Who We Are
Veteran Community Initiatives, Inc. (VCI) is a local nonprofit Veteran Service Organization that provides no-cost programs and services to veterans and veteran families throughout southwestern Pennsylvania. Our purpose is to enhance the lives and well-being of veterans and military families through mission-driven initiatives that support overall wellbeing. VCI emphasizes assisting those who are disabled, disadvantaged, unemployed and underemployed, substance users, and current and previously incarcerated, and administers this support by implementing community-based initiatives directly to veterans and military families with as little ‘red tape’ as possible.
Program Specialist
Johnstown, PA
Classification: Exempt (Salary), Full-Time
Post Date: April 20, 2026
Reports to: Director of Administration (Primary), Chief Executive Officer
Deadline to Apply: May 29, 2026
General Hours: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM Monday through Friday, evenings and weekends as assigned
Format: Full-Time Onsite, Limited Remote/Hybrid after probationary period
Salary Range and Benefit Package: Varies, Competitive (dependent upon qualifications, background, and needs of the organization)
Position Summary
The Program Specialist supports the development, coordination, and implementation of programs, services, and initiatives that align with VCI’s mission. This role works closely with staff and community to ensure programs are delivered effectively, professionally, and timely, prioritizing advocacy for positively maintaining and sustaining veterans’ overall wellbeing.
Key Responsibilities
- Under the Administrator’s guidance, provide support and service activities for an assigned client or group of clients, ensuring their operational needs and issues, both tactical and strategic, are managed to the highest level of satisfaction
- Organize meetings, including scheduling, sending reminders, tracking attendance, taking minutes, and organizing catering when necessary
- Organize, implement, and monitor initiatives with a primary focus on rural health promotion and social services support for VCI clients (i.e., Career Support, Rural Outreach)
- Assist with marketing, special event planning, and fundraising campaigns
- Work with assigned internship programs
- Ensure the absolute security and confidentiality of all VCI records
- Other tasks as assigned
Required Qualifications
- Strong organizational and time management skills
- Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and/or database systems
- 1–3+ years of experience in program coordination, social services, or nonprofit work
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines
- Valid transportation and a current driver’s license
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Public Administration, Nonprofit/Business Management, or related field OR equivalent experience
- Military/Veteran experience
- Knowledge of local community resources and service networks
- Ability to develop and maintain credibility within veteran and nonveteran communities
- Data tracking and reporting experience
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
Work is performed in a combination of office, community, and field-based settings, including partner sites, client homes, and public spaces. After a 90-day probationary period, hybrid and remote work is available on a limited basis and by approval of the CEO.
- Regular local travel is required for outreach, meetings, and program activities; occasional evening and weekend hours may be necessary
- Frequent interaction with diverse populations, including individuals experiencing homelessness, mental health challenges, or economic hardship
- Work may involve exposure to varying weather conditions during outreach activities
- Ability to stand, walk, and move for extended periods during events and outreach efforts
- Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds (e.g., outreach materials, supplies, or equipment)
- Requires use of computers, phones, and other standard office equipment
Mission Alignment
The Program Specialist is expected to uphold and reflect the values and mission of VCI and demonstrate commitment to serving veterans and their families at the local level. Past work history and military experience to “get the job done” and “excuses unacceptable” mentality is in keeping with our work culture.
How to Apply
Veteran Community Initiatives, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. Please note that we aim to hire candidates based on best fit and familiarity with the organization’s mission and needs, and not solely from education and qualifications. Candidates must be willing to be trained. VCI is a nonprofit Veteran Service Organization and provides priority consideration to veterans. If you are interested in applying for this position, please send your cover letter and resume to info@vciinc.org.