About The Position

The Oregon Department of Human Services is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are guided by our Equity North Star and our vision for a positive RiSE organizational culture that advances equity and diversity. We encourage applications from members of historically underrepresented racial/ethnic groups, women, individuals with disabilities, veterans, LGBTQIA2S+ community members, and others to help us achieve our vision of a diverse and inclusive community. Opportunity awaits! If you are a visionary, mission-driven leader ready to create lasting impact, we invite you to bring your passion and expertise to this exciting opportunity. As Executive Director, you will shape the future of developmental disabilities services and lead meaningful systems change, partnering with the Council to implement its federally mandated five-year State Plan and annual action plans. As the Council’s primary representative, you will build powerful partnerships with community leaders and policymakers, advancing inclusion, independence, and opportunity for people with developmental disabilities and making a difference felt across the state.

Requirements

  • Six years of supervision, management, or progressively related experience; OR three years of related experience and a bachelor’s degree in a related field.
  • Must have access to reliable transportation to perform the essential duties of the position, which may include travel to all parts of the state.
  • Strategic & Operational Leadership: Demonstrated executive-level leadership with experience in strategic planning, fiscal oversight, staff supervision, and organizational management grounded in accountability and transparency.
  • Mission-Driven & Values-Based Leadership: Deep commitment to disability rights, inclusion, and person-centered practices, with the ability to align decisions and actions with the council’s vision, mission, and core values.
  • Authentic Engagement of Self-Advocates: Proven ability to meaningfully engage self-advocates and individuals with lived experience in decision-making, ensuring accessibility and shared leadership.
  • Policy & Systems Advocacy: Strong knowledge of local, state, and federal policy impacting the I/DD community, with experience in systems advocacy, legislative engagement, and coalition-building.
  • Knowledge of I/DD Systems: Comprehensive understanding of I/DD service systems, funding streams, and systemic barriers, including cross-system collaboration and systems-change strategies.
  • Equity & Statewide Perspective: Demonstrated commitment to equity and cultural responsiveness, with the ability to engage diverse communities across the state and navigate differing regional priorities.
  • Collaboration & Communication: Skilled relationship-builder and communicator who can convene partners, foster trust, manage conflict, and clearly articulate complex issues to varied audiences.
  • A cover letter is required. Clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications and essential attributes in your application materials.
  • Please include detailed work and education history.
  • Please make sure your application materials, resume and job history are clearly outlined as this information will be used to determine your starting salary range.
  • If you are selected as the final candidate and a degree is listed as a minimum qualification for the position, please be prepared to provide verification of your completed education before moving forward in the hiring process.
  • Note: Your resume and cover letter may be uploaded in the Resume/CV field on the online application.
  • The use of outside resources such as Artificial Intelligence software during applicant skill assessments, examinations, and/or interviews is prohibited unless otherwise stated by the hiring agency. Unauthorized use of outside resources during the hiring process will result in disqualification.
  • The State of Oregon does not request or require your age, date of birth, attendance or graduation dates from an educational institution during the application process.

Responsibilities

  • Lead and manage overall Council operations, including staff supervision, program implementation, and execution of the 5-Year State Plan and annual goals.
  • Ensure compliance with federal and state requirements, including planning, evaluation, and submission of required reports.
  • Oversee fiscal operations, including budgets, grants, contracts, and financial stewardship of public resources.
  • Provide strategic leadership in public policy, advocacy, and systems change at the state and national levels.
  • Build and maintain strong partnerships with stakeholders, policymakers, and community organizations.
  • Foster an inclusive, respectful, and culturally responsive workplace aligned with core values and equity principles.
  • Represent the Council in public forums, committees, and coalitions while advancing its mission and priorities.

Benefits

  • ODHS Employee Resource Group communities that promote shared learning.
  • Cost of Living Adjustments.
  • Annual salary increases (until you reach the top of the listed salary range).
  • Amazing benefits package.
  • Possible eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
© 2026 Teal Labs, Inc
Privacy PolicyTerms of Service