Sr Program Specialist

Job Summary The Senior Program Specialist plays a critical role in managing the committees that recommend recipients of the highest honors within the IEEE Awards portfolios. In addition, the incumbent will manage committee and nomination/selection activities, volunteer relations, and other duties as assigned, including supporting other committees within the CEE department as needed. This forward‑thinking, tech‑savvy professional brings a fresh approach to connectivity and collaboration, ensuring that committee operations, governance considerations, and volunteer engagement are handled with excellence. The Senior Program Specialist proactively identifies operational opportunities and gaps, supports strong governance practices, leverages AI to strengthen the quality checks of incoming award nominations and the initial vetting of award candidates, and contributes to the continuous improvement of awards processes. This position reports to the Senior Manager, Awards Activities, and influences the work of others without direct supervisory responsibility. The ideal candidate is self‑motivated, comfortable working independently and in teams, and adept at navigating a dynamic environment with minimal guidance. Key Responsibilities Awards Committee and Nomination/Selection Activities and other committees as assigned (80%) Manages multiple award selection committees for IEEE Medals and Recognitions; in the near term, also supports the Technical Field Awards program. These committees are responsible for recommending recipients for the highest awards in the IEEE awards portfolio. Each of the selection committees meets virtually three times annually. Serves as the IEEE and the Awards team lead and Subject Matter Expert for the IEEE‑wide online nomination platform. Conducts information and onboarding sessions for current and potential users across the organization; liaises between IT, organizational units, society staff, and the platform vendor. Leads activities of one standing committee as assigned by the Senior Manager. Ensures that the Awards program procedures and evaluation processes are executed fairly, consistently, and in alignment with IEEE governance requirements. Collaborates with selection committees under the guidance of CEE senior management to identify strong candidates, ensure timely nominations and endorsements, and maintain process integrity. Partners with committee chairs to develop agendas, prepare and review agenda items, and secure necessary approvals. Authors accurate and comprehensive meeting minutes and reports for awards selection committees. Communicates recommended enhancements or required updates to the award committee web pages. Provides timely, accurate, policy‑compliant responses to IEEE volunteers, nominators, endorsers, and staff ensuring alignment with IEEE Bylaws, Policies, and the Awards Board Operations Manual. Works collaboratively with the CEE Awards team, the IEEE Awards Boards Committees, CEE colleagues, and other IEEE organizational units to advance the goals of the IEEE Awards Program. Applies a fresh, connected approach to volunteer engagement and committee operations, leveraging technology to improve communication, workflow, and transparency. Proactively identifies operational gaps, process inefficiencies, and opportunities for improvement, recommending solutions that strengthen governance and committee effectiveness. Other Duties (20%) Supports additional committees and special projects as assigned by the Senior Director/Managing Director. Assists the Senior Manager, Awards Activities, with Awards Board and standing committee activities. Manages departmental projects assigned to advance the organization’s goals. Travel Information 5% – Ability to travel up to 5% of the year outside of local region. Qualifications Education Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience relevant field of study or equivalent experience Req Work Experience 4–7 years relevant field of study or equivalent work experience Req Experience working with non‑profit organizations Pref Familiarity with IEEE, its structure, and its governance processes strongly preferred Pref Skills and Requirements Must be a patient, effective communicator who is able to establish and maintain relationships and skillfully influence and advocate on behalf of the IEEE Awards Program. Must have excellent analytical, technical, and project management skills, transparent collaborator, and team player. Demonstrated aptitude for effectively and efficiently working with volunteer Boards and Committees for high‑impact results. Positive, proactive work attitude and ability to excel in a fast‑moving work environment with changing priorities. Skilled at crafting and delivering persuasive presentations and written materials. Must possess excellent time management, organizational, and interpersonal/communication skills. Must be able to work well under deadlines and handle multiple projects simultaneously. Must be fluent in business English and capable of speaking effectively on the telephone and in person‑to‑person situations. Must demonstrate the highest degree of professionalism when dealing with sensitive and/or confidential matters. Must be a technologically savvy worker who seeks out solutions to business challenges. Mastery of Microsoft Office programs required, and mastery of Google Apps for Business preferred. Must be able to work during weekends and/or evenings as necessary. Other Requirements As defined in IEEE Policies, individuals currently serving on an IEEE board or committee are not eligible to apply. PLEASE NOTE: This position is not budgeted for employer‑sponsored immigration support, this includes all persons in F (both CPT and OPT), J, H, L, or O status. For information on work demands and conditions required for this position, please consult the reference document, ADA Requirements. This position is classified under Category I – Office Positions. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. #J-18808-Ljbffr IEEE