Program Manager III

State of Maryland•Annapolis, MD

About The Position

Join Us in Making a Difference at DJS! The Maryland Department of Juvenile Services (DJS) is dedicated to transforming young lives, creating safer communities, and fostering equitable systems. We are seeking passionate individuals for the role of Director of Licensing and Monitoring (Program Manager III) , so join our team and make a meaningful impact on youth and the community at DJS! The Director of Licensing and Monitoring provides executive leadership and strategic oversight for the licensing, monitoring, and compliance of residential and community-based programs licensed or contracted by the Maryland Department of Juvenile Services. This position ensures that programs meet all applicable federal, state, and departmental laws, regulations, and standards, including COMAR requirements, while promoting youth safety, quality services, and continuous improvement across the Department’s continuum of care. The position provides direct supervision and guidance to the Licensing and Monitoring Unit (L&M) within the Office of the Inspector General (OIG).

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Public Administration, Policy, Law, Social or Behavioral Sciences (such as Criminal Justice, Sociology, Psychology, Human Services/Human Development Child and Adolescent Studies, or Social Work).
At least 5 years of managerial or supervisory experience at a professional services level in juvenile justice, human services, licensing, regulatory compliance, quality assurance, or program oversight.

Nice To Haves

Experience interpreting and applying statutes, regulations, and licensing standards.
Knowledge of the juvenile justice system, residential and community-based services, and youth-serving programs.
Experience working with contracted service providers and managing compliance of a corrective action process.
Strong understanding of regulatory frameworks, licensing processes, and compliance enforcement.
Experience developing or managing policies, procedures, and operational frameworks for compliance units.
Excellent organization skills and detail oriented.
Experience partnering with system and community stakeholders and system-impacted youth and families.
Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with diverse populations and all levels of management, employees, stakeholders, and communities.
Ability to exercise sound judgement in matters affecting youth safety and program integrity.

Responsibilities

Works directly with the Deputy Inspector General, Inspector General and other executive leadership staff to ensure the well-being and safety of youth in DJS care to meet the department's vision, mission, goals and objectives.
Manages the licensing and monitoring system for DJS-licensed juvenile facilities and private contracted programs.
Ensures compliance with COMAR, DJS policies and procedures, contractual requirements, and applicable federal standards.
Oversees monitoring, investigations, corrective action plans, enforcement actions, and license determinations with regard to the programs licensed or contracted by DJS.
Leads and supervises professional staff engaged in licensing, monitoring and compliance activities.
Interprets regulations and provides guidance to providers, legal counsel, executive leadership, and external stakeholders.
Develops policy recommendations and supports regulatory updates related to licensing and monitoring.
Represents DJS in hearings, appeals, interagency meetings, and public forums related to program oversight.