Program Coordinator- SMART Initiative- IPS Position Available In Knox, Tennessee

Program Coordinator- SMART Initiative- IPS
University of Tennessee Chattanooga Knoxville, TN Full-time Education
Posted on April 4, 2025
Job Description
The SMART Initiative is a state-wide program whose primary goal is to empower Tennessee communities to overcome the overdose crisis. SMART guides community leaders in implementing evidence-based, cost-effective strategies that mitigate damage from substance use disorders and the opioid crisis. SMART’s vision is a healthy Tennessee where people impacted by substance use can live and thrive.
The SMART Program Coordinator will be responsible for creating and disseminating various types of highly visible, impactful deliverables related to substance use in Tennessee for key stakeholders. This position will independently develop, design, and disseminate various materials that will significantly impact the mission of the SMART Initiative. Building relationships with high-profile key state and community stakeholders to increase SMART’s ability to share information about complex issues related to substance use will also be a main responsibility of this position. Other assignments will include leading the SMART Policy Network, managing all communications, and coordinating SMART efforts.
The SMART Initiative is a state-wide program whose primary goal is to empower Tennessee communities to overcome the overdose crisis. SMART guides community leaders in implementing evidence-based, cost-effective strategies that mitigate damage from substance use disorders and the opioid crisis. SMART’s vision is a healthy Tennessee where people impacted by substance use can live and thrive.
Responsibilities
Independently develop and lead all activities related to the Policy Network including monthly steering committee meetings, Family Impact Seminars, etc., including deciding topics for discussions and events
Independently identify crucial topics related to substance use, curate research findings, review other state or local policies, write policy briefs and develop strategies for effective dissemination of all materials.
Writing, editing, and designing reports, white papers, recurring publications, journals, external communications, presentations, templates, etc.
Conduct literature reviews as needed to obtain current, peer reviewed findings to include in deliverables.
Independently identify specific content based on research and analysis, identify content experts, and interview for deliverables.
Develop content, record, edit, produce, and post recurring podcast sessions.
Deliver high quality presentations to various audiences.
Represent SMART at networking events and share information at conferences.
Support county officials by writing grant proposals.
Serve as Executive Secretary for the SMART Advisory Council and coordinate the annual council meeting and events.
Plan, organize, and host community and internal events.
Plan and present at SMART webinars, trainings, workshops, etc.
Manage website content and social media accounts.
Supervise student employees or interns.
Lead any other projects as needed.
Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

Education:

Requires a bachelor’s degree in public health or related field, master’s degree in public health or related field preferred.

Experience:

A minimum of four years of experience in a position related to substance use or equivalent education or experience is required.

Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities:

Extensive knowledge in substance use disorder and related issues
Exceptional knowledge of English grammar and vocabulary
Excellent communication skills: writing, public speaking, and face-to-face
Excellent organizational and time-management skills
Excellent professional judgment while working on complex assignments
Excellent interviewing skills virtually and in person
Knowledge of software and web platforms needed for disseminating deliverables
Knowledge of the structure and function of state and federal legislative bodies and processes
Ability to understand academic publishing at an editorial level
Ability to multi-task, work independently, and prioritize a heavy workload
Ability to work autonomously as well as within a team environment
Able to identify, evaluate, and curate research, data, and evidence
Ability to demonstrate discretion and sound judgment in handling sensitive information

Behaviors:

Members of the SMART Initiative team will exhibit qualities of emotional maturity, genuineness, self-confidence, common sense, judgment, fairness, creativity, discretion, decisiveness, political savvy, diplomacy, tact, resiliency, adaptability, courage of convictions and tolerance for ambiguity.

Demonstrated behavioral expectations include:

Unquestioned integrity and trustworthiness.
Commitment to the University’s mission and strategic plan, as well as missions and strategic plans for each campus/institute.
Ability to make good, consistent, and fair decisions (based on fact and data).
Ability to work with cross-functional teams and to foster teamwork.

Location:

This position is based out of our Knoxville, TN office. The majority of work hours will be in the office, though some remote work is permitted.
Applicants are encouraged to review all position requirements prior to applying. Salary is based on a combination of professional experience and qualifications.
For best consideration, applications should be submitted by May 3, 2025. Applicants must submit a resume with a minimum of three references. Position is open until filled.