Director - Lowell TAO

Commonwealth of Massachusetts•Lowell, MA

About The Position

The Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) seeks a Local Office Director to manage all programs administered by the Department in the communities served by the Lowell Transitional Assistance Office. Programs include Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children (TAFDC), Emergency Aid to the Elderly, Disabled, and Children (EAEDC), Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and Employment Services. The Director develops efficient operating approaches, supports accurate eligibility determinations and timely benefit processing, builds community and agency partnerships, and manages staff to advance DTA’s anti-poverty mission and provide excellent customer service. The position oversees office staffing and operational needs, including personnel changes, staffing plans, equipment, space, and supplies. The Director supports staff development and job satisfaction, evaluates performance, and represents DTA in relationships with state agencies, community organizations, and stakeholders. The role also networks with community stakeholders to develop and maintain a TAO Advisory Board. DTA administers public assistance programs for low-income residents of Massachusetts. Its mission is to assist and empower individuals and families to meet basic needs, improve quality of life, and achieve long-term economic self-sufficiency through food and nutritional assistance, economic assistance, and employment support. A criminal and tax history background check is required for the recommended candidate before hiring. Education, licensure, and certifications will be verified. Reasonable accommodations are available during the application and interview process.

Requirements

At least six years of full-time or equivalent part-time professional, administrative, supervisory, or managerial experience in business administration, business management, public administration, public management, clinical administration, or clinical management; at least two years must be in a project management, supervisory, or managerial capacity, or an equivalent combination of experience and qualifying substitutions.
Ability to lead and supervise an interdisciplinary team of approximately 50 staff responsible for delivering quality customer service, resources, and services effectively and efficiently.
Ability to motivate and encourage staff.
Exceptional negotiation, conflict-resolution, and coaching skills.
Experience working with federal or state programs involving complex regulations and policies, and demonstrated ability to develop strategies for effective implementation.
Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously, including planning, delegation, and communication.
Ability to develop collaborative partnerships with multiple stakeholders, including community-based organizations and local coalitions.
Understanding of issues affecting poverty and diverse low-income populations.
Excellent verbal and written communication and reporting skills.
Strong computer skills, including email and Excel.

Nice To Haves

Experience in workforce development, education, or housing.
A certificate in a relevant or related field may substitute for one year of the required experience.
A bachelor’s degree in a related field may substitute for two years of the required experience.
A graduate degree in a related field may substitute for three years of the required experience.
A doctorate degree in a related field may substitute for four years of the required experience.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement efficient business models using available data to ensure accurate eligibility determinations and timely processing of program benefits in compliance with state and federal policies and procedures.
Collaborate with the Department of Workforce Development, Workforce Investment Boards, Employment Services Programs, and other partners to increase economic opportunities and support client self-sufficiency through work program participation and meaningful employment.
Develop and maintain community relationships in support of the agency’s mission.
Manage staff to support DTA’s anti-poverty agenda while providing excellent customer service and improved access to DTA services.
Demonstrate leadership within DTA and represent the Department to other state agencies and community organizations.
Provide program staff with opportunities for professional development and job satisfaction, and conduct consistent performance-based evaluations.
Network with community stakeholders to develop and maintain a working TAO Advisory Board.
Process and coordinate personnel changes with the Human Resources Unit.
Develop and coordinate plans to ensure adequate staffing of the Transitional Assistance Office.
Evaluate area-office needs and develop plans for personnel, equipment, space, and supplies.