Program Specialist (CLR)

Position Title: Program Specialist (CLR)
Department: Center for Learning in Retirement (CLR)
Division: Workforce Development (WOD)
Employee Status: Full-time
Type: Support Staff Association (SSA- Union)
Grade: 9
Salary: ($19.11-$21.18 hourly)
FLSA: Non-exempt
Issued: December 12, 2025
Revised: March 2026
ICCB Classification: Clerical
Employment Notice: Rock Valley College does not offer sponsorship for employment-based visas for this position now or in the future. Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States without the need for employer sponsorship.
Application Deadline:April 10th, 2026

Reporting Relationships
Reports to: Administrative Supervision: Program Director, Center for Learning in Retirement
Programmatic/Functional Supervision: Executive Director, Community and continuing Education

Supervision Exercised: Functional supervision may be exercised over volunteer office staff and student workers.

Job Summary
Under the direction of the Program Director of the Center for Learning In Retirement (CLR), perform program administration and office management that ensures exceptional service. Oversee day to day operations of CLR including instructor and class support, coordination of volunteer office staff and logistical functions. Assume the responsibilities of the Program Director in his/her absence. This position requires a strong commitment to customer service and program excellence and is best suited to a candidate that has a passion for serving the senior community.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Related duties may be assigned.
1. Serve as a primary point of contact for members, instructors, and visitors of the Center for Learning in Retirement (CLR), providing guidance, information, and support through in-person, phone, and email communication.
2. Partner with the Director to coordinate the daily operations of the Center for Learning in Retirement, ensuring programs, classes, and member services run smoothly and effectively.
3. Coordinate scheduling of CLR classes, facilitators, and instructors at the Bell School Road campus, ensuring alignment with program goals, space availability, and member needs.
4. Monitor classroom readiness and program logistics, ensuring instructional spaces, materials, and technology are properly prepared for CLR programs and events.
5. Oversee program records and documentation to ensure compliance with institutional, Illinois Community College Board (ICCB), and Higher Learning Commission (HLC) requirements.
6. Maintain and manage the CLR master course file, including processing class additions, changes, cancellations, and updates to program offerings.
7. Utilize and manage multiple software systems and databases to maintain accurate member records, course rosters, financial information, and generate operational and program reports.
8. Collaborate with the Director in the development and production of class catalogs, seasonal newsletters, promotional materials, and other communications supporting member engagement and program visibility.
9. Coordinate and support major CLR events such as the Annual Meeting, Holiday Gala, educational trips, and special programs, including logistics, communications, and on-site coordination.
10. Manage departmental financial processes including deposits for membership fees, class fees, and other program revenues, ensuring accurate recordkeeping and alignment with college procedures.
11. Create and monitor requisitions, purchase orders, and check requests related to program operations and event activities.
12. Maintain accurate knowledge of CLR programs, policies, and available resources in order to respond effectively to inquiries from members, instructors, and internal stakeholders.
13. Maintain member registration records, waitlists, and program participation data to support program planning and reporting.
14. Maintain departmental filing systems, records management, and document retention practices in accordance with statutory requirements and college guidelines.
15. Maintain membership mailing lists and coordinate bulk mailings and communications to support program promotion and member engagement.
16. Coordinate ordering, inventory, and maintenance of office and program supplies, as well as arrange service or maintenance for program equipment as needed.
17. Independently prepare correspondence, reports, communications, and operational documents for members, instructors, and college staff.
18. Troubleshoot registration, membership, and basic technology issues related to CLR program participation, working with external vendors and Rock Valley College Information Technology when necessary.
19. Serve as the operational lead for CLR activities in the Director's absence, ensuring continuity of services, program delivery, and member support.
20. Participate in college and departmental meetings as appropriate and prepare summaries, notes, or reports that support program planning and coordination.
21. Serve as a liaison between the Center for Learning in Retirement and other college departments to coordinate scheduling, communications, financial processes, and program support.
22. Exercise sound judgment and maintain a high level of confidentiality and professionalism in all interactions and handling of sensitive information.
23. Build and maintain effective working relationships with members, instructors, volunteers, and college personnel through tact, professionalism, and a strong commitment to customer service.
24. Comply with FERPA (Family Education and Rights Privacy Act) regulations.
25. Understand and uphold Rock Valley College policies.
26. Must maintain a high level of confidentiality and discretion.
27. Regular attendance is expected.
28. Using tact and courtesy, the ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with persons contacted in the course of work.
29. Related duties as assigned.

Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or
abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Minimum Qualifications
Associate's Degree and two (2) years of relevant managerial experience in an office environment required.

Preferred Qualifications
-Bachelor Degree
-Two years of relevant experience with program coordination preferred. Experience working with retired population preferred.

Required Attributes
-Strong computer proficiency including the use of Microsoft Office applications, database systems, and online platforms to support communication, reporting, and program operations.
-Excellent oral and written communication skills.
-Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while exercising sound judgment and initiative in completing assigned responsibilities.

Work Environment
While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly works in an office setting. Some physical demands.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands and fingers to handle, feel, or operate objects, tools or controls, and reach with hands and arms. The employee is frequently required to stand, talk and hear.