The NJ Chamber of Commerce Foundation anticipates a grant-funded opening for a Program Manager Consultant position in February 2026. Interested candidates should email proposals per the guidelines below to Donna Custard: donna.custard@njchamber.com by January 23, 2026.
Position Overview (Grant-Funded Consulting Role)
The JAG New Jersey Program Manager (Consultant) will serve as a grant-funded external consultant responsible for monitoring and supporting the implementation of the Jobs for America’s Graduates New Jersey (JAG NJ) program statewide. The Consultant will focus on ensuring fidelity to the JAG Model, with particular emphasis on trauma-informed practices, program quality, and continuous improvement. The Consultant will collaborate closely with the JAG NJ Executive Director to conduct program observations, provide technical assistance, and support grant-funded initiatives.
The Consultant will operate under a professional services agreement for the duration of the grant period.
Regular travel to JAG NJ program sites is required, including but not limited to high schools in Passaic, Newark, New Brunswick, Rahway, Plainfield, Vineland, Willingboro, Little Egg Harbor, Pleasantville, and Woodbury.
Scope of Work and Responsibilities
1. Program Oversight and Site-Based Support
- Conduct a minimum of two (2) in-person site visits per JAG NJ program site during the grant period to observe classroom instruction and program delivery is aligned with JAG NJ program standards.
- Engage with JAG Specialists and school administrators to support high-quality program implementation.
- Provide timely post-observation feedback and technical assistance to JAG Specialists, aligned with the JAG NJ mission and grant requirements.
Key focus areas include:
- Trauma-Informed Approach: Ensure JAG Specialists are equipped to recognize and respond to student trauma, including appropriate referrals for additional services. Support the development of practices that foster resilience, student engagement, and mental health well-being.
- Safe and Supportive Learning Environment: Support JAG Specialists in creating inclusive, supportive classroom environments that enable students to complete Individual Development Plans (IDPs) and achieve academic and career goals.
- Postsecondary and Employer Engagement: Ensure JAG Specialists are prepared to recruit and maintain relationships with postsecondary institutions and employer partners to expand job and career opportunities for JAG NJ participants.
- Project-Based Learning Implementation: Monitor and support consistent implementation of required project-based learning modules in accordance with the JAG program model.
2. Program Quality, Monitoring, and Technical Assistance
- Monitor overall program quality through structured feedback, outcome tracking, and reporting.
- Review data within the JAGForce system to assess implementation, participation, and outcomes.
- Collaborate with the JAG NJ Executive Director to ensure program elements meet grant expectations and performance benchmarks.
Key focus areas include:
- Training and Ongoing Technical Assistance: Provide standing weekly support meetings to provide technical assistance, guidance, and targeted training for JAG Specialists. Coordinate with the JAG NJ Executive Director to deliver workshops and group trainings focused on instruction, trauma-informed practices, behavioral intervention strategies, and career pathway development.
- Documentation and Compliance: Ensure required documentation, monitoring tools, and written reports are completed accurately and on time in accordance with grant guidelines and agreements with NJCCF/JAG NJ.
3. Required Meetings, Trainings, and Events
The Consultant is expected to participate in the following activities as part of the scope of work:
- Attendance at all JAG NJ team meetings, including:
- Four (4) in-person meetings
- Four (4) virtual meetings
- Full participation in the August two-day JAG NJ training
- Attendance at both in-state JAG NJ conferences
Proposal Submission Requirements
Applicants must submit a formal proposal by January 23, 2026 to Donna Custard (donna.custard@njchamber.com) that includes:
- A narrative describing relevant experience and approach to fulfilling the scope of work
- A detailed budget outlining:
- Proposed hourly rate (must be reasonable and allocable in accordance with 2 C.F.R. Part 200, Subpart E—Cost Principles)
- Estimated hours
- Mileage reimbursement (not to exceed $0.47 per mile)
- Anticipated toll expenses
All travel costs must be reasonable, allowable, and aligned with grant requirements.
Qualifications
1. Education and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in business, education, social work, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and professional experience.
- Minimum of five (5) years of experience implementing and/or managing youth-focused programs, with demonstrated expertise in trauma-informed practices and student support.
- Demonstrated success implementing or managing the Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG) program or similar education and workforce development initiatives.
- Experience as a school administrator in a New Jersey-based district is highly preferred.
2. Communication, Relationship Management and Leadership
- Demonstrate strong communication and relationship-management skills, effectively engaging school administrators, educators, employers, and community partners while supporting collaboration, advocacy, and conflict resolution.
- Provide training, coaching, and leadership support to program staff, including planning and facilitating regional meetings, professional development sessions, and trainings.
3. Technical Competencies
- Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel.
- Familiarity with JAG-related platforms, including JAGForce, Tallo, and Skills to Succeed, is preferred.
4. Travel and Logistics
- Valid driver’s license and ability to travel throughout New Jersey as required.
Reporting Relationship
The Consultant will report to the Executive Director, Jobs for America’s Graduates New Jersey, and will work in close coordination with NJCCF/JAG NJ leadership.
Engagement Type
Grant-funded consulting engagement under a professional services agreement. This role is not classified as employment and is not eligible for NJCCF employee benefits. The Consultant is responsible for maintaining appropriate insurance and meeting all contractual requirements. All contractors representing the NJCCF are required to undergo a criminal background check as a condition of their professional services agreement.