The Organization

SSG-Project 180 turns lives around through innovative, wraparound services that keep people out of institutions and in their communities. Project 180 is a leader in the forensic treatment space, offering high-quality, specialized treatment programs that serve thousands of justice-involved individuals. Our programs span criminal justice intercepts and include pre-arrest interventions, court-based diversions, jail in-reach, and intensive post-release services. Project 180 operates in partnership with County agencies including the Department of Mental Health (DMH), the Department of Health Services (DHS), and the Justice, Care and Opportunities Department (JCOD).

The Position:

The Data Systems Manager, reporting to the Senior Director, Quality and Outcomes, will lead the management, development, and optimization of Project 180’s no-code database platform (Knack), which supports core operational workflows, quality improvement initiatives and key performance indicators.

This role will ensure that data systems are reliable, secure, and designed to meet the complex needs of a nonprofit working within multiple Los Angeles County-funded programs. The position will collaborate closely with the Quality Improvement team and program leaders to design workflows, develop reporting tools, and drive data integrity across the organization.

The ideal candidate is a technical yet collaborative leader who is solutions-focused and proactive in problem-solving. They excel at bridging programmatic needs and technology, driving innovation and inspiring collaboration to design practical tools that advance data-driven decision-making and create meaningful impact in a behavioral health context.

Essential Functions:

Database Management & Workflow Development 

• Administer and maintain Knack, the organization’s no-code database, including database schema, integrations, roles, permissions, and performance optimization.
• Design and implement user-friendly forms, workflows, and automations to streamline program operations and reduce administrative burden on staff.
• Operate data transfers between Knack, County/EHR systems, and internal trackers; schedule recurring jobs and carry out necessary data transformations to keep systems aligned.
• Ensure system scalability to support organizational growth and evolving program requirements.
• Document database structures, workflows, and processes for internal reference and staff training.
• Configure Knack’s HIPAA plan features (user permissions, audit logging, backup routines) to ensure the database meets privacy and security standards.
   

Data Quality, Reporting, and Compliance 

• Collaborate with Quality Improvement Manager, Program Directors and Program Managers to develop reporting dashboards and tools that support compliance, quality assurance, and performance management.
• Establish and enforce data standards, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and timeliness of data entry across programs.
• Monitor and resolve data integrity issues, including duplicate records, incorrect mappings, and missing information.
• Support compliance with HIPAA and other data privacy regulations.
• Assist with audit preparation and data requests from organizational leaders, funders and regulatory bodies.
   

Cross-Functional Collaboration 

• Partner with program teams to understand operational workflows and translate them into database solutions.
• Act as a bridge between technical contractors, IT, and non-technical stakeholders to align on project priorities and system requirements.
• Provide technical training and ongoing support to staff with varying levels of digital literacy.
   

Innovation & Continuous Improvement 

• Stay informed about advancements in database technologies and recommend improvements.
• Identify opportunities to automate processes and improve data efficiency across the organization.
• Contribute to the organization’s long-term data strategy, including data warehouse and data pipeline development for longitudinal analysis.

Fulfill baseline Project 180 staff expectations.

• Regular attendance required. Holiday or weekend work may be required.
• Maintain and uphold Agency mission statement, values, policies, procedures, and principles.
• Perform other duties as needed.

Skills and Competencies

• Database Management & Workflow Development: Ability to design, administer, and maintain Knack database systems that are user-friendly, scalable, and aligned with program needs.
• Data Quality, Reporting & Compliance: Ensure accuracy, integrity, and compliance of data across programs while producing reliable dashboards and reporting tools.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration & Communication: Ability to effectively partner with program leaders, IT staff, and external contractors to translate operational needs into database solutions.
• Problem-Solving & Innovation: Proactively identify challenges, develop creative solutions, and leverage database tools to improve efficiency and effectiveness.
• Project Management: Plan, organize, and manage database-related projects from conception through completion, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and timely delivery.
• Organizational Alignment & Professionalism: Model Project 180’s mission and values while delivering consistent, reliable, and mission-aligned work.

Minimum Qualifications

• 3-5  years of hands-on experience with relational databases and managing data workflows.
• Understanding of data engineering concepts, including ETL processes, data pipelines, and data warehousing.
• Working knowledge of SQL and database design principles, and ability and motivation to deepen skills on the job.
• Familiarity with data reporting tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI, Looker) to support data visualization and reporting.
• Strong attention to detail with a proven track record of ensuring data integrity, accuracy, and relevance.
• Demonstrated ability to project manage technical and cross-functional projects, aligning data systems with programmatic needs.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to translate technical concepts for non-technical audiences.
• Collaborative mindset with the ability to engage stakeholders across technical and program teams. 
• Experience working with culturally diverse populations.
  • Valid CA driver’s license, proof of insurance and own vehicle required.  
• Must not be on any type of legal supervision (probation or parole).
• Verification of Employment Eligibility and Background Check
• Preferred: 
  • Experience with behavioral health, social services or medical fields
  • Experience designing and maintaining no-code/low-code database solutions (e.g., Knack, Airtable) to support scalable workflows.
  • Working knowledge of Python for ETL/automation.

Supervisory Responsibilities
None.

Environmental Conditions (Working Conditions)
Job duties are to be performed both in office and field settings, including Project 180’s interim housing sites.

Physical Requirements  
The employee is expected to move about the worksite throughout the day, which may involve walking, standing, and climbing stairs, or using a mobility device, or similar. The employee is expected to drive, carry a maximum of 20 lbs, listen, and speak in order to complete job requirements. 

Mental Requirements 
The employee must be able to do any/all of the following: perform complex and varied tasks such as synthesizing information and making decisions without immediate supervision; handle routine distractions, interruptions, noise, and uncontrollable changes in priorities/work schedules; interact professionally and diplomatically in high-stress situations; create and follow plans; meet deadlines.