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 individuals who are exceptional yet unassuming, diverse yet united. This role is a unique opportunity to grow your career within a movement that measures success in lives helped and communities strengthened. As a Regional Program Specialist - Reserve, you will support our Services to the Armed Forces (SAF) programs in overseas locations through short-term deployments of approximately 6 months, including 9 weeks of remote training, 2 weeks of in-person training, and mandatory paid time off at the end of the assignment. Between deployments, reserve staff are considered inactive and are not paid until a new deployment rotation begins. This role is not eligible for relocation assistance.

You will deploy to a U.S. military installation in the Middle East, Africa, or Eastern Europe, living and working on a military base while adhering to military rules and customs 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, including International Humanitarian Law (IHL), Youth Action Campaign (YAC), and Restoring Family Links (RFL).
• 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, 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.
• 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 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.
• 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 equivalent experience.
• Experience: A minimum of five years of related experience in program management or a related field is required.
• Skills and Abilities:
  • Strong computer skills and proficiency in public speaking and written communication.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work well in individual or team environments.
  • Ability to balance multiple priorities in dynamic environments.
  • Familiarity with military culture, regulations, and protocol is strongly desired.
  • Experience with American Red Cross programs and services is strongly desired.
• 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 serves military members 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.
• A current, valid driver's license with a good driving record is required.

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 the 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.

What Will Give You The Competitive Edge

• Passion for supporting military members with the physical stamina and emotional capacity to live and work alongside deployed military members in harsh climates and difficult environments.
• Experience as a servant leader supporting deployed military members through challenging issues.
• Adaptability and ability to manage ambiguity while engaging others in solving complex problems.
• Core Competencies:
  • Adaptability: Adjust to new situations quickly and tackle challenges effectively.
  • 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: Prioritize others and the mission, understanding the hardships of deployment and supporting military personnel in difficult 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 job type and tenure.
• Holidays: 11 paid holidays (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 disability coverage.
• Service Awards and recognition.