Project Manager for Black Hills Reads/United Way of the Black Hills

Reports To: Director of Black Hills Reads

Job Type: Full-Time 

Salary Range: 45,000 – 50,000 

Overview:

We are seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic Project Manager to support and drive initiatives related to the Black Hills Reads program and Early Learner Rapid City. The Black Hills Reads initiative is the umbrella for all the UWBH’s early education efforts as well as part of the National Campaign for Grade-Level Reading. Early Learner Rapid City is a community of Early Learner South Dakota — a community-driven grassroots effort, bringing awareness and support to the importance of how access to a variety of quality early learning environments impact our community’s future. The ideal candidate will be enthusiastic about connecting with diverse stakeholders, fostering partnerships, and spearheading an impactful awareness campaign to enhance literacy and education among children and families.

Job Summary:

The Project Manager is responsible for assisting in the planning, execution, and completion of projects for both Black Hills Reads and Early Learner Rapid City. Time will be split 50/50 between the two responsibilities. There is overlap between the two tasks as they are similar in nature. This role involves coordinating resources, managing schedules, and communicating with various stakeholders to ensure that projects are completed on time, within scope, and within budget. 

Key Responsibilities:

Early Learner Rapid City (ELRC) Tasks & Responsibilities

• Provide leadership to ELRC committees in collaboration with a volunteer co-chair. 
• Represent the ELRC initiative at community events and support related outreach. 
• Support the recruitment of committee members and community partners. 
• Facilitate project planning and implementation of ELCAT objectives. 
• Coordinate the action steps of the ELRC strategic plan through goal completion. 
• Align and coordinate volunteer efforts and activities in collaboration with co-chair. 
• Maintain progress tracking documents for the initiative. 
• Implement and monitor practice in alignment with ELRC policy and structure.

Black Hills Reads (BHR) Tasks & Responsibilities

• Develop project plans, including timelines, milestones, and resource allocation to support the implementation of community-level early literacy solutions. 
• Represent the BHR initiative at community events and support related outreach.  
• Coordinate and collaborate with community partners, committee and team members, vendors, and other stakeholders to ensure project tasks are completed as planned.  
• Manage project schedules, including setting up meetings, tracking deadlines, and ensuring timely delivery of project components.  
• Serve as a point of contact for project updates, providing regular status reports to stakeholders, partners, and management. 
• Maintain project documentation including meeting minutes and status reports.  
• Assist in monitoring project budgets, ensuring that expenses are tracked and aligned with project goals. 
• Provide administrative support in the development and implementation of the initiative.

Qualifications:

Education: Bachelor’s degree in business, Project Management, or related field preferred. 

Experience: 2 years of experience in project coordination, administration, or a related role.

Skills:

• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities 
• Excellent communication and people skills 
• Proficiency in project management software (e.g., Wrike, Microsoft Project, Asana, Trello) 
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team 
• Meticulous with a focus on quality and accuracy 
• Proven ability to follow up diligently and maintain strong, lasting relationships with partners and communities. 
• Certifications: PMP, CAPM, or similar certifications are a plus.

Application Process:

To apply, please submit a cover letter and resume to hanna@unitedwayblackhills.org highlighting your relevant experience and explaining your passion for supporting literacy and educational campaigns. 

We encourage all qualified candidates, including those from diverse backgrounds, to apply.