Specialist, Workforce Grant

Join to apply for the Specialist, Workforce Grant role at Illinois Action for Children

Base pay range: $48,200.00/yr

Under the supervision of the Workforce Grant Manager, the Workforce Grant Specialist is responsible for supporting the implementation of the Smart Start Workforce Grant (SSWG) by conducting outreach, offering technical assistance, and supporting licensed childcare programs in successfully applying for and utilizing the grant.

• Conduct targeted outreach to licensed child care providers in Cook County to share information about the SSWG.
• Assist licensed providers in understanding eligibility criteria, completing grant applications, and meeting deadlines.
• Provide technical assistance to programs and ensure proper documentation and follow‑up.
• Support in‑person and virtual information sessions, orientations, and application clinics to guide programs through the grant process.
• Maintain accurate provider records in the Data Tracking Program (DTP) and submit the weekly SSWG Report form with complete activity data.
• Conduct follow‑up with providers not currently engaged in the grant to increase awareness and future participation.
• Collaborate with the Workforce Grant Manager and team to plan outreach strategies and review updates from IDHS and INCCRRA.
• Submit monthly program impact stories demonstrating provider success or lessons learned.
• Attend required professional development and IDHS/INCCRRA workdays or training events.
• Execute duties in alignment with SSWG deliverables and organizational core capabilities.
• Other Functions:
  The organization may assign other functions to the job at its discretion.

Education and/or Experience

Bachelor’s degree. Must have at least two years of experience in early childhood education, workforce development, or grant implementation.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations

Access to reliable personal transportation, insurance, a valid driver’s license, and a good driving record is required.

Other

Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of early childhood education programs.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to connect and build relationships.
• Excellent work ethic and accountability to self and job responsibilities.
• Ability to work independently, with a schedule that may include evenings and weekends.
• Highly organized and attention to detail skills.
• Good writing, editing, and speaking skills.
• Creativity and strong problem‑solving abilities.
• Ability to be flexible in daily activities in response to workforce or institution requests.
• Ability to travel locally and statewide, as needed.
• Bilingual, fluent in English and Spanish required.

• Health, dental, and vision insurance plans with company contribution of 95% for single coverage.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Generous PTO – first year 23 days, second year 28 days, third year and on 35 days.
• 11 paid holidays and 1 floating holiday.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Flexible spending account.
• STD & LTD insurance.
• Company‑paid life insurance.

Annual Salary: $48,200.00

Location:

Uptown, Chicago - Hybrid

Illinois Action for Children is EEO/M/F/V/D employer

While we desire for this job posting to be comprehensive, all aspects of the position may be amended at any time at the discretion of IAFC including job duties, work location and/or work schedule.