Program Manager

The Program Manager is responsible for building, implementing, and maintaining the operational, cultural, and therapeutic foundation of Tree Sprout Haven's trauma-informed, culturally grounded group living program. During the start-up phase (prior to client placement), the Program Manager acts as the primary architect of systems, compliance structures, staff readiness, and cultural integration. This role ensures the home is fully prepared for licensing, DFNA/CFS referrals, and safe, therapeutic youth placement.

What you'll do

Licensing, Compliance & Operational Readiness

• Ensure full compliance with Alberta Children's Services licensing standards.
• Maintain readiness documentation: fire drills, emergency plans, safety audits, medication protocols.
• Develop and maintain all mandatory logs (daily logs, contact notes, incident reports, medication logs).
• Oversee FOIP compliance, confidentiality systems, and secure record-keeping.
• Prepare client binders, care plan templates, safety plans, and admission packages.

Program Development & Cultural Integration

• Build TSH's trauma-informed, culturally grounded Hub-and-Spoke model into daily operations.
• Develop daily routines, cultural programming calendars, land-based activity plans.
• Collaborate with Elders, Knowledge Keepers, clinicians, and cultural mentors.
• Ensure Indigenous teachings and scriptural symbolism are respectfully integrated.

Staffing & Training

• Recruit, screen, and onboard Child & Youth Care Workers.
• Develop staff orientation manuals and competency checklists.
• Ensure staff complete mandatory training (First Aid/CPR, suicide intervention, trauma-informed care, cultural safety).
• Build shift schedules for 24-hour coverage.

Administrative & Operational Setup

• Set up secure digital and physical record-keeping systems.
• Oversee home readiness: furnishings, supplies, food safety, cleaning schedules.
• Maintain inventory and procurement systems.

External Relations & Referral Development

• Liaise with DFNAs, CFS placement teams, and community partners.
• Submit readiness updates to licensing officers.
• Build referral pathways and present TSH's program to placement coordinators.

Placement Preparation

• Review referrals and assess fit.
• Prepare individualized onboarding plans for incoming youth.
• Coordinate with caseworkers, guardians, and cultural supports.

What you bring

Required

• Diploma or degree in Child & Youth Care, Social Work, Psychology, or Human Services.
• 2-3+ years experience in residential care, trauma-informed practice, or youth services.
• Strong understanding of Indigenous cultural safety and land-based healing.
• Knowledge of Alberta licensing standards and FOIP.
• Experience supervising staff or leading programs.
• Clear Criminal Record Check & Intervention Check.
• First Aid/CPR, Suicide Intervention.

Assets

• Experience opening or managing a new group home.
• Strong administrative, policy-writing, and organizational skills.
• Ability to collaborate with Elders and clinicians.
• Excellent communication and conflict-resolution skills.