SAF/IS Regional Program Specialist - Reserve

About the Role

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, diverse individuals united by a shared mission. This role is a unique opportunity to deploy as a Regional Program Specialist - Reserve, supporting 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, including 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 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

• Emergency Communication Casework (SAF Hero Care Network Services):
  • Facilitate the delivery of emergency communication messages and related support services to military members and their families.
  • Coordinate and conduct follow-up services with clients and ensure 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.
• Financial and Reporting Management:
  • Monitor service delivery outcomes and ensure 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.
• Relationship Management and Community Outreach:
  • Build strong and sustained 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.
• Volunteer Management:
  • 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.
• Service Delivery Management:
  • 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.
• Mobile Deployment Readiness and Operational Support:
  • Serve as a deployable member of the SAF Mobile Team for a 6-month overseas assignment.
  • Support 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

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in business or public administration, human resources management, community organization, social or health sciences, or related field is required; or related equivalent experience.
• Experience: A minimum of five years of related experience in program management or a related field is required.
• Preferred Skill Set: A current, valid driver's license with a good driving record is required.
• Mobility Requirements:
  • 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 and Abilities

• 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 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, supporting military personnel in uncomfortable situations and circumstances.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, and Vision plans.
• Health Spending Accounts & Flexible Spending Accounts.
• Paid Time Off (PTO): Starting at 15 days a year; based on type of job 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.
• Disability and Insurance: Short-term and Long-term.
• Service Awards and recognition.