Program Manager, Bringing Families Home

About the organization

Upward Bound House (UBH) works to break the cycle of homelessness affecting families across generations. Drawing on more than 30 years of experience serving families without stable housing, the organization is recognized for both service delivery and advocacy aimed at creating durable solutions to family homelessness. UBH promotes a work culture centered on empowerment, teamwork, diversity, strong relationships, efficiency, and clear communication. Team members are supported through a caring, merit-based environment that encourages professional growth and development, and the organization values people who are committed to helping others and creating meaningful change.

Role summary

The Program Manager for Bringing Families Home is responsible for leading the BFH program and ensuring strong service delivery for families who are experiencing homelessness or housing instability and are involved with child welfare systems. This role provides staff supervision, oversees day-to-day operations, maintains contract compliance, and works closely with DCFS, housing providers, and community partners to strengthen outcomes for families.

Key responsibilities

• Direct the daily functioning of the BFH program and keep operations running smoothly.
• Make sure the program follows contract obligations and internal agency standards.
• Review program performance, service quality, and outcome trends on an ongoing basis.
• Refine workflows and improve internal procedures to increase effectiveness.
• Supervise case management and support team members.
• Coach staff, provide training, and deliver performance-based feedback.
• Facilitate weekly supervision meetings and case conferencing discussions.
• Assist staff in managing complex and high-acuity cases.
• Oversee housing navigation and rapid re-housing support services.
• Help ensure families are placed and stabilized in housing in a timely manner.
• Address barriers that affect housing stability and service progress.
• Monitor family progress and keep service plans on track.
• Coordinate with DCFS and other system partners to support families.
• Take part in multidisciplinary case conferences and collaborative planning.
• Ensure services support reunification and stabilization goals for families.
• Build and maintain effective relationships with housing and community partners.
• Maintain accurate HMIS documentation and ensure records are submitted on time.
• Track data-entry compliance, reporting deadlines, and performance metrics.
• Support audits, quality assurance reviews, and related compliance activities.
• Identify service gaps and implement practical improvements.
• Strengthen referral pathways and housing access systems.
• Use data to inform program decisions and improve outcomes.

Qualifications and experience

• A bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Human Services, Public Health, Psychology, or a closely related field is required.
• A master’s degree is preferred.
• 3 to 5 years of experience in housing, case management, or child welfare programs is required.
• At least 2 years of supervisory or leadership experience is preferred.
• Working knowledge of rapid re-housing models is needed.
• Understanding of child welfare systems and family stabilization services is important.
• Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills are expected.
• Experience using HMIS or a similar data system is required.
• Ability to juggle multiple priorities in a fast-moving environment is important.
• Solid documentation practices and compliance oversight skills are necessary.

Additional requirements

• A valid California driver’s license is required, along with reliable transportation.
• The role requires travel throughout Los Angeles County.
• Background clearance and a TB test are required.
• CPR and First Aid certification is preferred, or may be required after hire.

Core competencies

• Team leadership and staff development
• Housing stability and case coordination
• Program compliance and quality assurance
• Collaboration with the child welfare system
• Data-informed decision making
• Crisis response and management
• Relationship building and communication
• Equity and culturally responsive practice

Benefits

• Compensation is competitive and based on experience and qualifications.
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage options are available.
• A retirement savings plan is offered.
• Paid time off and holidays are included.
• Employees may access professional development and growth opportunities within the organization.

Work environment and physical demands

This position may involve working with individuals and families in crisis, including people who may be ill, using substances, or unable to consistently maintain personal health and safety. The role can include exposure to difficult sensory conditions related to alcohol or drug use and limited personal care. The employee must be prepared to respond quickly and appropriately in crisis situations, including potentially hostile circumstances.

Reasonable accommodations may be provided to support individuals with disabilities in performing the essential functions of the role. If an accommodation is needed at the start of employment, the Human Resources Department should be notified by the first week of work. If a need arises later, HR must be informed at the time the accommodation is required.