The Montana Campus Network for Civic Engagement (MCNCE) invites applications for an AmeriCorps Planning Grant Coordinator to work with partner colleges and universities, and K-12 schools to support the development of a new AmeriCorps program focused on addressing educational needs across the state. The position will spearhead the AmeriCorps planning effort by working with campuses and partners for the duration of the grant.

The Planning Grant Coordinator will be responsible for managing the planning grant activities from start to finish. This role includes facilitating stakeholder engagement, conducting needs assessments, coordinating work groups, documenting processes, and drafting program design materials. The coordinator will ensure the planning process is inclusive, data-informed, and aligned with MCNCE’s mission and AmeriCorps compliance standards.

This position requires substantial in-state overnight travel up to 25% of the time. In addition to statewide travel to Montana colleges, universities and schools, three (3) trainings/events will be required to attend.

MCNCE was awarded an AmeriCorps State Planning Grant to develop and implement a new AmeriCorps program. Organizations that receive funding are required to work with the Governor’s Office of Community Service (OCS) for the duration of the grant to develop a program design and ultimately submit a grant proposal for this initiative as well as working with MCNCE staff to learn about and develop the systems to support an AmeriCorps program.

*This is a one (1) year grant-funded position and continued employment is dependent on grant funding. *

• Lead program development, define service and program structure, develop and submit an AmeriCorps grant proposal
• Facilitate meetings with MCNCE campus and community partners to conduct needs assessments to help support the development of a program proposal
• Work closely with the Governor’s Office of Community Service staff (GOCS) to meet required planning grant benchmarks
• Identify program partners and service locations, including development of member and host site training strategies
• Reach out and conduct information gathering sessions with each of the 18 affiliate campuses in Montana, including partners and community members (will require travel)
• Document and assess target audience needs and opportunities where programs can address educational needs in Montana to provide community benefit and evidence for an AmeriCorps service intervention
• Develop a logic model and identify performance measures as per AmeriCorps definition
• Develop and update procedures for member recruitment and program management, member position descriptions in compliance with AmeriCorps; Develop member onboarding plan and procedures
• Develop program impact data gathering plan and procedure to track and measure member and program impact

• Bachelor’s degree in public administration, nonprofit management, education, social sciences, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• Experience with grant writing
• Strong facilitation and communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders
• Skilled in developing and managing a budget
• A valid driver’s license and ability to travel long-distance
• Ability to problem solve and access resources in a complex environment
• Experience in needs assessments, program planning, and outcomes measurements
• Highly organized, with the ability to produce clear reports and program documents
• Commitment to national service, civic engagement, and inclusive community partnerships
• Ability to pass a National Service Criminal History Check

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree
• Experience in program development/management program evaluation
• Previous experience working with AmeriCorps programming or other service-based organization
• Experience living or working with rural, tribal, or underserved populations in Montana

Position Number: NEW

Compensation Title: Program Manager I

Work Schedule: Full-time, 1.0 FTE (40 Hours a week), Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, September 2025- August 2026

Probationary Period: Six (6) months minimum

Benefits Include: Insurance package, mandatory retirement plan, partial tuition waiver, and wellness program.

*This is a one (1) year grant-funded position and continued employment is dependent on grant funding. *

Screening of applications will begin after the closing date; however, applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established.

A complete application includes:

1. Letter of Interest – addressing your qualifications and experience related to the stated required skills for the position. A general letter salutation such as “Dear Search Committee” or “Dear Hiring Manager” is acceptable.
2. Detailed Resume – listing education and describing work experience
3. Three (3) Professional References – names and contact information

The University of Montana is interested in receiving applications from people who would assist the University in demonstrating its five priorities for action: Place student success at the center of all we do; drive excellence and innovation in teaching, learning, and research; embody the principle of “mission first, people always"; partner with place; and proudly tell the UM story.

Must be eligible to work in the United States upon hire. Sponsorship is not available for this position.

The Affiliation of the University of Montana (UM Affiliation) is an equal opportunity employer. UM Affiliation does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of protected class status as described in UM’s non-discrimination policy and any applicable law. Reasonable accommodations are provided in the hiring process for persons with disabilities. For example, this material is available in alternative format upon request. Qualified candidates may request veterans’ or disabilities preference in accordance with state law.

Criminal Background Investigation is required prior to the offer of employment. In accordance with university regulations, finalists for this position will be subject to criminal background investigations.

References: References not listed on the application materials may be contacted; notice may be provided to the applicant. UM partners with SkillSurvey for reference checking. Applicants may receive emails from SkillSurvey to submit reference information.

Testing: Individual hiring departments withing the UM Affiliation may elect to administer pre-employment tests, which are relevant to essential job functions.

Employment Eligibility: All New Employees must be eligible and show employment eligibility verification by the first date of employment at UM and all affiliated campuses, as legally required (e.g., Form I-9).