Operations and Program Specialist

Description

When assigned a coordination role on active activities, support planning, execution, and follow up of tasks and deliverables per the activity description, work plan, and budget.

• Support the overall conceptualization, development and smooth implementation of Policy LINK’s program activities;
• Coordinate regular meetings and debriefs to set targets, review progress, coordinate teams and draw lessons for successful implementation of program activities;

Support the overall coordination towards preparation and facilitation of project trainings, meetings, workshops, seminars, conferences and events.

Support the preparation or review of draft documents (e.g., technical and workshop reports) to ensure quality and conformity with agreed templates, consistent with client and stakeholder requirements.

Support and maintain good communication and relationships with program partners, consultants and participants on matters regarding program activity, expectations, logistics, deliverables, timelines, and compliance requirements.

Represent Policy LINK in meetings and processes as required and appropriate, including scheduling, documenting, and following up on meetings with partners and USAID.

Other duties may be assigned based on evolving project needs.

Reporting

The Operations and Program Specialist will report to the Associate Manager, Finance and Operations. The position will be expected to coordinate closely with the Chief of Party, DCOP Operations & Finance, DCOP Programs, HR and Recruitment Specialist, and other members of the Policy LINK global team.

Supervisory Responsibilities

The Operations and Program Specialist will not have any direct reports, though will serve as a mentor and resource on DAI policies to staff in Policy LINK’s offices in Ethiopia, Ghana, Bangladesh, Kenya, and any future buy-in offices.

Performance Criteria

Policy LINK is a performance-based project, highly dependent on individual and team core competencies. Each staff member will participate in an annual evaluation process and receive feedback.

Qualifications

Education :

Bachelor's or master's degree in international development, business administration, public administration, economics, or another relevant field.

Experience :

Minimum of 3 years of professional experience, with at least one year minimum experience with USAID projects from the home office or in field settings;

preference will be given to candidates with additional USAID experience and experience supporting cooperative agreements.

• A demonstrated understanding of finance and procurement-related USG regulations.
• Intimate familiarity with DAI internal project management systems and tools, policies and procedures.
• Demonstrated knowledge of internal controls and audit processes (e.g., procurement, local subcontract agreements, etc.).
• Experience supporting Washington, DC-funded projects that operate globally across multiple countries is preferred.
• Experience working with programs focused on the core concepts of resilience, livelihoods, and food security is preferred.

Skills :

• Attention to detail, with outstanding project and process management skills.
• Effective communication, writing, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong problem-solving skills, particularly with financial management and performance.
• Proactive attitude and diligence in finalizing and completing tasks; critical thinker and self-starter who is able to work with minimal supervision and within established deadlines.
• Strong organizational and coordination skills, with an ability to manage up and integrate necessary inputs from senior staff and stakeholders.

Compensation & Benefits

For employees working in the United States, the full-time equivalent annual base salary for this position is expected to be between $65,000 and $75,000.

Salary for part-time employees will be prorated based on actual hours worked. Actual offers will be based on several factors, including, but not limited to, qualifications, relevant education, experience, skills, seniority, performance, and business or organizational needs.

Eligible U.S.-based employees can enroll in medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus a 401(k) retirement plan with a company match.

Additionally, employees will be eligible for company-paid annual leave (vacation and holidays), sick leave, parental leave, and short and long-term disability coverage.

Detailed information will be provided at the time a formal offer is extended.

Equal Employment Opportunity

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or status as a protected veteran.

DAI and its employees are committed to confronting discrimination in all forms, nurturing respect for our interpersonal relationships, and holding ourselves accountable for positive change within the company and in the communities, cultures, and countries in which we live and work.

DAI is committed to attracting and retaining the best employees from all races, ethnicities, and backgrounds in our continued effort to become a better development partner.

DAI upholds the highest ethical standards. We are committed to preventing sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment, as well as other ethical breaches.

Therefore, all our positions are subject to stringent vetting and reference checks.