Program Specialist

Job Description: Program Specialist

Who We Are:

• Eye Thrive is a locally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit that empowers children to pursue their full potential by delivering essential eyecare across the St. Louis region.


• In June 2025, Eye Thrive launched a second Mobile Vision Clinic, doubling our capacity and our impact on the lives of St. Louis kids. 


• This school year, Eye Thrive will provide 25,000+ vision screenings, 8,000+ comprehensive eye exams, 8,000+ prescription glasses, 3,000+ replacement glasses, and 300+ follow-up care referrals, all completely free of charge.
  

Job Overview:

• The Program Specialist will play a critical role in day-to-day effectiveness of Eye Thrive, including cultivating and maintaining strong partnerships with site partners, initiating pre and post visits, communicating all visit logistics with site partners, conducting vision screenings, and efficiently manages the pace of MVC visits. 


• The Program Specialist will play a collaborative role in developing and implementing systems that increase the effectiveness and efficiency of our work and support our ability to grow and expand our impact. 


• An ideal Program Specialist is a solution focused problem solver who can respond quickly and appropriately in changing or stressful situations.  A successful Program Specialist will have excellent organizational skills, strong attention to detail, and the ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks and projects.  

Job Type:  

• Permanent; Full Time; Exempt. 


• 40 hours/week; Monday-Friday.


• Participation in morning/evening meetings and special events will be required as needed.


• Reports to Director of Operations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead Site Partner Contact - 30%
  
  
  
  • Initiates communication with site partner before, during, and after visits. Clearly communicates all procedures and policies. 
  
  
  • Engages in positive interactions with children and families. Builds relationships based on compassion and respect. 
  
  
  • Cultivates strong partnerships in collaboration with site partners. 
  
  
  • Delivers follow-up survey to teachers and site partners. 
  
  
  • Provides additional resources to parents and/or school as needed. 
  
  
  • Recognizes moments and stories of success. Captures stories with high-quality photos and videos.
  
  
  
  


• Vision Screening - 35%
  
  
  
  • Prepares site schedule and master list of children with valid consent forms. 
  
  
  • Performs vision screenings and accurately enters patient information into Electronic Medical Records system. 
  
  
  • Documents and shares vision screening results with children/families and site partners.  
  
  
  • Fosters positive connections with children aged 4-18 to encourage vision health.
  
  
  
  


• Mobile Vision Clinic - 25%
  
  
  
  • Manages efficient flow of children to and from MVC. Clearly communicates with site partners and Eye Thrive staff. Prioritizes safety of children walking to and from the MVC. 
  
  
  • Assists children with frame selection and ensures the proper frame fit and satisfaction. 
  
  
  • Demonstrates how to care for glasses and share helpful tips. 
  
  
  • Assists with site set-up and tear-down. 
  
  
  • Makes informed, quick decisions with team members on board.
  
  
  
  


• Headquarters - 10%
  
  
  
  • Collaborates with team members to increase the effectiveness and efficiency of our work and support our ability to grow and expand our impact. 
  
  
  • Analyzes visit data and trends and summarizes visit outcomes.  
  
  
  • Partners with leadership to implement a 3-year strategic plan and support growth and expand impact. 
  
  
  • Participates in various professional development opportunities, including coaching, trainings, and workshops. 
  
  
  
  


• As Needed
  
  
  
  • Provides on-site operational support to MVC as needed. 
  
  
  • Completes other tasks as assigned and required.
  
  
  
  

Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities:

• Abilities
  
  
  
  • Ability to manage multiple projects with attention to detail, handle interruptions, maintain focus on tasks and produce accurate work.
  
  
  • Ability to adjust to changing conditions or priorities. 
  
  
  • Ability to make decisions and exercise good judgment.
  
  
  • Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
  
  
  • Ability to quickly understand complex information, adapt to new challenges, and take initiative as a proactive self-starter.
  
  
  
  


• Skills
  
  
  
  
  • Commitment to the mission and values of the organization.
  
  
  • High degree of integrity, discretion, and professionalism.
  
  
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic environment.
  
  
  
  


• Knowledge

• 
  
  
  
  • Associate or bachelor’s degree required.
  
  
  • Non-profit or education experience preferred.
  
  
  
  

• 
  
  
  
  • Proficient skill level with Microsoft Office applications.
  
  
  • Proficient skill level with Google Documents, Sheets, and Calendar.
  
  
  
  

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:

• Physical Demands
  
  
  
  • Must be able to lift and carry 25 pounds when on MVC during set-up and tear-down.
  
  
  • Ability to move up and down stairwells.
  
  
  • Frequent standing, reaching, and stooping.  75% or more of the workday may be spent standing on feet.
  
  
  • Must have access to a reliable vehicle to travel to schools and community centers and between office locations.
  
  
  
  


• Work Environment
  
  
  
  • Works at a shared workspace office at Eye Thrive headquarters at the Delmar DivINe and at Eye Thrive warehouse in Maryland Heights.
  
  
  • Regularly travels to Mobile Vision Clinic at various schools and community centers throughout Greater St. Louis.
  
  
  
  

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position. This job description is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this position.  It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of essential functions, responsibilities or requirements. 

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary starting at $50,000 commensurate with experience.


• Competitive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance and Employee Assistance Program services.


• 403b employer matching program.


• Competitive personal time off policy.


• Mileage reimbursement.


• Professional development opportunities
  

Submit a cover letter and resume at eyethrive.bamboohr.com/jobs   Priority is given to early applicants; applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and position is open until filled.