As a Learning Program Manager supporting the Ground Operations Team, you'll lead the intake, analysis, and execution of learning initiatives that support frontline operational excellence across the network. You'll collaborate with Business and operational stakeholders to align training solutions with evolving workforce needs, ensuring programs are delivered efficiently and achieve measurable outcomes. This role is ideal for a self-starter who can manage multiple priorities, simplify complex challenges, and identify practical, low-cost solutions that enhance learning effectiveness, Team performance, and operational results.

Additional Details

• The culture of Southwest Airlines means we value the camaraderie, collaboration, and innovation that occurs when we come together and interact face-to-face at our vibrant Corporate Campus. Due to the nature of this role, you would be required to work from our Dallas, TX Headquarters facility during business hours.

• U.S. citizenship or current authorization to work in the U.S. required and no current or future work authorization sponsorship available.

We’re committed to fair hiring practices and to making employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, military or veteran status, disability, genetic information, or other legally protected characteristics.

Responsibilities

• Intake and triage new learning requests, evaluating scope, value, cost, and alignment with business goals

• Maintain and update learning programs using a lean, value-driven approach—cutting redundant or low-impact content

• Manage projects end-to-end using simple, effective project plans, ensuring on-time, on-budget delivery

• Use LMS to administer programs, track learner progress, manage compliance, and generate reporting

• Communicate effectively with internal stakeholders through Microsoft Outlook and Teams, keeping coordination tight and focused

• Identify opportunities to automate tasks, streamline workflows, and reduce manual work using tools like Jira or LMS features

• Track, document, and escalate risks proactively—mitigating potential issues before they impact delivery

• Monitor and manage program performance and resource usage to ensure cost-efficiency and measurable outcomes

• Continuously seek ways to improve process, reduce waste, and drive smarter execution across learning operations

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Strong working knowledge of learning management systems (LMS) and their practical use for program delivery, tracking, and reporting

• Proficient in project management tools (e.g., Jira, Trello, Smartsheet) for planning, tracking, and driving learning initiatives

• Skilled in Microsoft Outlook and Teams for communication, scheduling, and collaboration

• Ability to identify process inefficiencies and implement automation or streamlined solutions

• Ability to manage multiple projects or programs simultaneously without added complexity

• Clear, concise communicator who can align teams and stakeholders without over-communicating

• Ability to assess project and program value, eliminating low-impact efforts and focusing on ROI

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize and execute with minimal waste

• Analytical mindset to use feedback, data, and performance metrics to inform decisions

Education

• Required: High School Diploma or GED

Experience

• Required: Advanced-level experience, seasoned and specialized knowledge in:

  • Learning Program Management, Instructional Operations, or Project Coordination

  • Maintaining and evolving training programs in a fast-paced, cost-conscious environment

  • Executing projects from intake through delivery with a focus on speed and simplicity

  • Using LMS platforms and automating business processes to increase operational efficiency

  • Aligning with cross-functional teams and communicating with internal business partners

Licensing/Certification

• N/A

Physical Abilities

• Ability to perform work duties from [limited space work station/desk/office area] for extended periods of time

• Ability to communicate and interact with others in the English language to meet the demands of the job

• Ability to use a computer and other office productivity tools with sufficient speed and accuracy to meet the demands of the job

Other Qualifications

• Must maintain a well-groomed appearance per Company appearance standards as described in established guidelines

• Must be a U.S. citizen or have authorization to work in the United States as defined by the Immigration Reform Act of 1986

• Must be at least 18 years of age

• Must be able to comply with Company attendance standards as described in established guidelines

Pay & Benefits: 

• Competitive market salary from $103,750 per year to $115,300 per year* depending on qualifications and experience. For eligible Leadership and individual contributor roles, additional bonus opportunities are available and awarded at the discretion of the company.

Benefits you’ll love:    

• Fly for free, as a privilege, on any open seat on all Southwest flights (your eligible dependents too)  
• Southwest will help fund your Retirement Savings Plan with Company contributions up to 9.3% of your eligible earnings** 
• Potential for annual ProfitSharing contribution in the Southwest Retirement Savings Plan- when Southwest profits, you profit*** 
• Competitive health insurance for you and your eligible dependents (including pets) 
• Southwest offers health plan coverage options that start from the very first day of employment. You will have 30 days to select and enroll in your health plan with coverage retroactively available to your first day of employment. 
• Explore more Benefits you’ll love: Benefits | Southwest Careers

*Pay amount does not guarantee employment for any particular period of time.

**401(k) match contributions are subject to Retirement Savings Plan vesting schedule and applicable IRS limits

***ProfitSharing contributions are subject to Retirement Savings Plan vesting schedule and are made at the discretion of the Company.