Professional Development Specialist

Company: American Culinary Federation
Location: Jacksonville
Posted on: February 14, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description Salary: $42,000 - $47,000 PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST DIVISION: Education and Career Development Services POSITION TITLE: Professional Development Specialist REPORTS TO: Program Manager of Continuing Education DIRECT REPORTS: None STATUS: Exempt LOCATION: In-Office/Hybrid Jacksonville, FL Remote if applicable SALARY: $42,000-$47,000 Interdepartmental Collaboration: This role involves close collaboration with ACF staff and volunteers. Position Summary: The Professional Development Specialist is responsible for (1) maintaining oversight of the departmental projects (2) providing administrative support to ensure all aspects of the department programs are completed in a timely manner (3) ensuring open communication and excellent customer service to all stakeholders involved, both internal and external. This individual must possess strong administrative, computer and organizational skills, and be adept at prioritizing and managing multiple tasks simultaneously. Strong attention to detail, customer service, as well as verbal and written communication skills are necessary. Key Responsibilities: Manage and maintain the ACF Online Learning Center (OLC), partnering with subject matter experts (SMEs) to develop and update courses, build and revise learning content and assessments. Oversee ongoing courses and exam maintenance to ensure accuracy, functionality, and a high-quality learner experience. Handle the advisory opinion letter process for visa requests. Work in conjunction with the communication department for special projects related to the publications. Provide support to the ACFEF Student Knowledge Bowl Program Provide support to certification program. Other departmental projects and duties as assigned. Educational Requirements: Associates degree in business, communications, or marketing, or associates degree with project management certification. Exposure to hospitality/culinary industry preferred. Experience Requirements: Minimum of two years of experience in project management preferred. Experience in culinary is preferred. Public speaking experience; must be able to communicate professionally, effectively, and diplomatically. Skills and Traits: Strong skills in using project management tools. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail and ability to establish, monitor, and meet timelines. Good communication and interpersonal skills capable of maintaining strong relationships. Able to communicate professionally, effectively and diplomatically. Must work well under pressure with demonstrated ability to multi-task, prioritize and manage competing deadlines. Must be able to work independently, as well as in a team environment. Competent decision maker. Desired Traits: Honed interpersonal and time-management skills Collaborator Positive Problem solver Proactive Work Environment: This position is an in-office/hybrid position with the option of three days in the Jacksonville, FL office. Remote work may be applicable. Limited travel may be required. The ACF is not just a workplace; it's a drug-free and smoke-free community of culinary enthusiasts.

Keywords: American Culinary Federation, Jacksonville , Professional Development Specialist, Administration, Clerical , Jacksonville, Florida