Partner Engagement Specialist

Partner Engagement Specialist - Maryland based position covering MD, NY, NJ, CT and surrounding areas Mission Dwyer Workforce Development’s (DWD) mission is to provide comprehensive support to individuals who lack opportunity and aspire to pursue a career in the healthcare industry, alleviating a severe healthcare workforce shortage, and improving the lives of seniors and the community. The Partner Engagement Department at Dwyer Workforce Development (DWD) is responsible for building, scaling, and sustaining the relationships that power our mission. At its core, the department is helping to solve the healthcare workforce crisis by serving individuals who are often the hardest to reach—those who face systemic barriers and lack access to opportunity. This work begins with strong, intentional partnerships. Our Values Integritydoing the right thing even if no one is looking Empathyaction ruled compassion. Ingenuitybig ideas and solutions Accountabilityownership in every action Collaborationthe power of we over me These values are not aspirational. They are expected and reflected in how we work every day. Position Summary The Partner Engagement Specialist (PES) is responsible for executing community and partner engagement strategies that generate Scholar pipelines, connect individuals to critical support services, and advance DWD’s mission at the local level. This is an execution-focused, relationship-driven role that translates partnerships into real access to opportunity. The Partner Engagement Specialist works directly with community organizations, referral partners, and service providers to ensure individuals—especially those facing systemic barriers—are reached, supported, and connected to training and employment pathways. Serving as a key connector between Scholars, partners, and internal teams, this role plays a critical part in ensuring engagement efforts result in meaningful participation, support, and outcomes for Dwyer Scholars. Position Responsibilities Community Partnership Development and Engagement Identify, vet and cultivate and manage relationships with communitybased organizations, nonprofits, referral partners, faith communities, senior care and other healthcare providers. Identify opportunities and represent DWD at community events, meetings, conferences, and resource fairs (virtual and inperson). Build and maintain a strong network of partners that support Scholar success and program growth. Serve as a visible and engaged representative of DWD within the community. Scholar Pipeline Development and Outreach Generate, cultivate, and manage pipelines of prospective Dwyer Scholars through outreach and the development of partnerships. Identify and engage CommunityBased Organizations (CBOs) that have clients that can benefit from DWD programs. Resource Navigation and Scholar Support Connection Identify for Scholars supportive services (e.g., childcare, health and wellness, emergency assistance) and hand off to the Education Support Center (ESC). Maintain knowledge of community resources and funding sources and pipelines relevant to DWD and Scholar needs. Event Planning and Community Programming Plan, coordinate, support and evaluate community engagement activities, meetings, and events for Scholars and partners in collaboration with DWD’s ScholarFacingTeams. Manage logistics for both inperson and virtual engagements in partnership and collaboration with DWD’s ScholarFacingTeams. Set and execute community engagement goals and measurable outcomes aligned with organizational goals and priorities. Funding and Partnership Support Identify potential funding opportunities and donor prospects through active monitoring of the local nonprofit and philanthropic landscape, online resources and local/regional publications and share with the Development Team. Provide support for donors and grantrelated content for local initiatives. Support local funder and donor cultivation and stewardship in partnership with the Development team and DWD leadership. Assist in aligning community engagement efforts with funding strategies in partnership with the Development Team. Program Coordination and Execution Under the direction of the Regional Manager, identify, implement and evaluate community engagement initiatives, timelines, and priorities. Collaborate with DWD corporate team members to ensure alignment, execution focused on identified measurable deliverables. Track activities, outcomes, and engagement efforts using CRM systems. Complete additional assignments as needed to support program success. Licensure / Certification / Registration Valid Driver’s License and regular access to a vehicle preferred. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Public Affairs, Communications, Business, or related field (or equivalent experience). Minimum of 3 years of experience in community engagement, outreach, workforce development, or related field. Demonstrated ability to build and manage partnerships and community relationships. Strong communication and presentation skills, including public speaking. Experience with event coordination and program management. Strong organizational, problemsolving, and timemanagement skills. Ability to work independently in a remote or hybrid environment. High degree of judgment, discretion, and accountability. Experience using CRM systems (Salesforce preferred). Ability to work flexible hours, including occasional evenings and weekends. Ability to work effectively with diverse populations. Willingness and ability to travel within the current and future DWD footprint as needed. Equal Employment Opportunity: Dwyer Workforce Development is an Equal Opportunity (EEO) employer. It is the policy of the Company to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information. Sponsorship in US: Must be eligible to work in the U.S. without Sponsorship. #J-18808-Ljbffr Dwyer Workforce Development