Project Specialist

Job DescriptionJob Description About This Role Program OverviewThe Teacher Recruitment & Retention (TRR) Program is a workforce support initiative administered by OPSR in partnership with Oklahoma Human Services (OKDHS). TRR strengthens Oklahoma’s child care system by reimbursing eligible child care employees for the cost of care for their own children, based on verified employment and child attendance. The program operates on a monthly reimbursement model and requires accurate data management, timely processing, and consistent communication with providers and employees. Position SummaryThe Project Specialist supports the daily operations of Teacher Recruitment & Retention (TRR) by processing applications and payments, managing data and reports, and serving as a key point of contact for participating child care providers and employees. This role works closely with the TRR Program Manager to ensure accurate program execution, data integrity, and timely communication. The Project Specialist is responsible for operational support functions within Submittable, including application processing, payment processing, reporting, and data analysis, while helping maintain consistent and responsive participant support. What You'll Do Key ResponsibilitiesProgram Operations & SupportSupport day-to-day operations of the Teacher Recruitment & Retention (TRR) Program under the direction of the Project Manager.Process provider, employee, and child applications in Submittable in accordance with program policies, procedures and timelines.Process monthly reimbursements and payments within the system, ensuring accuracy and completeness.Track application status, payments, and follow-up items to support timely program execution. Application Processing & System ManagementMaintain a strong working knowledge of Submittable and TRR Program requirements.Review applications for completeness and accuracy resolving discrepancies and routing program issues to the Program Manager as needed.Communicate with applicants regarding missing information, corrections, or clarifications.Assist with maintaining system workflows, templates, and standardized responses. Data Management & ReportingPull routine and ad hoc reports from Submittable and other program systems.Analyze reports to identify trends, errors, and operational issues.Transfer program data into Excel for data manipulation, tracking, and analysis.Maintain organized records to support audits, reporting, and leadership review. Communication & Participant SupportServe as a point of contact for child care providers and employees participating in the Strong Start program.Respond to program inquiries via email and other communication channels in a timely and professional manner.Support clear and consistent communication related to application status, payments, and program requirements.Escalate complex issues or policy questions to the Project Manager as appropriate. Collaboration & Continuous ImprovementWork collaboratively with the TRR Project Manager to support program goals and timelines.Identify recurring issues or process challenges and recommend improvements.Support documentation of procedures, workflows, and reporting processes.Participate in team meetings and assist with follow-up tasks as assigned.Due to the evolving nature the TRR Program, duties may expand beyond those currently listed. Requirements Required QualificationsBachelor’s degree in public administration, business administration, data analytics, social services, or a related field.Experience with system and process management in a programmatic or administrative setting.Experience working with data, reports, and spreadsheets, including Excel.Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.Clear written and verbal communication skills. Nice To Haves Preferred QualificationsExperience with Submittable or similar web-based, application management platforms.Experience supporting public programs, workforce initiatives, or reimbursement-based models.Background in program analysis, reporting, or operational support. Key CompetenciesStrong organizational and data management skills.Analytical thinking and problem-solving ability.Customer-service mindset when working with providers and employees.Ability to follow established processes while identifying improvement opportunities.Comfort working in a fast-paced, evolving program environment. Benefits OPSRF pays at 100%, medical, dental, vision, long-term disability, life insurance, and 3% into 401k. Work Remotely Flexible work from home options available