Program Function Specialist

FIRST Inspires•Manchester, NH

6d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Program Function Specialist supports the operational infrastructure for K-8 program delivery, with primary responsibility for systems, analytics, logistics, project coordination, and operational readiness. The role coordinates with vendors, contractors, FIRST Sourcing, Finance, IT, and other internal teams to resolve operational issues and prepare Program Delivery Partners for each season. The specialist serves as the subject matter expert for the K-8 Event Portal, creates operational reports and team-evaluation assets, and supports data quality and recurring reporting. The role also gathers and documents departmental technology requirements, liaises with IT, coordinates partner materials and shipping, resolves elevated customer issues, and provides logistics and operational support for World Festival. It also supports planning and delivery of Partner communications and training. FIRST headquarters is in Manchester, New Hampshire. The role offers a hybrid work model and remote flexibility, but candidates should be based in New England or willing to relocate there, and able to travel by car to headquarters during competition season or as needed for in-person events. Travel is expected at 5–10%. Applicants must be authorized to work for any U.S. employer; visa sponsorship is not available.

Requirements

Typically requires a BS/BA in a related discipline.
At least 2 years of directly related experience.
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Experience working with internal and external customers.
Strong organization skills and attention to detail.
Flexibility to travel 5–10%.
Commitment to FIRST Core Values: Discovery, Innovation, Impact, Inclusion, Teamwork, and Fun.
Must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S.; FIRST cannot sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa.

Responsibilities

Lead subject matter expertise for the K-8 Event Portal and collaborate with program development and other FIRST departments to update and maintain it each season.
Use advanced Excel skills to create assets for team evaluations at events.
Create operational reports for FIRST staff and Partners using FIRST systems, including Tableau, NetSuite, TARDIS, and the Event Portal; support data quality and recurring reporting needs.
Lead the collection, documentation, prioritization, and validation of K-8 departmental technology and system requirements.
Serve as the K-8 program liaison to IT, including participating in JIRA governance and creating and monitoring department tickets.
Coordinate with Finance, Sourcing, vendors, and external partners on Partner materials, shipping, inventory, and related operational reporting.
Coordinate resolution of elevated Operations customer issues related to registration, ordering, or product concerns.
Provide logistics, systems, reporting, and operational support for World Festival as directed by the project lead.
Support and facilitate planning and delivery of Program Delivery Partner communications and training, including gathering content for Partner emails and webinars.
Coordinate across vendors, contractors, internal teams, and partners to resolve operational issues and prepare Program Delivery Partners for each season.