Program Project Specialist 1

Arizona Department of Administration • Phoenix, AZ

20h • Onsite

About The Position

The Arizona Department of Agriculture (AZDA) is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Program Project Specialist 1 for its Central Licensing Unit in Phoenix, Arizona. Under the direction of the Program Project Specialist 2, this position analyzes and interprets central licensing program regulations and needs; develops standard operating procedures, technical guidance, and program forms; and develops and monitors standards for evaluating program effectiveness and implementing improvements. The specialist also provides technical guidance and training to staff and customers as needed.

The role includes reviewing applicable laws and regulations, monitoring compliance with regulatory and auditing standards, researching and reporting on licensing program activity, maintaining program metrics and visual management tools, gathering stakeholder feedback, and coordinating licensing public records requests. In-state travel is required. Employees who drive on state business must meet the stated driver’s license, training, and record requirements. Employment is contingent on successful background and reference checks and completion of E-Verify requirements.

Requirements

• Knowledge of licensing practices and procedures.
• Knowledge of problem-solving methodologies.
• Knowledge of process mapping or other procedural analysis practices.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency with computer systems and software, such as Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, Adobe Acrobat, and web-based applications.
• Technical and business writing skills.
• Ability to analyze and interpret data to develop informed courses of action.
• Ability to prioritize and manage time efficiently.
• Ability to facilitate team projects and problem-solving efforts.
• Ability to develop metrics, flow boards, and other visual management tools.
• Ability to analyze and interpret laws, rules, and policies.
• Ability to develop procedures, analyze problems, and design effective solutions.
• Ability to work independently and prioritize workload with minimal supervision.
• Ability to maintain professional working relationships with internal and external customers.
• In-state travel is required.
• Employees operating a motor vehicle on state business must possess and retain a current, valid, class-appropriate driver’s license, complete required training, pass required driver’s license record checks, and maintain an acceptable driving record. Employees using a personally owned vehicle on state business must maintain statutorily required liability insurance.
• Must successfully pass background and reference checks; employment is contingent on completion of the stated pre-employment process and the agency’s ability to reasonably accommodate any restrictions.
• Newly hired State employees must successfully complete the Electronic Employment Eligibility Verification Program (E-Verify).

Nice To Haves

• Previous experience interpreting statutes and rules.
• Previous experience developing and monitoring standards.
• Previous administrative experience.
• Previous training experience.
• A bachelor’s degree in policy administration, political science, or public relations is desired.

Responsibilities

• Review and interpret applicable laws and regulations and monitor program compliance with regulatory and auditing standards.
• Develop and update standard operating procedures for central licensing functions.
• Identify, manage, and assist with program improvement projects.
• Conduct and compile research, statistics, and reports for the licensing program.
• Develop and maintain metrics, standards, and visual management tools to monitor program effectiveness.
• Make recommendations for program goals and facilitate team problem-solving efforts.
• Communicate with customers and stakeholders to obtain input and feedback on the program.
• Develop technical guidance for the website and other publication materials.
• Develop and update program forms.
• Assist with orientation, onboarding, and training of new licensing staff.
• Provide technical training, guidance, and assistance to customers and stakeholders as needed.
• Coordinate fulfillment of licensing public records requests.

Benefits

• Sick leave.
• Vacation and 10 paid holidays per year.
• Paid parental leave of up to 12 weeks per year for a newborn or newly placed foster or adopted child (pilot program).
• Health and dental insurance.
• Retirement plan through the Arizona State Retirement System.
• Life insurance and long-term disability insurance.
• Optional short-term disability insurance, deferred compensation plans, and supplemental life insurance.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed