Program Manager / Operations Manager

Program Manager / Operations Manager

Location: New Jersey 07041 (On-site; office may relocate to New York)

Organization: China Labor Watch

Application Deadline: May 15, 2026. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and the position may be filled before the deadline.

About Us

China Labor Watch is a New York-based nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing labor rights in global supply chains through independent investigations, policy advocacy, and media engagement.

Our work spans China, Southeast Asia, and Europe. We collaborate with U.S. enforcement agencies, European regulatory bodies, and international media to drive meaningful impact in human rights and supply chain accountability.

Position Overview

We are seeking a highly capable and execution-oriented Program Manager to support the implementation of multiple international projects.

This is a core role within the organization. You will work closely with the Executive Director to drive projects forward, coordinate across teams, and ensure that key priorities are executed effectively.

This role is best suited for individuals who are proactive, detail-oriented, and comfortable taking ownership in a fast-paced and evolving environment. You will have direct visibility into organizational priorities and the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to projects with international impact.

Project Environment

China Labor Watch currently operates with an annual budget of approximately $1 million and manages several long-term projects alongside shorter-term initiatives.

The work environment includes:

• Managing multiple projects simultaneously
• Working with a small project team of approximately five staff members, along with consultants and part-time contributors
• Engaging across investigations, report writing, and policy-related work
• Operating in a dynamic environment with continuously evolving information
• Coordinating both internal teams and external stakeholders

Success in this role requires strong prioritization skills, the ability to maintain momentum, and the capacity to bring structure to complex workflows.

Reporting Line

• Reports directly to the Executive Director
• Works closely with internal team members and external partners

Key Responsibilities

1. Project Management & Execution

• Manage and advance multiple projects, including investigations, reports, and policy-related work
• Develop and maintain project timelines
• Define priorities and track task execution
• Support monitoring and evaluation (M&E) processes
• Identify challenges proactively and propose solutions to ensure smooth project delivery

1. Progress Tracking & Coordination

• Establish and maintain project management systems (e.g., Notion, Airtable, Asana)
• Track progress of team members and external collaborators
• Ensure alignment on timelines and deliverables
• Maintain consistent follow-through and execution

1. Operations & Administrative Support

• Support the Executive Director in daily operations and priority management
• Coordinate meetings, travel arrangements, and internal communications
• Ensure smooth internal information flow

1. Reporting & Documentation

• Assist in preparing donor reports
• Organize and edit research materials and internal documentation
• Support policy communications and media-related preparation

1. Grant Applications & Project Renewal

• Research new funding opportunities
• Draft grant proposals and collaborate with stakeholders to define project goals
• Support administrative processes for project renewals

1. Stakeholder Management & Communication

• Participate in and help facilitate meetings with government agencies, media, and civil society organizations
• Represent the organization in relevant engagements when appropriate
• Support the organization of annual board meetings

Work Style & Tools

This role requires a structured, tools-driven approach:

• Ability to organize and manage multiple projects using digital tools
• Familiarity with project management platforms
• Experience using AI tools for research, analysis, or content support is preferred
• Ability to review, verify, and refine AI-generated outputs

Qualifications

Required

• 3–7 years of relevant experience (nonprofit, consulting, research, legal, or policy fields)
• Excellent bilingual communication skills in English and Chinese (written and verbal), with the ability to write and communicate in professional, policy, or research contexts
• Strong ability to work independently
• Excellent organizational and time management skills
• Availability to attend meetings outside regular working hours when necessary
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally on occasion
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively

Preferred

• Experience in labor rights, human rights, supply chains, or ESG
• Familiarity with U.S. or EU policy and advocacy frameworks
• Experience working on international projects
• Chinese language proficiency (required)

What We Value

We are looking for candidates who:

• Take ownership and consistently drive work forward
• Communicate clearly and collaborate effectively
• Demonstrate sound judgment in complex situations
• Are motivated by impact and a strong sense of responsibility

Additional Information

Position Type

This is an exempt position, with a focus on outcomes and deliverables. Working hours may vary based on project needs.

Work Environment

Some projects involve sensitive labor issues in complex environments. Candidates must be able to handle information responsibly and maintain professional communication.

(This role does not involve fieldwork in high-risk locations.)

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary: $70,000 – $100,000 (commensurate with experience)
• Health insurance (medical and dental)
• 401(k) retirement plan
• 11 public holidays per year
• 10 days of paid annual leave
• 5 days of paid sick leave
• Up to 4 weeks of unpaid leave (subject to approval)
• Opportunity to work on projects with international impact
• Collaborative and mission-driven team environment

How to Apply

If you meet around 70% of the qualifications, we strongly encourage you to apply.Please send your resume and a brief cover letter (both in English and Chinese are required) to:

Amelia@chinalaborwatch.org

Subject Line:

Program Manager Application – [Your Name]

Chinese