Perkins Grant Operations Specialist

The Perkins Grant Operations Specialist is responsible for coordinating the full lifecycle of the Perkins V Grant, including the development, implementation, and management of activities that align with both federal and state Perkins requirements and the strategic goals of Holyoke Community College (HCC). This position plays a key role in advancing workforce development initiatives and promoting equity, particularly among underrepresented and special populations within Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, including BIPOC, first-generation, low-income students, students with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups.

• Grant Management and Compliance:
  • Oversee all aspects of the Carl D. Perkins V Grant, including budget monitoring, application coordination, and compliance with state and federal reporting requirements under the direct oversight of the Assistant Vice President of Academic Affairs and Student Success.
  • Prepare and submit required documentation, including the annual performance report (APR), improvement plans, five-year plan, and other compliance documents required by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).
  • Support the building and implementation of the Perkins Local Plan and the Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment (CLNA) process, ensuring alignment with institutional goals and student needs.
• Equity and Student Success Initiatives:
  • Collaborate with internal stakeholders to identify and address equity gaps in CTE programs, with a particular focus on supporting BIPOC, first-generation, low-income, students with disabilities, and other underserved student populations.
  • Support the implementation of targeted programs and initiatives aimed at increasing access, retention, and completion rates for underrepresented groups in CTE programs.
  • Work with student support services, academic departments, and workforce partners to develop strategies that remove barriers and create pathways to success for all students.
• Workforce Development and Program Alignment:
  • Collaborate with academic deans, associate deans, faculty chairs, and external partners to ensure that CTE programs meet regional workforce demands and provide students with the skills necessary for career success.
  • Support the development and refinement of programs of study that align with workforce needs and facilitate student transitions to employment or further education.
  • Facilitate partnerships with local businesses, industry leaders, and secondary schools to create articulation agreements and pathways for CTE students.
• Data and Performance Monitoring:
  • Monitor Perkins accountability performance indicators, ensuring that HCC meets or exceeds state and federal benchmarks.
  • Support the use of data-driven strategies for improving student success and ensuring that Perkins-funded initiatives align with institutional and state goals.
• Other Duties:
  • Provide technical assistance and training to faculty and staff on Perkins-related processes and compliance requirements.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned by the Assistant Vice President of Academic Affairs and Student Success to ensure the smooth functioning of the Perkins Grant and related CTE programs.
  • Participate in special projects and initiatives that support the overall mission of HCC, particularly those related to equity and workforce development.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

REQUIRED: 

• Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution.
• Minimum of three years of experience in grant management, compliance, or a related field.
• Knowledge of Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs and their role in higher education.
• Experience working with diverse populations and a demonstrated commitment to promoting equity in education.
• Strong organizational, communication, and project management skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, and data management software.

PREFERRED:  

• Master’s degree in education, public administration, or a related field.
• Experience with Perkins grant management or similar federal/state-funded programs.
• Familiarity with workforce development initiatives and partnerships.
• Experience in data analysis and reporting to monitor and improve program outcomes.
• Supervisory or leadership experience in an educational or nonprofit setting.

EQUIVALENCY STATEMENT:  Applicants who do not meet the qualifications as stated above are encouraged to put in writing precisely how their background and experience have prepared them for the responsibilities of this position.

Part-time, non-benefited MCCC unit position

MCCC Title:  Senior Staff Assistant

Salary: $33.95/hour

Hours: 18.5 hrs./week; 962 hours annual contract; flexibility is necessary

Funding Source: Perkins Grant

- All candidates must have legal authorization to work in the United States. HCC is not sponsoring H1B Visa. 
- Pre-Employment Background check, including Criminal History will be conducted for all positions.