Program Director – California 

Job Details 

Job Type: Full-time 

Location: San Diego, CA 

Work Environment: In-person, center-based leadership role with community engagement 

Description 

College Living Experience (CLE) is a comprehensive post-secondary transition program supporting young adults diagnosed with autism, AD/HD, and learning differences. CLE programs integrate academic support, independent living skills, social development, self-advocacy, and career preparation to help students transition successfully into adulthood. 

The Program Director is responsible for leading and coordinating all aspects of center operations. This role oversees programming, admissions collaboration, staffing, finances, student outcomes, and community partnerships while ensuring alignment with CLE standards and best practices. This position is ideal for a strategic, relationship-driven leader who enjoys managing teams, building programs, and making a meaningful impact on students and families. 

Are You a Leader Who Thrives in Building Programs and Supporting Students Holistically? 

As a Program Director, no two days look the same. One day, you may be reviewing budgets, supervising staff, or collaborating with admissions. On another day, you might be meeting with families, overseeing academic progress, or representing CLE in the community. Over time, your leadership directly shapes the student experience, staff culture, and operational success of the site. 

Why People Love Working at CLE 

Working at CLE means being part of a mission-driven organization focused on growth, collaboration, and impact. 

• You lead with purpose. Your work directly supports student success. 
• You shape a program. Program Directors influence culture, systems, and outcomes. 
• You collaborate broadly. Work closely with staff, families, admissions, and community partners. 
• You grow professionally. CLE values leadership development and innovation. 

What You’ll Do 

Program & Operational Leadership 

• Oversee daily operations including programming, staffing schedules, enrollment, and student outcomes 
• Establish and implement site goals aligned with organizational objectives 
• Monitor program effectiveness and ensure high-quality service delivery 

Financial & Administrative Oversight 

• Develop and manage site budgets, payroll statistics, and expenditures 
• Forecast revenues and monitor financial performance 
• Prepare and distribute financial and operational reports as required 
• Maintain compliance with CLE financial and quality assurance processes 

Admissions & Enrollment Collaboration 

• Collaborate with the transition support and admissions teams to manage inquiries and admissions workflows 
• Participate in information sessions and admissions meetings with prospective students and families 
• Assist in determining student fit and readiness for CLE programming 

Staff Supervision & Development 

• Recruit, hire, train, supervise, and evaluate staff including residential advisors, academic liaisons, tutors, psychologists, and administrative personnel 
• Conduct weekly staff meetings to ensure communication and alignment 
• Address performance concerns and support staff development 

Student & Family Engagement 

• Oversee academic progress reporting and parent communications 
• Maintain strong relationships with students, families, and funding sources 
• Attend parent meetings and respond promptly to inquiries 

Community & Partner Relations 

• Develop and maintain relationships with independent educational consultants, guidance counselors, transition coordinators, and community organizations 
• Represent CLE at professional conferences and community events 
• Serve as a liaison to educate the community about CLE programs and services 

Who Thrives in This Role 

• This role is a strong fit for experienced leaders who are organized, adaptable, and passionate about supporting neurodiverse students. 
• Successful Program Directors are strong communicators, effective managers, and confident decision-makers who balance student-centered leadership with operational accountability. 

What Makes This Role Unique 

• You lead an entire CLE center and shape its culture 
• You influence student outcomes and family satisfaction 
• You manage multidisciplinary teams 
• You combine education, leadership, and community engagement 

Benefits Include: 

• Health insurance 
• Dental insurance 
• Vision insurance 
• Health savings account (HSA) 
• Flexible spending account (FSA) 
• Life insurance 
• 401(k) 
• Paid time off 

Salary: $85,000 to $95,000 plus performance incentive 

Requirements Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s degree in Education or related field (Master’s or Ph.D. preferred) 
• Minimum of five years of management experience in a high school or post-secondary setting, preferably serving young adults with special needs 
• Demonstrated leadership, organizational, and communication skills 
• Knowledge of California Regional Centers strongly preferred 

Transportation Requirements 

• Valid state driver’s license with appropriate endorsement 
• Must meet organizational insurance requirements and successfully pass a motor vehicle record (MVR) check