Program Manager- Metro Detroit Restorative Justice Network (MDRJN)

About the Detroit Justice Center

Launched in 2018, DJC works alongside communities to create economic opportunities, transform the justice system, and promote equitable and just cities. This mission requires innovative ways of community lawyering and movement lawyering—rooted in defensive and offensive fights for racial justice and economic equity—that build up our poorest residents through direct services and novel approaches to land use, housing, and employment. DJC has established a set of values to guide our work, and we seek to add someone to our team who will deeply align with our values.

At DJC, we envision a just city where we have shifted our abundance away from jails, prisons, and policing and into actual community safety, where affordable, accessible housing is the norm instead of foreclosures and displacement, and where we have a thriving solidarity economy, and communities set the agenda for development in their neighborhoods. We envision a just Detroit—rooted in solidarity, compassion, and care—and are fighting hard with our partners to make it real. 

About the Role

The Program Manager will oversee and expand the Metro Detroit Restorative Justice Network (MDRJN). This role involves mobilizing and empowering network members, facilitating transformative restorative justice training sessions, and ensuring the sustainability of MDRJN through community partnerships. The Program Manager will drive systemic change to ensure the widespread adoption of restorative justice practices across communities, institutions, and policies.

Key Responsibilities

Network Management & Facilitation

• Lead annual strategic planning for MDRJN, assessing progress toward previous goals and adjusting goals as necessary.
• Develop, explore, and implement strategies to deepen and strengthen partnerships with grassroots organizations, justice-impacted individuals, schools, and policymakers.
• Facilitate engaging and inclusive meetings, trainings, and community circles that foster dialogue and relationship-building.
• Recruit, engage, and sustain authentic relationships with MDRJN members.
• Lead and manage monthly MDRJN meetings, ensuring productive discussions and strategy alignment.
• Communicate program updates to the internal communications team for dissemination.
• Restorative Justice Training & Community Engagement
• Plan and lead Restorative Justice Facilitator Training sessions using participatory and relationship-centered approaches.
• Implement a facilitator development model to equip community members to lead restorative justice practices.
• Create an inclusive and trust-based learning environment where participants feel empowered to engage.
• Facilitate community circles and conflict resolution dialogues that prioritize healing and accountability. 
• Develop opportunities for continued engagement and learning for training cohorts, such as community gatherings and additional training sessions.

Development & Financial Oversight

• Work with the Development team to assist with grant and funder proposals to support restorative justice initiatives.
• Oversee program finances and administration, working closely with the finance team to track expenditures and ensure fiscal accountability.

Community Representation & Advocacy

• Serve as a thoughtful and intentional representative of MDRJN in community spaces, advocating for restorative justice initiatives.
• Engage in community events, panels, and gatherings to uplift MDRJN’s mission and strengthen partnerships.
• Participate in internal staff meetings to align MDRJN’s mission with DJC’s broader organizational goals.

Experience & Knowledge

• Minimum 4 years of experience in program administration, community organizing, social services, policy advocacy, or a related field.
• Background in social work, public policy, education, community development, criminal justice, or a similar field is strongly preferred.
• Experience in policy advocacy, particularly in restorative justice, criminal justice reform, or community-based alternatives to incarceration preferred.
• Strong knowledge of restorative justice principles and practices, with experience leading or supporting restorative justice initiatives.
• Experience in trauma-informed approaches and working with justice-impacted individuals or communities.
• Familiarity with Detroit’s grassroots community networks and restorative justice ecosystem.

Key Competencies

• Exceptional facilitation skills – leading interactive sessions, holding space for diverse perspectives, and adapting to group dynamics.
• Relational leadership – able to build deep, authentic connections with community members and partners.
• Strong program management skills with the ability to execute programs efficiently, prioritize tasks, and meet tight deadlines.
• Commitment to racial, economic, and social justice and alignment with DJC’s mission and values.
• Success in leading and working independently with minimal supervision while staying accountable to program goals and timelines.

Why Join DJC?

• Lead transformational justice work that expands restorative justice practices and reduces reliance on punitive systems.
• Empower and mobilize a network of restorative justice practitioners, supporting community-driven approaches to addressing harm.
• Engage in policy advocacy and systems change, advancing non-carceral solutions to harm and conflict across municipalities.
• Collaborate with grassroots organizations and directly impacted communities to reimagine justice and build community-led alternatives.
• Work-Life Balance: We value sustainability, staff well-being, and a supportive work environment.

The target salary range for this role is $72,000.  DJC operates a four-day workweek, prioritizing work-life balance and the well-being of our team. In addition to a competitive base salary, we offer a comprehensive benefits package, including 96% employer-paid health coverage, retirement match, 10 paid holidays, generous PTO, and centering days dedicated to rest and rejuvenation.

At DJC, we are committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace. We understand that candidates from marginalized and underrepresented communities—especially women and communities of color—may hesitate to apply for positions if they do not meet every single qualification listed. We strongly encourage people of color, women, LGBTQIA individuals, people with disabilities, and those impacted by the criminal legal system to apply. You may be the right candidate for this position or other opportunities at DJC. We believe diverse perspectives and experiences are critical to driving justice and equity in our work.

Application Instructions: To apply, please submit a resume and cover letter through our careers website to apply for this role. Please describe your interest in DJC’s mission, values, and relevant experiences in your cover letter.

Salary : $72,000