Program Manager

The Bell is seeking an experienced and driven Program Manager to support the launch of our new student journalism program in Jackson, Mississippi. This role requires a proactive individual who will take ownership of building and maintaining relationships with local high schools, community organizations, and media outlets, while supporting high school students in learning how to report on local news. The ideal candidate has a deep passion for journalism, experience in youth development, and a strong understanding of Jackson’s local landscape.

This person will work closely with The Bell’s executive director and local media partners to launch a pilot program that will take place from mid-December to May with approximately 10 students from local high schools. They should be quick to communicate, eager to learn, and ready to support students with any needs that arise.

At the conclusion of the program, there may be an opportunity for the role to grow into a full-time position.

Key Responsibilities

• Program Development and Coordination: Implement the program’s curriculum and structure, ensuring alignment with The Bell’s mission and goals. Tailor content to meet the needs of local high school students and the community.
• Community and School Partnerships: Build and maintain strategic relationships with local schools, nonprofits, and media outlets to support program implementation and amplify student voices in the local news ecosystem.
• Journalism Training and Workshops: Coordinate and facilitate training sessions focused on journalistic reporting, writing, and audio storytelling. Engage experienced journalists and media professionals as guest instructors and mentors.
• Student Mentorship: Provide ongoing mentorship, feedback, and support to help students produce meaningful journalism.
• Supervise Student News Production: Manage student reporting projects, guiding them through the process of identifying story ideas, conducting interviews, writing, editing, and producing content.
• Administrative Oversight: Manage program logistics, communications, and scheduling. Ensure all operational aspects of the program are executed smoothly and on time.
• Impact Evaluation: Monitor student progress and gather data on program outcomes. Use feedback to refine and improve the program.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in youth development, journalism, education, or a related field.
• Strong understanding of the journalism industry, with experience in reporting, writing, or media production.
• Demonstrated experience leading or managing educational programs, preferably working with high school students or young adults.
• Proven ability to build partnerships with schools, community organizations, and local media.
• Strong project management skills, with the ability to balance multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Deep knowledge of Jackson’s local community, media landscape, and issues affecting young people.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with a collaborative and inclusive approach to working with diverse groups.
• Strong commitment to The Bell’s mission of centering youth voices and advancing equity in media.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in audio journalism, with a focus on storytelling.
• Knowledge of nonprofit management, grant writing, or fundraising is a plus.

Hours and Location

This is a part-time hourly role (approximately 25 hours per week) with mandatory in-person hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12–6 p.m. at The Bell’s office in downtown Jackson. Remote work on other days of the week is subject to negotiation.

Compensation and Benefits

At least $25, and up to $32 per hour, depending on experience.

This is a grant-funded position and does not include health or retirement benefits. It has the potential to grow into a full-time staff role with comprehensive benefits.

How to Apply

To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter explaining your interest in the role and your connection to the Jackson community to hiring@bellvoices.org. Use the subject line Application for Mississippi Program Manager.

We will review applications on a rolling basis, with a priority deadline of November 22. We encourage candidates from diverse backgrounds and experiences to apply.