Nonprofit Medical Program Manager (RN) - Program Leadership Role (San Diego)

Fresh Start Surgical Gifts is seeking a Nonprofit Medical Program Manager (RN) to lead and oversee the planning, coordination, and execution of its medical programs in San Diego. Based out of our offices in Carlsbad, CA, this role focuses on program operations, leadership, team coordination, and patient experience across Surgery Weekends and related services. Since 1991, Fresh Start Surgical Gifts has been a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming the lives of children with physical deformities through the gift of reconstructive surgery and comprehensive medical care—provided at no cost to patients and families.

The Medical Program Manager serves as a key leader within the organization, ensuring programs run efficiently, partnerships are strengthened, and patients receive high-quality, compassionate medical care. This individual works closely with staff, volunteers, and medical partners to support the successful delivery of services and the continued growth of the program. Unlike traditional nursing roles, this position is not centered on shift-based bedside care.

Instead, it offers the opportunity to apply clinical expertise in a leadership capacity—overseeing programs, coordinating multidisciplinary teams, and shaping the systems that make life-changing medical care possible. The role includes meaningful, hands-on involvement during Surgery Weekends, while maintaining a consistent and sustainable structure across all programs. Leads the Medical Program team and oversees delivery of services in San Diego.

Provides ad hoc support to other operating areas as assigned by the Chief Medical Programs Officer (CMPO). Plans and oversees activities, personnel, and operations for Surgery Weekends, Unbranded For a Fresh Start Services, and Dental Clinics. Participates on the management team and contributes to organizational strategy.

Represent Fresh Start Surgical Gifts to recruit volunteers, facilities, and patients. Develop and maintain Medical Program policies and procedures with CMPO and program managers. Analyze program performance and plan for growth to enhance the experience of volunteers, staff, patients, families, visitors, and donors.

Support efficient patient scheduling (consultations, evaluations, diagnostics, surgery, laser treatments, speech therapy, dental). Coordinate volunteer staffing for Surgery Weekends with the Director of Volunteer Services. ensure alignment with partner hospital policies and training. Maintain training incident logs; Lead outreach and presentations to strengthen partnerships with hospitals and providers.

Coordinate Surgery Weekends with the Medical Operations Manager, including patient care and follow-up. Oversee post-operative medication and supply scheduling with the overnight nurse before each event. Recommend CMPO review of immigration visas, lodging exceptions, and other patient provisions with the Director of Volunteer Services.

Establish automated audit reports and monthly remediation plans to ensure chart quality. Keep skills checklists and training documents current for all staff involved in direct care and unbranded services. Serve as the FS compliance and communication liaison with Operative Charge Nurses; provide expert support in PACU and Pre-Op (partner hospital staff deliver nursing care).

Oversee case manager screening for prospective patients in accordance with telephone protocol. Prepare monthly performance reports highlighting improvements, opportunities, and key wins; Collaborate with Program Managers across sites to align and standardize processes. Provide staff support and facilitate Medical Program Committee meetings.

Demonstrate courtesy, positivity, and cooperation with volunteers, staff, and medical center personnel. Draft annual reviews of the Medical Department in San Diego; Reports to the Chief Medical Programs Officer. Attends Medical Program Committee meetings.

Partners with the Medical Operations Manager (who supervises MAs and ancillary personnel). Directly supervises RN staff within the Medical Program. Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing Current Registered Nursing (RN) license Strong management and prioritization across multiple initiatives.

Problem analysis and resolution at strategic and operational levels. Employee training and development. Spanish language skills a plus; Proficiency with EHR and Microsoft Office; training available to enhance skills.

High-performance team builder and collaborator. The employee may perform other related duties in accordance with the Board’s mission, policies, and directives. The description may be reviewed and revised periodically and is not a written or implied contract.

Nothing in this document alters an employee’s at-will employment status. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race (including traits historically associated with race, such as hair texture and protective hairstyles, including braids, locks, and twists), ethnicity, religion, religious creed (including religious dress and grooming practices), color, caste, sex (including childbirth, breast feeding, and related medical conditions), gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, uniform service member and veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, age (40 and over), protected medical condition (including cancer and genetic conditions), genetic information, disability (mental and physical), reproductive health decision-making, medical leave or other types of protected leave (requesting or approved for leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act or the California Family Rights Act), domestic violence victim status, political affiliation, or any other protected status in accordance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws. This policy extends to all aspects of our employment practices including, but not limited to, recruiting, hiring, discipline, termination, promotions, transfers, compensation, benefits, training, leaves of absence, and other terms and conditions of employment.