We’re launching a Nashville-based initiative focused on helping military veterans successfully transition into meaningful civilian careers. We’re looking for a project manager who is deeply embedded in veteran communities and who truly understands the realities of navigating the military-to-civilian workforce transition. Unlike many traditional non-profit roles, this position requires someone who can operate in “startup mode”: fast-paced, metrics-driven, proactive, and comfortable with ambiguity. You’ll be responsible for turning a mission into measurable outcomes — job placements, employer partnerships, and veteran success stories — while coordinating across community organizations, employers, and veteran-serving groups. Key ResponsibilitiesProgram & Project Management- Own the end-to-end delivery of the Nashville veteran transition project, from planning and launch to execution and continuous improvement.- Develop a detailed project plan with clear milestones, KPIs, and timelines (e.g., veterans served, placement rates, time-to-placement).- Coordinate daily activities across internal teams, community partners, and employers to keep the project on track.- Monitor progress, identify risks or bottlenecks, and implement solutions quickly. Veteran & Community Engagement- Build and maintain strong relationships with veteran-serving organizations (VSOs), military installations, Guard/Reserve units, higher ed programs, and local veteran networks.- Serve as a visible, trusted point of contact for veterans entering or exploring the civilian workforce.- Gather continuous feedback from veterans on their experience, and use it to refine services, workshops, and support. Employer & Partner Management- Develop and manage a pipeline of employer partners in the Nashville area and beyond who are committed to hiring veterans.- Work with employers to understand role requirements and translate military experience into civilian-friendly profiles.- Coordinate hiring events, info sessions, and workshops with employers and community partners. Data, Reporting & Results- Set and track clear performance metrics (e.g., placements, job retention at 90/180 days, employer satisfaction).- Prepare regular reports and updates for leadership, funders, and key stakeholders.- Use data to make decisions, refine the program, and demonstrate impact. Operations & Process Improvement- Design and refine workflows that are efficient and scalable, not just “good enough for now.”- Create repeatable processes for outreach, intake, career coaching, and employer engagement.- Document best practices and lessons learned to inform future projects or expansion to other cities. Experience & Background- 4–7+ years of experience in project management, program management, workforce development, talent/HR, or a related field.- Direct experience working with veterans or the military community (e.g., military service, National Guard/Reserve, military spouse/partner, or substantial professional experience with veteran-serving organizations).- Strong understanding of the military-to-civilian transition — including challenges around translating skills, navigating benefits, managing identity shifts, and entering the civilian job market.- Experience working with or alongside non-profits and comfort operating in a fast-paced, results-oriented environment (startup, consulting, or similarly dynamic setting). Skills & Competencies- Proven ability to own outcomes, not just activities — comfortable being accountable for specific targets and results.- Exceptional relationship-building skills across diverse stakeholders: veterans, community organizations, employers, funders.- Strong organizational and project management skills: you can juggle many moving parts and still hit deadlines.- Comfortable working under pressure, adapting quickly, and making decisions with incomplete information.- Excellent communication skills — able to speak both “military” and “corporate,” translating between the two worlds.- Data-literate: confident using spreadsheets or basic tools to track KPIs and report on progress. What You'll Bring (Nice to Have)- PMP, CAPM, or other project management certification.- Experience in workforce development, recruiting, career coaching, or HR.- Prior work in the Nashville ecosystem (employers, non-profits, workforce boards, veteran groups).- Experience launching or scaling new programs, pilots, or initiatives from scratch.