Project Manager

About Heart of America:

Heart of America (HOA) is a national nonprofit organization that has provided high-quality education resources and transformed spaces in under-resourced schools into modern learning environments so that students and communities can learn and grow. Over the past 28 years, HOA has served more than 2.5 million students in need by distributing more than 4.4 million books, infusing $14.3 million in technology, and transforming nearly 1,400 community libraries, cafeterias, gymnasiums, college and career centers, tech labs, and many more educational spaces across North America.

At HOA, we look for people who work with their heads AND their hearts. Talent is essential, but talent is not enough. We are looking for people who are passionate about our mission and goals and who are committed to an organizational culture based on compassion, integrity, respect and cooperation.

HOA provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

Job Location: Hybrid/Remote in one of HOA’s priority markets, including Washington DC, Baltimore, MD, Twin Cities, MN, New York, NY, Philadelphia, PA, Chicago, IL, San Antonio, TX, Las Vegas, NV, and Navajo Nation (must have proximity to major US airport)

Travel Requirement: Up to 40%

Job Description:

Project Execution

1. Lead multiple concurrent projects, managing timelines, deliverables, logistics, and budgets.
2. Coordinate with internal teams (Design, Procurement, Marketing, Operations).
3. Develop and manage construction schedule with Innovation team and oversee contractors as needed.
4. Work with the Procurement Team to order and track all technology, books, furniture and supplies for all projects.
5. Oversee on-site activities including setup, volunteer management, and event execution.
6. Organize travel arrangements for participating team, including flight, lodging, and local transportation.
7. Maintain accurate records for budget tracking, contracts, shipping, and deliverables.

Stakeholder Engagement & Customer Service

1. Serve as the main point of contact for school and community partners, sponsors, and vendors.
2. Provide outstanding customer service and ensure overall HOA program excellence.
3. Provide clear guidance, resources, and consistent communication throughout the project. Clearly outline expectations of program recipient and timeline.
4. Host regular check-ins to ensure tasks and timelines are clear and overall program objectives are being met, provide progress updates; ensure partner satisfaction.

Team & Volunteer Leadership

1. Lead and manage volunteers, temporary staff, and local participants (5–200+ per event).
2. Clearly communicate roles and responsibilities, provide day-of leadership and troubleshooting.
3. Ensure a high-energy, mission-aligned experience for all stakeholders.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

1. Participate in weekly planning calls and strategy sessions with cross-functional HOA teams.
2. Clearly articulate project needs, timelines, and deliverables.
3. Support the integration of branding, media coordination, and partner materials.
4. Provide input into design for revitalized educational spaces.
5. Collect and coordinate VIP invitations.

Process & System Mastery

1. Use HOA tools and platforms accurately.
2. Follow established project management processes.
3. Contribute to internal documentation and knowledge sharing.
4. Identify and initiate innovative project/program solutions and efficiencies to improve outcomes and results.

Additional Duties

1. Provide hands-on project support: inventorying supplies, moving/building furniture, painting, installing artwork/flooring, etc.
2. Assist with other HOA projects as needed, including supporting fellow Project Managers.

Minimum Qualifications and Competencies:

• 2–4 years of experience in project or event management, preferably in nonprofit or education settings.
• Experience leading community-based initiatives or volunteer-driven projects.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects with attention to detail and accountability.
• Proven record of managing program budgets.
• Event management for medium to large-scale events.
• Experience with volunteer management and support.
• Experience building and establishing relationships with organization stakeholders.

Required Skills and Abilities:

• Highly organized and able to manage multiple projects and priorities and meet deadlines.
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Collaborative problem-solver who thrives in fast-paced environments.
• Comfortable leading public presentations and engaging with diverse stakeholders.
• Integrity, positive attitude, mission-driven, and self-directed.
• Willing to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends on occasion as required.
• Technologically proficient (Microsoft Office Suite; familiarity with PM tools a plus).
• Basic DIY/light construction skills a plus.
• Able to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Valid driver’s license required. Ability to drive a mini-van or SUV.