SAF/IS Regional Program Specialist - Reserve

Joining The American Red Cross is like nothing else – it’s as much something you feel as something you do. You become a vital part of the world’s largest humanitarian network, working alongside welcoming individuals who are exceptional yet unassuming, diverse yet united. You’ll grow your career within a movement that measures success in lives helped and communities strengthened, supported by mentors who empower your growth. Align your life’s work with a mission bigger than all of us while receiving competitive compensation and benefits, and join a community that respects your whole self.

About the role

The American Red Cross is seeking a highly adaptable and mission-driven Regional Program Specialist - Reserve to support our Services to the Armed Forces (SAF) programs in overseas locations. SAF reserve staff are typically assigned to short-term deployments of approximately 6 months plus 9 weeks of remote training on a part-time basis, 2 weeks of in-person training, and mandatory paid time off at the end of the assignment. In between deployment assignments, reserve staff are considered inactive and are not paid until they begin a new deployment rotation. This role is not eligible for relocation assistance.

In this unique and critical role, you will deploy to a U.S. military installation in the Middle East, Africa, or Eastern Europe. Candidates must be prepared to live and work on a military base, adhere to military rules and customs, and operate in dynamic and austere environments. This position requires meeting strict medical and security clearances prior to employment.

Responsibilities

• Manage and administer the delivery of American Red Cross services to meet the needs of United States military members, veterans, and their families in accordance with Red Cross policies and procedures.
• Oversee the management and administration of American Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces (SAF) and International Services (IS) U.S. programs and services, including International Humanitarian Law (IHL), Youth Action Campaign (YAC), and Restoring Family Links (RFL).
• Facilitate the delivery of emergency communication messages and related support services to military members and their families through the SAF Hero Care Network.
• Coordinate and conduct follow-up services with clients, ensuring all activities are logged and documented.
• Maintain operational awareness by updating rosters, unit contacts, and case logs in alignment with mission guidelines.
• Support contingency operations during high-volume events and serve as the local liaison for Hero Care casework.
• Monitor service delivery outcomes, ensuring accurate documentation and reporting of program activities.
• Identify trends, assess service needs, and contribute recommendations for program improvement.
• Collaborate with Red Cross leadership on deployment feedback, staff mentorship, and onboarding support for mobile team members.
• Assist with travel coordination, logistics, and reporting as needed for mobile deployments.
• Build and sustain relationships with military leadership, command staff, and installation partners.
• Conduct outreach through command briefings, education sessions, presentations, and one-on-one engagements.
• Increase Red Cross visibility using Armed Forces Network, base bulletins, social media, and approved local marketing channels.
• Represent the Red Cross at official functions, ceremonies, and community events.
• Manage all phases of the volunteer engagement cycle: recruitment, onboarding, training, supervision, recognition, and offboarding.
• Recruit and mentor leadership volunteers to support Red Cross program delivery across SAF/IS, Disaster Cycle Services, Training Services, and Blood Services.
• Utilize the Volunteer Connection platform to manage volunteer documentation, communication, and compliance.
• Promote a positive, inclusive volunteer environment aligned with Red Cross values.
• Ensure consistent and high-quality delivery of Red Cross programs to service members, veterans, and their families.
• Supervise volunteer service delivery teams to ensure strong program impact and alignment with mission needs.
• Coordinate educational briefings, community workshops, and special events supporting SAF/IS objectives.
• Provide family support services including wellness check-ins, emergency communications, and referrals to community resources.
• Promote and implement International Services programs within the local community.
• Serve as a deployable member of the SAF Mobile Team for a 6-month overseas assignment, supporting U.S. military operations across the Middle East, Africa, and Eastern Europe.
• Live and work on military installations, following all base policies, customs, and operational requirements.
• Maintain full deployment readiness, including required medical clearances, training certifications, and security standards.
• Support emergency, surge, and disaster operations as part of the Hero Care Network Contingency Team.
• Participate in readiness drills, maintain casework proficiency, and respond to emergency communications and crisis situations as needed.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in business or public administration, human resources management, community organization, social or health sciences, or related field is required; or equivalent experience.
• A minimum of five years of related experience in program management or a related field.
• A current, valid driver's license with a good driving record.
• U.S. citizenship is required.
• Must be able to obtain a secret security clearance and a no-fee U.S. passport.
• Worldwide mobility is a condition of employment and an essential function of this position.
• Must accept work assignments anywhere in the world, including conflict areas where the American Red Cross is providing services to members of the military and their families.
• Must meet strict medical and physical requirements, including immunizations required by the U.S. military.
• May be required to wear military uniforms and live and work in harsh and stressful environments in conflict areas.
• Periodically accompanies the military on deployments.

Skills

• Strong computer skills.
• Public speaking skills and the ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work well in an individual or team environment.
• Ability to balance multiple priorities.
• Familiarity with military culture, regulations, and protocol is strongly desired.
• Experience with American Red Cross programs and services is strongly desired.

Work Conditions

• Depending on work assignment, may require ordinary ambulatory skills sufficient to visit other locations; or the ability to stand, walk, and manipulate (lift, carry, move) light to medium weights of up to 20 pounds.
• Requires good hand-eye coordination, arm, hand, and finger dexterity, including the ability to grasp, and visual acuity to use a keyboard, operate equipment, and read technical information.
• Overall mobility is essential.
• May include sitting for long periods of time, driving a vehicle, and working under challenging conditions.
• Work is performed indoors with some potential for exposure to safety and health hazards related to emergency services relief work.
• May travel and participate in meetings and conferences throughout chapter jurisdiction, state, and Red Cross system.
• Because the Red Cross is a disaster response organization, staff may be asked to be on 24-hour call during periods of major disaster.

Core Competencies

• Adaptability: Adjust to new situations quickly and tackle the challenges these situations present.
• Independent Problem Solving: Handle high-pressure situations by engaging others in dialogue and developing actionable solutions.
• Teamwork: Collaborate with team members, volunteers, and military personnel to achieve the SAF/IS mission.
• Servant Leader: Put others and the mission first, understanding that deployment is a hardship, and supporting military personnel in uncomfortable situations.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision plans.
• Health Spending Accounts & Flexible Spending Accounts.
• Paid Time Off (PTO): Starting at 15 days a year; based on job type and tenure.
• Holidays: 11 paid holidays comprised of six core holidays and five floating holidays.
• 401K with up to 6% match.
• Paid Family Leave.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Short-term and Long-term disability insurance.
• Service Awards and recognition.