Specialist – Program Design

You will be part of the largest skills development fund in Pakistan. PSDF’s purpose is to shape the future and well-being of our poor and vulnerable youth by giving them access to skills training of the highest standard so they can find sustainable employment and income-generating opportunities in Pakistan and beyond.

The impact we have created

PSDF started its operations in the 4 poorest districts of Punjab. Since 2016, the geographical remit has expanded to the entire 36 districts of Punjab and other districts of Sindh, Balochistan & KPK. PSDF has trained almost 600,000 underprivileged youth across Punjab. These graduates have been trained in approximately 250+ demand-driven and market-relevant trades across 8 sectors.

Diversified and challenging team

At PSDF, our team constantly works in a fast-paced and challenging environment and needs someone who can match and deliver at our pace. We are looking for a passionate and talented individual who can actively pursue and drive the agenda of PSDF and is always ready to take up new challenges.

The Specialist – Program Design will lead the conceptualization, development, and optimization of demand-driven training programs and strategic initiatives aligned with organizational priorities, labor market trends, and donor requirements. The incumbent will be responsible for assisting in conducting research, designing high-impact schemes, developing operational frameworks, and ensuring programs are aligned with employability, industry demand, gender inclusion, and regional outreach objectives.

The primary job responsibilities for this role will be to:

• Assist in conducting market research, sectoral studies, and labor market analysis (internally or through outsourced research firms) to identify high-growth sectors, emerging industries, and employment-generating trades.
• Assist in design and develop employer-led, market-responsive, and sector-based training schemes aimed at maximizing employability and placement outcomes.
• Assist in developing a comprehensive program frameworks, operational models, implementation methodologies, and intervention strategies aligned with organizational and departmental objectives.
• Assess operational feasibility, sector demand, geographic relevance, and target beneficiary requirements to recommend effective and sustainable program interventions.
• Prepare concept notes, program design documents, business cases, operational guidelines, TORs, and other technical documentation for management approval.
• Develop TORs and coordinate with third-party consultants, research firms, and technical partners for outsourced assignments and specialized initiatives.
• Liaise with employers, industry associations, training providers, donor agencies, and internal stakeholders to gather insights and ensure alignment of programs with market requirements.
• Assist in analyze program performance data and prepare analytical reports, presentations, and dashboards for senior management and donor reporting purposes.
• Ensure incorporation of gender inclusion, regional diversity, soft skills integration, and quality assurance mechanisms within all program designs.
• Support innovation and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance program effectiveness, efficiency, and impact.
• Monitor emerging labor market trends, economic developments, and international best practices to strengthen program design approaches.
• Provide technical support to cross-functional teams during program development and implementation phases.
• Perform any other assignments related to program design, research, and strategic initiatives as assigned by management.

Qualification & Experience

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree with Public Policy, Business Administration/Marketing/Economics/Social Sciences or a relevant discipline from a HEC recognized / accredited university.
• A minimum of 3 years of experience in a relevant / similar field.
• Experience in Program Management / Program Execution / Program Design / Curriculum Development will be preferred.

Required Skills

• Strong expertise in research methodologies, data analysis, and report writing.
• Experience in assisting in designing development programs, schemes, or workforce development initiatives will be preferred.
• Sound understanding of labor market dynamics, skills development ecosystem, and employer engagement strategies.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite, particularly Excel, PowerPoint, and data reporting tools.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and stakeholder management skills.

PSDF has a lot more to offer than a market competitive salary and perks. As a PSDF employee you will get:

• Professional development and career growth opportunities with the largest skills development fund in Pakistan.
• Experience a dynamic innovation-driven environment committed to empowering youth through employment and entrepreneurship.
• Opportunity to lead and execute groundbreaking approaches to skills development for Pakistan’s youth.