The NJ Chamber of Commerce Foundation anticipates a grant-funded opening for a Special Projects Coordinator in February 2026. Interested candidates should email their resumes to Donna Custard: donna.custard@njchamber.com by January 23, 2026.
Job Summary
The Special Projects Coordinator supports the planning, coordination, and implementation of grant-funded and programmatic initiatives that strengthen education-to-career pathways for students served by Jobs for America’s Graduates New Jersey (JAG NJ). Reporting to the President of the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce Foundation (NJCCF), this position plays a key role in advancing defined special projects by coordinating partners, tracking progress, and ensuring effective execution.
In addition to coordinating project activities and partners, the Special Projects Coordinator supports internal operations by developing meeting and conference agendas, preparing and updating presentation materials, reviewing internal program reports, and synthesizing information for leadership and stakeholders. The role also assists with maintaining and updating internal policy documents, handbooks, and procedural resources. This position is well suited for a detail-oriented professional with strong organizational, communication, and documentation skills who can manage multiple priorities and support cross-functional initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
Project Coordination and Implementation
- Support the implementation of special projects aligned with NJCCF and JAG NJ priorities, including initiatives identified by the NJCCF President and Board.
- Coordinate project timelines, deliverables, and logistics to ensure activities remain on track.
- Assist with developing work plans, tracking milestones, and documenting outcomes.
- Support internal coordination among NJCCF staff to ensure alignment and information sharing across projects.
Partner and Stakeholder Support - Serve as a primary point of contact for project-related communications and coordination with education, workforce, nonprofit, industry, and state partners.
- Schedule and support meetings, maintain partner relationships, and assist with outreach and engagement activities (excluding fundraising).
Postsecondary and Career Pathway Support - Assist with initiatives that expose JAG NJ students to postsecondary options, credential pathways, and career exploration opportunities.
- Support coordination with education and training partners related to college credit, credentialing, work-based learning, or pilot programs.
Project Tracking, Reporting, and Documentation - Track project activities, participation, and outcomes in alignment with grant requirements; support data collection, reporting, and preparation of narrative summaries and briefing materials.
- Review and synthesize program data and documentation to identify trends and key insights, and provide regular updates and summary information to the NJCCF President and other internal stakeholders.
Administrative and Operational Support - Coordinate logistics and provide administrative support for meetings, site visits, events, and partner engagements related to special projects.
- Develop agendas and prepare supporting materials, including slide decks and presentations, for internal meetings, conferences, and partner briefings.
- Support operational needs by maintaining internal documents and resources and assisting with expense tracking and documentation for grant-funded activities.
Postsecondary and Credential Pathway Innovation - Support initiatives that enable JAG NJ students to earn college credit, industry-recognized credentials, or advanced standing while still in high school.
- Coordinate with national partners, including the College Board and JAG National, to explore alignment between JAG NJ programming and emerging academic offerings.
- Assess opportunities for replication or scaling of successful models across the JAG NJ network.
Qualifications - Bachelor’s degree in education, public policy, nonprofit management, business, communications, or a related field preferred.
- Two to four years of experience in project coordination, nonprofit programs, education, workforce development, or a related field.
- Experience supporting multi-partner or grant-funded initiatives is a must.
Skills and Competencies - Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
- Clear written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively with diverse partners and internal teams.
- Attention to detail and comfort tracking information, timelines, and documentation.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Compensation and Benefits: The Special Projects Coordinator position offers a salary range of $70,000–$75,000, commensurate with experience.
The NJCCF offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, dental insurance, a 401(k) retirement plan with a 3% employer match that is immediately vested, long-term disability insurance, and life insurance. Employees receive 19 prorated paid time off days in their first year, paid holidays including seven federal holidays and up to seven additional holidays at the discretion of the President of the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce. The position is based in a historic Trenton brownstone and offers a hybrid work schedule.
Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: The New Jersey Chamber of Commerce Foundation is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace. The NJCCF strongly encourages qualified candidates from historically underrepresented and marginalized communities, including people of color and women, to apply. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.
Travel Requirements:
Valid driver’s license and ability to travel within New Jersey as needed for meetings, site visits, or events. Limited regional or national travel may be required.
Reports to: President, New Jersey Chamber of Commerce Foundation
Job Type: Full-time, grant-funded position. This position is exempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), as well as applicable New Jersey and local laws. All NJCCF employees are required to undergo a criminal background check as a condition of employment.