Project Manager, State Complaints

Oklahoma State Government•Oklahoma City, OK

11h•$60,000 - $70,000•Onsite

About The Position

At the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE), we go beyond merely offering jobs – we actively seek out extraordinary individuals to join our team. As the primary agency entrusted with overseeing K-12 public education in Oklahoma, we are steadfastly devoted to making a meaningful impact on the districts and students we serve. Our exceptional team at OSDE is renowned for its commitment to superior customer service, innovation, and unwavering dedication to shaping a brighter future for students across the state. We work hand-in-hand with over 500 school districts and maintain a close partnership with the legislature, ensuring that each Oklahoma student receives the exceptional education they deserve. If you're in search of a fulfilling career that allows you to make a profound difference in the lives of children, you've arrived at the right place. Join us in our mission to empower students and elevate the standard of education in Oklahoma. For further insights into OSDE, please visit our website at Oklahoma.gov/education . The Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) is seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented State Complaint Investigator to join our Office of Special Education. In this position, you will play a vital role in resolving disputes between parents and districts and requiring compliance with special education laws and regulations. Your knowledge of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and expertise in conducting thorough investigations will contribute to ensuring the provision of high-quality special education services across the state. Please note: This role requires full in-person attendance, with no options for remote work, telecommuting, or hybrid arrangements. The nature of this position necessitates a consistent in-person presence, and candidates should be prepared to fulfill all responsibilities on-site at the designated workplace in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

Requirements

Master’s Degree in Special Education, Education, or a related field; or Juris Doctorate (official transcripts required upon hire)
Valid teaching certification in Special Education or Educational Administration, or an active law license to practice in Oklahoma (or equivalent relevant experience)
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without sponsorship
Successful completion of a pre-employment background check
Must possess a valid driver’s license from a U.S. state or territory to perform necessary job-related travel.

Responsibilities

Remain up to date on the latest developments in special education laws and regulations.
Show comprehensive knowledge and understanding of both Federal and State laws, regulations, and compliance mandates pertaining to special education.
Exhibit a thorough grasp of proper evaluation, eligibility criteria, and IEP documentation in accordance with applicable guidelines.
Demonstrate familiarity with the range of special education services and related support services.
Ensure proficiency in using Oklahoma's online IEP system for efficient documentation and management.
Conduct comprehensive investigations of State Complaints, engaging in interviews through phone, virtual platforms, or in-person meetings with complainants, administrators, and educators to gather comprehensive information and insights related to the delivery of special education services.
Thoroughly review and analyze confidential student-level files, records, and other pertinent data.
When required, perform on-site visits to schools to identify potential areas of non-compliance and to ensure adherence to both federal and state laws and regulations.
Document all observations and findings in a detailed and accurate manner, maintaining meticulous records of the investigation process.
Conduct in-depth research on pertinent State and Federal regulations and case law pertaining to State Complaints.
Exhibit exceptional proficiency in communicating ideas clearly and concisely through both verbal and written means, adhering to formal and informal writing styles.
Showcase exemplary organizational skills to meet pressing timelines as stipulated in the IDEA guidelines.
Generate comprehensive and precise reports, leading to well-informed decisions regarding IDEA State Complaints.
As necessary, oversee the assignment and progress monitoring of corrective action plans based on the outcomes and determinations of State Complaints.
Support the Program Manager of Regulatory Compliance in implementing the general supervision system of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) by focusing on Dispute Resolution, particularly State Complaints.
Engage in collaborative efforts with internal teams, including program managers and policy experts, to ensure alignment with the overarching special education requirements outlined in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
Foster productive and harmonious working relationships with parents/families, educators, administrators, and other stakeholder groups to enhance understanding and adherence to IDEA compliance.
Exhibit a positive, empathetic, and professional attitude.
Build relationships, display integrity, and maintain professionalism in communication, behavior, and appearance.
Embrace feedback for performance improvement.
Ensure reliable and punctual in-person presence for quality teamwork, productivity, and collaboration.
Demonstrate commitment by being engaged, available, and dependable to colleagues and customers.
Identify and address evolving needs and challenges in education.
Apply critical thinking, explore new ideas, and embrace innovative approaches to enhance educational outcomes for all students.
Utilize creativity, resourcefulness, and forward-thinking to drive positive change and find solutions to complex problems in the field of education.
Maximize resource utilization and streamline operations.
Optimize processes, eliminate redundancies, and leverage technology to enhance productivity and performance.
Proactively identify efficiency opportunities and implement best practices for continuous improvement.
Go above and beyond to deliver exceptional assistance that surpasses expectations.
Create positive experiences and build trust-based relationships.
Maintain a positive and helpful attitude, using appropriate language, tone, and behavior to consistently reflect the agency positively and leave a favorable impression.

Benefits

Generous Benefits Allowance: Up to $21,934.08 annually, tailored to family size, for purchasing benefits.
Comprehensive Insurance Plans: Choose from a variety of insurance plans with no pre-existing conditions, exclusions, or limitations.
Flexible Spending Accounts: Manage healthcare expenses and/or dependent care with ease.
Full Participation in TRS: Enjoy employer-covered contributions (7.5% of annual salary) for Teacher’s Retirement System participation.
Generous Leave Policy: Full-time employees receive 15 days of vacation and 15 days of sick leave in their first year.
Paid Holidays: Benefit from 11 paid holidays per year.
Employee Discounts: Access discounts with various companies and vendors.
Longevity Bonus: Earn a bonus after completing two years of service, with bonuses continuing annually thereafter.
Compensatory Time: FLSA Exempt and Nonexempt employees receive compensatory time.
Employee Assistance Program: Access support and resources through our Employee Assistance Program.