Position

Interim Carver & DSA Program Manager

Site: Carver Elementary School and Discovery STEM Academy (DSA) - Newport News, VA

Status: Independent Contractor, Hourly (~18 hours/week)

Term: 8 weeks starting March 2, 2026

Program Year Schedule: 12 hours of programming per week, which includes Mondays and Wednesdays after-school (3:30 pm to 6:30 pm) at Carver and Tuesdays and Thursdays after‑school (3:30 pm to 6:30 pm) at DSA; 1 hour program or admin meeting per week, 1 hour meeting with supervisor per week, and 4 hours of administrative work per week. Must complete mandatory training upon hiring, attend concerts, and participate in other professional development activities as needed.

Reports to: Program Director

Supervises: Teaching Artists, support staff, and volunteers

Compensation: $30.39 per hour, paid twice monthly. This position is paid via 1099 and requires submission of a completed W-9.

How to Apply

Email cover letter, resume, and three professional references to [email protected] with subject line “Interim Carver & DSA Program Manager – Your Name.” Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. No phone calls, please.

About Soundscapes

Soundscapes is a nonprofit, educational, intervention organization that instills transformative life skills in underserved children in our community using intensive music study and frequent ensemble performances. Learn more: soundscapes.org.

Summary

The Interim Carver & DSA Program Manager oversees all operations of Soundscapes’ after‑school programs at Carver Elementary School and Discovery STEM Academy. This role manages staff, scheduling, daily site logistics, behavior systems, meals/snacks, transportation, family communication, evaluation/data, and event logistics. This is primarily an education program management and operations position; a background in music is welcome, but not required.

Responsibilities

• Staff Management & Culture: Lead a cohesive site team; supervise staff and substitutes; onboard and support volunteers and visiting artists.
• Daily Operations: Direct staff and student schedules, attendance, behavioral referrals, meals/snacks, and communications; ensure smooth daily operations.
• Behavior Systems: Respond to and manage behavior issues consistently and equitably.
• Enrollment & Outreach: Recruit, register, manage waitlists, and backfill openings equitably.
• School Liaison: Serve as primary contact with Carver Elementary School and Discovery STEM Academy administration for space use, calendars, and events.
• Events & Performances: Plan and manage event schedules, meals, volunteer coordination, and equipment logistics.
• Transportation: Coordinate dismissal and transportation with liaison; drive vans when required (training provided).
• Music & Materials Coordination: Oversee distribution of music and materials; manage instrument inventory with simple tracking tools.
• Data & Reporting: Collect and maintain attendance, evaluation, and behavior data; generate reports for Soundscapes and school partners.
• Other Duties: As assigned by the Program Director.

CATS Model Competencies

The CATS Model is a lens through which we view ourselves working within Soundscapes. This “rubric” helps us understand and identify whether a staff member will be a good fit for our team and our mission.

• Citizen: Invested in social change and committed to strengthening the communities Soundscapes serves.
• Artist: Contributes creativity and excellence, bringing a unique voice and perspective to their work.
• Teacher: Communicates clearly, equitably, and with empathy to foster a culture of learning and respect.
• Scholar: Embraces curiosity and reflection, using new ideas and feedback to grow and improve.

Qualifications

Required - 5+ years in education, youth development, or after‑school program operations. - Staff supervision, scheduling, and family communication experience. - Strong organizational and interpersonal skills; proactive problem‑solver. - Proficiency in Google Workspace/Microsoft Office; willingness to learn databases. - Valid driver’s license; available for some evenings/weekends.

Preferred - Bachelor’s in education, youth development, arts administration, or related field (music background welcome but not required). - Experience supervising part‑time staff/volunteers. - Ability to drive a 15‑passenger van/box truck (training provided). - Bilingual (English/Spanish) a plus.

Schedule & Work Conditions

• On‑site during program days (Mon/Weds after school at Carver and Tues/Thurs after school at DSA), with additional planning/admin hours.
• Average 18 hours/week
• Must be able to lift/move up to 25 lbs (instruments, stands, event materials).

Soundscapes is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and students.