DHHS Program Specialist

State of Nebraska•Lincoln, NE

About The Position

The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services is hiring a Program Specialist to strengthen the quality and effectiveness of statewide health and human services programs. The role involves analyzing data, monitoring program performance, supporting federal reporting requirements, and developing quality improvement strategies to improve outcomes. The specialist collaborates with agency staff and service providers, provides technical guidance, and uses data to inform improvements to services for Nebraskans. The position plans, implements, monitors, and evaluates health and human services programs; interprets applicable laws and requirements; prepares policies, reports, and documentation; evaluates program effectiveness; and develops training, quality assurance processes, and improvement plans. It also includes conducting desk audits, monitoring service providers and records for compliance, and coordinating with agency divisions and external organizations.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree, or equivalent coursework or training, in public administration, social or behavioral sciences, healthcare, human services, or another program-related field.
Professional experience working in a human or social service or health care agency with responsibility for planning or evaluating services, programs, or operational policies and practices may substitute for the educational requirement.
Knowledge of public administration, policy and procedure development, program planning, federal and state laws and regulations related to health and human services programs, quality assurance, and methods for monitoring and evaluating programs and service delivery.
Skill in interpreting and explaining policies.
Ability to work collaboratively and build positive working relationships with agency staff, service providers, contractors, community organizations, clients, and other government agencies.
Ability to analyze, develop, and organize information; communicate clearly in writing, electronically, and in person; prepare and review reports, action plans, and regulatory summaries; interpret and apply laws, rules, policies, procedures, and instructions; exercise critical thinking and independent judgment; and coordinate with community representatives and other agencies.

Nice To Haves

Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including data analysis and reporting.
Experience using data to identify trends, evaluate program performance, and prepare reports.
Experience with Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers or other Medicaid programs.
Experience developing and implementing quality assurance processes, quality improvement plans, and performance metrics.

Responsibilities

Plan, implement, monitor, and evaluate health and human services programs to support effective day-to-day operations.
Review and interpret federal and state laws, regulations, and requirements to develop and update program policies and procedures.
Research program requirements and prepare policies, reports, and other documents in coordination with department staff, other agencies, and service providers.
Prepare required federal and state reports, forms, and related documentation.
Evaluate program effectiveness, identify training needs, and develop and deliver training to agency staff and service providers.
Develop quality assurance processes and program improvement plans to monitor performance and improve service delivery.
Conduct desk audits, analyze data, and prepare reports and recommendations.
Research best practices and recommend improvements to strengthen program quality and service delivery.
Coordinate with other department divisions and outside agencies to obtain resources and support effective program operations.
Monitor service providers for compliance with program policies, procedures, laws, regulations, and contract requirements.
Review service and payment records to identify potential improper service utilization and ensure compliance with established program standards.
Perform other duties as assigned.