Youth and Education Program Manager

Overview

Goldbelt Heritage Foundation (GHF) is a nonprofit organization committed to preserving and revitalizing the culture, language, and ways of knowing of the Tlingit people of Southeast Alaska. Through educational programming, language revitalization, arts, and community collaboration, GHF fosters Indigenous knowledge and strengthens cultural identity for current and future generations.

Position Summary:

The Youth & Education Program Manager leads the development, coordination, and implementation of youth and education initiatives that advance the mission of the Goldbelt Heritage Foundation. This position oversees culturally grounded programming designed to support Indigenous youth in strengthening cultural identity, leadership skills, and educational success.

The Youth & Education Program Manager works collaboratively with community members, elders, educators, schools, and partner organizations to deliver programs that connect youth with Tlingit culture, language, and traditional knowledge. This position is responsible for managing program planning, supervising staff, overseeing budgets and grant deliverables, and ensuring programs are implemented effectively and in alignment with GHF values and goals.

This position requires a high level of independence, initiative, and cultural competency, and involves coordination of multiple programs, partnerships, and community-based activities throughout the year.

Responsibilities

Essential Job Functions:

• Program Development & Implementation
  • Lead the planning, coordination, and implementation of youth and education programs aligned with GHF’s mission and strategic priorities.
  • Oversee year-round youth programming, including after-school activities, youth leadership opportunities, cultural learning programs, and seasonal camps.
  • Coordinate culturally grounded educational experiences that integrate Tlingit language, arts, traditional knowledge, and community mentorship.
  • Ensure programs are delivered on time, within scope, and in alignment with organizational goals and funding requirements.
  • Oversee the development of culturally responsive curriculum, educational resources, and learning materials aligned with Indigenous knowledge systems and community priorities.
• Youth Engagement & Community Partnership
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with Lingít communities, elders, culture bearers, educators, and community partners.
  • Coordinate career-connected learning opportunities, internships, mentorships, and educational pathways that support Indigenous youth pursuing higher education in a variety of career fields.
  • Collaborate with local schools, organizations, and institutions to expand youth education and cultural learning opportunities.
  • Serve as a primary point of contact for youth program participants, families, and community partners.
  • Represent GHF at community events, gatherings, and educational partnerships.
  • Responsible for working with educators and overseeing educator training in established partnership programming.
• Program Management & Oversight
  • Manage program timelines, deliverables, and evaluation metrics to ensure successful outcomes.
  • Recruit, train, and supervise program staff, contactors, interns, and volunteers.
  • Foster a supportive, culturally responsive learning environment for youth participants and staff.
  • Monitor program performance and implement improvements based on participant feedback and program evaluation.
• Grant Management & Reporting
  • Support grant proposal development and funding opportunities related to youth and education programming.
  • Maintain accurate records of program activities, budgets, and participant data.
  • Ensure compliance with grant requirements, reporting deadlines, and performance measures.
  • Prepare reports and documentation demonstrating program impacts.
• Administrative & Organizational Support
  • Manage program budgets and track expenditures in accordance with grant and organizational requirements.
  • Coordinate logistics for youth programs, camps, workshops, and community events.
  • Assist with procurement of supplies, materials, and services needed for program implementation.
  • Provide program updates and reports to organizational leadership.
• Work Environment & Conditions
  • Time will be split between office work and community-based program activities.
  • Office work includes program planning, reporting, and administrative responsibilities.
  • Community work includes youth programming, educational partnerships, and cultural activities.
  • Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as required for youth programs and events.
  • Occasional travel required for regional events, camps, trainings, and conferences or meetings.
  • Transportation may include watercraft or other small modes of transportation within rural Alaska.
• Other Duties
  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

Necessary Skills and Knowledge:

• Strong program management, organization, and leadership skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint) and project management tools.
• Strong organizational and time management skills with attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in education, Indigenous studies, social work, public administration, or a related field required. Equivalent experience may substitute.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in youth development, education programming, or program management.
• Demonstrated experience working with Indigenous communities and youth.
• Experience managing budgets, grants, and program reporting.
• Valid AK driverʼs license.
• Position will be exposed to multiple allergens including cedar and wool (sheep and mountain goat).

Desired Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in education, Indigenous studies, or a related field.
• Experience working with Tlingit youth, communities, or organizations.
• Experience collaborating with school districts or educational institutions.
• Experience working with grants, compliance, and reporting.
• Knowledge of Tlingit language, arts and culture.
• Experience working with Alaska Native organizations.
• Experience with trauma-informed, culturally responsive, or youth-centered educational practices.

The annual salary for this position is $85,000 DOE.