LTSS Assistant Director

the South Dakota State Government•Statewide, SD

10d•Onsite

About The Position

The Assistant Director provides leadership and operational oversight within the Division of Long Term Services and Supports (LTSS), including Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS), the CMS HOPE Waiver, quality assurance, provider operations, Dakota at Home, and statewide Case Management. The position also collaborates with Nurse Consultants, Adult Protective Services, Older Americans Act programs, and other service areas to promote coordinated and consistent program operations. The Assistant Director leads complex projects and initiatives involving policy development, provider monitoring, regulatory compliance, quality improvement, and operational effectiveness. The role translates strategic priorities into actionable plans, coordinates resources, and ensures projects and program responsibilities are completed effectively and in alignment with Division goals. The Department of Human Services supports older adults and individuals with disabilities through person-centered services that promote independence and inclusion. Applicants may possess any combination of education, training, and experience that demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform the duties. A bachelor's degree in a related field is preferred.

Requirements

Any combination of education, training, and experience demonstrating the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform the duties.
Knowledge of leadership, staff development, and effective team management practices.
Knowledge of project management, program administration, quality assurance, and continuous improvement principles.
Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws, regulations, policies, and requirements governing Medicaid, HCBS, and related long-term services and supports programs.
Knowledge of data analysis, performance measurement, and risk assessment methods.
Skill in planning, organizing, and managing multiple projects, priorities, and deadlines.
Skill in analyzing data, identifying trends, evaluating options, and developing recommendations.
Skill in interpreting and applying laws, regulations, and policies.
Skill in preparing reports, developing procedures, and composing clear, professional correspondence.
Skill in communicating complex information effectively to employees, leadership, providers, stakeholders, and the public.
Ability to establish clear direction and connect program activities to Division and Department priorities.
Ability to coordinate initiatives across teams, build consensus, and facilitate implementation.
Ability to gather and consider staff and stakeholder input to support informed decisions and consistent practices.
Ability to delegate responsibilities, monitor progress, address barriers, and ensure accountability for results.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, clients and their families, providers, community partners, public officials, and other stakeholders.
Applicants must attach a resume and apply online; emailed resumes or submissions will not be accepted.
Must verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete Form I-9. The State uses E-Verify upon hire.
The State of South Dakota does not sponsor work visas for new or existing employees.

Nice To Haves

A bachelor's degree in a related field is preferred.
Demonstrated leadership experience, including developing employees, fostering teamwork, and creating a positive culture built on trust, respect, and accountability.
A collaborative approach that values staff expertise, seeks diverse perspectives, and builds alignment across teams, including those outside direct supervision.
Strong organizational and project management skills, including prioritizing competing demands, establishing clear expectations, and ensuring follow-through.
Sound judgment and a solutions-oriented mindset, using data, stakeholder input, and thoughtful analysis to make informed decisions.
Ability to navigate complex programs, regulatory requirements, and organizational change while maintaining focus on outcomes.
Commitment to continuous improvement, open communication, and effective partnerships that advance shared goals.

Responsibilities

Provide leadership and operational oversight for LTSS programs, including HCBS, the CMS HOPE Waiver, quality assurance, provider operations, Dakota at Home, and statewide Case Management.
Collaborate with Nurse Consultants, Adult Protective Services, Older Americans Act programs, and other service areas to promote coordinated and consistent operations.
Lead complex projects and initiatives involving policy development, provider monitoring, regulatory compliance, quality improvement, and operational effectiveness.
Translate strategic priorities into actionable plans, coordinate resources, and ensure projects and program responsibilities are completed in alignment with Division goals.
Develop employees, foster teamwork, and support a positive culture built on trust, respect, and accountability.
Plan, organize, and manage multiple projects, priorities, and deadlines; establish clear expectations and ensure follow-through.
Analyze data, identify trends, evaluate options, and develop recommendations.
Interpret and apply laws, regulations, and policies; prepare reports, develop procedures, and compose professional correspondence.
Coordinate initiatives across teams, build consensus, gather staff and stakeholder input, and facilitate effective implementation.
Delegate responsibilities, monitor progress, address barriers, and ensure accountability for results.
Identify opportunities for improvement and develop practical solutions to complex operational challenges.
Establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, clients and their families, providers, community partners, public officials, and other stakeholders.
Adapt to changing priorities while exercising sound judgment, flexibility, and professionalism.

Benefits

15 days/120 hours of vacation leave.
14 days/112 hours of sick leave.
11 paid holidays.
Employee health insurance, including a plan with a $0 premium for employee-only coverage.
Flexible benefits including dental, vision, life insurance, critical illness coverage, and more.
Paid parental and family medical leave.
6% fully matched retirement plan; position is a member of Class A retirement under SDRS.
Reduced tuition for in-state colleges and universities.
Employee wellness program.
Continued education and training opportunities.