Program Specialist

Job Title: Program Specialist

Department: Youth Leadership & Workforce Development

Program: Multiple

Reports to: Director of Youth Leadership & Workforce Development

Position Supervised: None

Employment Class: Full-Time/Regular/Exempt

Workdays: Monday - Friday (*workdays can vary based on programming needs)

Customary Hours: 8:30 to 5:00 (*hours can vary based on programming needs)

The Program Specialist will be responsible for the execution of all program activities and will assist in the identification, development and delivery of educational programs and initiatives; will ensure all are consistent with the mission, vision and values of the Columbus Urban League.

• Program Leadership & Implementation - Lead the planning, execution, and evaluation of program activities, ensuring strategic alignment with organizational priorities, funding requirements, and performance benchmarks.
• Participant Support & Development - Serve as the primary resource and advocate for program participants, delivering advanced guidance, tailored resources, and professional growth opportunities.
• Community & Stakeholder Partnerships - Develop and sustain strong, strategic relationships with community organizations, volunteers, funders, and external partners to expand program reach and impact.
• Event & Training Management - Oversee the planning and delivery of trainings, workshops, and events, including curriculum input, logistics oversight, and quality assurance of materials.
• Data & Documentation Management - Maintain accurate records, track program outcomes, and ensure compliance with program requirements.
• Marketing & Communications Support - Assist in the development and distribution of program materials, outreach campaigns, and newsletters to promote engagement.
• Budget Oversight & Resource Allocation - Monitor program budgets and ensure efficient use of resources and materials.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration - Partner with other departments to integrate services, share best practices, and leverage resources for maximum program effectiveness.
• Compliance & Quality Assurance - Ensure adherence to organizational policies, funding regulations, and safety standards.
• Program Evaluation & Innovation - Lead efforts to collect participant feedback, analyze trends, and recommend program enhancements for continuous improvement.
• Team & Volunteer Leadership - Coordinate, mentor, and provide direction to volunteers, interns, and program staff, fostering a high-performance and collaborative environment.

Other Duties as Assigned.

Keyword: Program Specialist
Required Experience:

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in business, nonprofit management, communications, or related field preferred.
• Equivalent experience may be considered in place of a degree.
• Willingness and ability to obtain other certifications as necessary.

Experience:

• 2-3 years of experience in program coordination, event management, or entrepreneurship support.
• Prior experience working in a nonprofit, social services, education, or workforce development organization.
• Experience organizing trainings, workshops, and special events, including handling logistics and registration.
• Previous experience facilitating effective communication between internal teams, community partners, and program participants.

Communication Skills:

• Ability to read, write, and speak English proficiently
• Effective and professional verbal and written communication skills
• Strong interpersonal and customer service skills
• Ability to work with individuals from all backgrounds with varying needs

Technology and Compliance:

• Proficiency with Microsoft 365 (MS Suite, Teams, OneDrive, SharePoint, etc.)
• Commitment to compliance and ethical standards
• Experience with videoconferencing systems (e.g., Webex, Zoom, Teams, etc.)

Time Management and Organization:

• Ensures accuracy, efficiency, and consistency across all tasks
• Works independently with the ability to handle multiple tasks
• Manages workload effectively and delivers results in a timely manner
• Ability to multitask, prioritize, and deliver under tight timelines

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk, hear, and see.
• The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to low.
• The employee is required to occasionally travel to different work sites and community events as needed.
• Professional business attire and appearance required.

From: Columbus Urban League