leave and Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

We are passionate about advancing excellence in public service to help people and places thrive across America. We embrace and respect our diversity of experience, heritage, and thought and strive to cultivate an equitable workplace. We pursue our mission through a ONE NACo mindset of genuine care, empathy and respect for each other, our partners and our members.