Program Support Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

Position Overview

The Program Support Specialist provides direct support for workforce development and training programs serving Adult MDRS clients, Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) students, Work-Based Learning participants, and Re-Entry program participants. This position delivers structured retail and employment readiness training designed to develop workplace skills, promote independence, and prepare participants for competitive integrated employment.

The Program Support Specialist oversees daily participant activities, monitors attendance, evaluates skill development and performance, and identifies individual training needs. Working closely with Program Managers, retail management, and the Director of Mission Services, this role coordinates participant progress, supports individualized training plans, and facilitates successful completion of program goals and objectives.

This position is responsible for maintaining accurate participant records, ensuring timely completion of bi-weekly progress reports, participating in staffing and case review meetings, and ensuring compliance with MDRS requirements, funding source regulations, and organizational policies. The Program Support Specialist assists with the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of training curriculum, instructional materials, and learning activities while adapting instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners.

In addition, the Program Support Specialist supports community outreach and recruitment efforts by promoting workforce development services and engaging with schools, community partners, correctional facilities, referral sources, and other stakeholders throughout the service area. The position may provide training and program support across multiple locations and community settings.

This role requires strong organizational, communication, and instructional skills, as well as the ability to exercise independent judgment in participant support, program coordination, and training delivery while maintaining compliance with all applicable regulatory and organizational standards.

Essential Functions & Primary Duties

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Delivers workforce development, retail skills, digital literacy, customer service, and employment readiness training to Adult MDRS clients, Pre-ETS students, Work-Based Learning participants, Re-Entry participants, and other program populations.
• Oversees and coordinates the daily activities of assigned participants, ensuring alignment with individualized training plans and supporting successful skill development, goal attainment, and workplace readiness.
• Monitors participant attendance, engagement, performance, and progress; identifies barriers to success and communicates concerns to the Program Manager in a timely manner.
• Completes accurate and timely bi-weekly progress reports, monthly evaluations, attendance records, case notes, and other required participant documentation in compliance with MDRS, contractual, and organizational requirements.
• Participates in staffing meetings, case reviews, team meetings, training events, and professional development activities to support participant outcomes and maintain program effectiveness.
• Assists with participant intake, enrollment, orientation, assessments, data entry, and program completion tracking as assigned.
• Collaborates with Program Managers, retail management, workforce staff, educators, and community partners to coordinate participant training activities and ensure a positive learning environment.
• Assists in the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of training curriculum, instructional materials, and learning activities using adult learning principles, workforce best practices, and current labor market information.
• Adapts instructional methods, coaching techniques, and training materials to meet the needs of diverse learners, including individuals with disabilities and other populations facing barriers to employment.
• Maintains accurate participant records and ensures compliance with all applicable policies, procedures, funding source requirements, confidentiality standards, and regulatory guidelines.
• Travels to retail stores, schools, correctional facilities, community centers, rehabilitation programs, and other off-site locations to deliver services, recruit participants, conduct outreach activities, and promote workforce development programs.
• Represents Goodwill Industries of South Mississippi at community events, outreach activities, employer engagements, and speaking opportunities to increase awareness of mission services and workforce programs.
• Maintains training areas, equipment, and office spaces in a clean, safe, and organized condition; reports facility, safety, or technology concerns to appropriate leadership.
• Exercises sound judgment and professionalism while maintaining confidentiality and handling sensitive participant information.
• Safeguards company assets and promptly reports incidents, accidents, safety concerns, theft, fraud, waste, or misuse of company property.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Must possess required knowledge, skills, abilities, and experience and be able to explain and demonstrate, with or without reasonable accommodations, that the essential functions of the job can be performed.

• Ability to communicate proficiency
• The ability to drive results
• Initiative to motivate and succeed
• Customer/client focus
• Technical knowledge
• Knowledge of performance management guidelines
• Ability to train/supervise
• Problem solving/analysis
• Strong organizational skills

Additional Requirements

• Supports the mission and vision of Goodwill Industries of South Mississippi.
• Open availability.
• Maintains a valid driver's license.
• Working knowledge of computers, including Microsoft Office Suite.
• Promotes and demonstrates ethical practices in all activities.
• Promotes a safe work environment and meets all CARF requirements

Education and Experience

Associate degree or equivalency mandatory. Minimum of 3-5 years related experience in educational practice, workforce development, or adult training preferred.

Equal Opportunity Employer

It is our policy to employ qualified persons without regard for race, creed, color, national origin, nationality, ancestry, age, sex, marital or domestic partnership status, sexual orientation or disability. Individuals are considered for employment, promotion, or training solely on their ability to perform the essential functions of the position.