Program Specialist, LGBTQIA+

Position Summary 

The Program Specialist for LGBTQIA+ Affairs is responsible for the coordination, implementation, and evaluation of programs and initiatives that advance equity, inclusion, and quality of life for LGBTQIA+ residents across Philadelphia. Working under the direction of the Director, this role supports the execution of strategic priorities by managing projects, facilitating cross-departmental collaboration, and ensuring effective service delivery across City agencies and community partners. 

The Program Specialist serves as a key operational lead, translating policy and strategic goals into actionable programs, maintaining stakeholder relationships, and tracking outcomes to inform continuous improvement. This role reports to the Director of LGBTQIA+ Affairs 

Essential Functions 

• Support the implementation of the Office’s strategic priorities and policy initiatives through effective program and project management. 

• Coordinate and manage priority initiatives across key issue areas such as health equity, public safety, housing stability, and economic opportunity. 

• Collaborate with City departments to integrate LGBTQ+ inclusive practices into programs, policies, and service delivery. 

• Monitor local, state, and federal policy developments and assist in assessing potential impacts on LGBTQ+ communities and City operations. 

• Develop and maintain partnerships with LGBTQ+ community leaders, advocacy organizations, and service providers to support program delivery and outreach. 

• Oversee day-to-day administration of assigned programs and initiatives, ensuring alignment with established goals, timelines, and performance metrics. 

• Track and analyze program data, community needs, and service outcomes to support reporting, evaluation, and continuous improvement efforts. 

• Prepare reports, briefings, and other materials for internal leadership, the Mayor’s Office, and external stakeholders. 

• Represent the Office in meetings, working groups, and community engagements as assigned. 

• Provide guidance, coordination, and support to interns, fellows, or project-based staff as assigned. 

• All other duties as assigned.  

Required Competencies, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities 

Knowledge: 

• Knowledge of principles and practices of program management, including planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation. 

• Knowledge of public sector operations, policies, and procedures, particularly within a large municipal government environment. 

• Knowledge of issues impacting LGBTQ+ communities, including disparities in health, housing, public safety, and economic opportunity. 

• Knowledge of data collection, performance measurement, and program evaluation techniques. 

Skills: 

• Skill in coordinating multiple projects and initiatives simultaneously while meeting deadlines and maintaining attention to detail. 

• Skill in analyzing qualitative and quantitative information and translating findings into actionable recommendations. 

• Skill in developing and maintaining effective working relationships with diverse stakeholders, including government agencies, community-based organizations, and advocacy groups. 

• Skill in written and oral communication, including preparing reports, briefings, and presentations for a variety of audiences. 

• Skill in facilitating meetings, coordinating cross-functional teams, and managing stakeholder engagement processes. 

Abilities: 

• Ability to translate strategic priorities into operational plans and program activities. 

• Ability to work independently while managing competing priorities in a fast-paced environment. 

• Ability to exercise sound judgment, professionalism, and discretion when working with sensitive or confidential information. 

• Ability to demonstrate cultural competency and effectively engage with diverse populations, particularly LGBTQ+ communities.