Partner Engagement Specialist

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 Dwyer Workforce Development's mission at the local level. This is an execution-focused, relationship-driven role that translates partnerships into real access to opportunity.

Position Responsibilities

• Identify, vet and cultivate and manage relationships with community-based 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 in-person).
• 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.
• Generate, cultivate, and manage pipelines of prospective Dwyer Scholars through outreach and the development of partnerships.
• Identify and engage Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) that have clients that can benefit from DWD programs.
• Identify and engage Community-Based 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 in-person 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 grant-related content for local initiatives.
• Support local funder and donor cultivation and stewardship in partnership with the Development team and DWD leadership.
• Aid 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.

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, problem-solving, and time-management 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.

Licensure / Certification / Registration

• Valid Driver’s License and regular access to a vehicle preferred.