Program Manager – Job description template

This template is designed for nonprofit organizations hiring a remote Program Manager, someone who holds programs together from concept to completion. In most nonprofits, this role is responsible for turning vision into structure and ideas into actions that communities can actually feel. Program Managers build timelines, coordinate people and partnerships, write reports, respond to challenges, and quietly make sure that everything important gets done.

A good Program Manager connects leadership with logistics, operations with outcomes, and values with the daily choices that shape a program’s success.

To adapt this template for your organization:

  • Update the “About the Role” section to describe how programs work at your organization. Is the pace fast? Do you experiment often? Are you scaling? Mention how the person in this role will shape or evolve what already exists
  • Customize the responsibilities to reflect your operating style. If the Program Manager leads MEL, manages regional teams, or supports fundraising, make sure that’s clear
  • Use the “What We’re Looking For” section to describe the mindset, work ethic, and perspective you value. This is where you help applicants self-select
  • Adjust the benefits section to reflect what you can realistically offer, whether that’s stipends, flexible schedules, wellness days, or just a collaborative team with strong values

Once it’s tailored to your needs, publish the posting on the Remote Nonprofits Job Board. It’s the fastest way to reach experienced, globally distributed professionals who are actively looking for mission-aligned work in remote environments.

Program Manager (Remote, Global)

Location: Remote (open to applicants worldwide)
Employment Type: Full-time or part-time
Salary Range: $60,000 to $85,000 USD per year or local equivalent, adjusted for experience and cost of living
Reports to: Programs Director or Executive Director

About the Role

We’re hiring a Program Manager to help shape and run the core initiatives that drive our mission forward. This is a high-impact position suited for someone who thrives at the intersection of planning, collaboration, and implementation. As part of a fully remote, globally distributed team, you’ll oversee one or more programs from end to end — from initial design and coordination to delivery, reporting, and ongoing improvement.

You’ll work closely with leadership, operations, and community partners to ensure that our programs are aligned with our values, effectively managed, and grounded in real-world impact. Whether you’re launching a new initiative or scaling an existing one, your work will directly support the people and communities we serve.

This role is ideal for a mission-driven professional who has experience managing nonprofit programs and wants to work in a flexible, inclusive, and remote-first environment.

About [Organization Name]

[Organization Name] is a nonprofit working to [briefly describe mission or focus area, e.g., improve education access, support climate justice, strengthen health equity]. Our programs serve communities across [regions or countries] and are grounded in local partnerships, data-informed strategy, and long-term collaboration.

We’re a small but growing team, and we believe in building systems that reflect the values we advocate for: equity, transparency, accountability, and care. Our remote structure allows us to bring together diverse voices and experiences from around the world.

Responsibilities

  • Plan and manage one or more programs, ensuring they meet objectives and stay aligned with the organization’s mission and strategy
  • Develop program work plans, track timelines and deliverables, and coordinate across internal teams and external partners
  • Supervise program staff or consultants where relevant, creating a positive and inclusive team environment
  • Coordinate with operations, communications, and MEL (monitoring, evaluation, and learning) colleagues to ensure program needs are met
  • Maintain accurate documentation, budgets, and grant compliance across assigned programs
  • Lead or support regular reporting to donors, funders, and stakeholders, including both quantitative and narrative updates
  • Monitor program impact, gather community feedback, and identify opportunities to improve outcomes
  • Represent the organization in partner meetings, coalition calls, or external events related to your program areas

What We’re Looking For

This is not an entry-level position. We’re looking for someone who has experience managing nonprofit programs from planning through reporting and who understands how to adapt and thrive in a remote team. You might have worked in international development, social services, humanitarian aid, health equity, education, or a related field.

You’re probably the kind of person who builds checklists without being asked, finds energy in organizing people around a shared goal, and knows when to ask for help. You balance structure with flexibility, and you care deeply about doing work that is ethical, collaborative, and meaningful.

Required Skills and Experience

  • At least 3 years of experience managing programs, projects, or initiatives in a nonprofit or mission-driven setting
  • Demonstrated ability to coordinate multi-stakeholder programs with clear timelines, budgets, and outcomes
  • Strong project management skills and comfort using digital tools like Asana, Notion, or Airtable
  • Familiarity with MEL practices and a thoughtful approach to data collection and reflection
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, especially across cultures and time zones
  • Experience working remotely and managing your own schedule, priorities, and deliverables
  • Commitment to equity and inclusion in program design, implementation, and team culture

Nice to Have

  • Experience working in or alongside communities affected by the issues your programs address
  • Previous experience supervising remote staff or consultants
  • Language skills beyond English
  • Familiarity with donor reporting requirements or working on grant-funded programs
  • Lived experience that informs your approach to leadership and collaboration

Compensation and Benefits

This is a remote position open to candidates worldwide. The salary range for this role is $60,000 to $85,000 USD per year, or equivalent based on location and experience.

We benchmark compensation against nonprofit averages from sources like Glassdoor.

In addition to salary, we offer:

  • Flexible working hours across time zones
  • 4+ weeks of paid time off, including holidays
  • Health and wellness stipend or insurance support
  • Professional development budget
  • Laptop and tech setup support for remote work
  • Optional coworking or internet reimbursement

Exact benefits may vary depending on location and employment type.

How to Apply

To apply, please submit your resume and a brief cover letter outlining why you’re interested in the role and how your background aligns with what we’re looking for. You can also include a portfolio, link to your website, or anything else that helps us understand your experience.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. We encourage you to apply early.


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