Public Service Manager I-DBVI Assistant Director

State of Maine•Augusta, ME

5d•$69,181 - $98,280•Onsite

About The Position

The Maine Division for the Blind and Visually Impaired (DBVI), within the Department of Labor’s Bureau of Rehabilitation Services, is seeking an Assistant Director to join its leadership team. DBVI provides and contracts for comprehensive services to individuals who are blind or visually impaired across the lifespan, supporting employment, education, independence, and life goals through vocational rehabilitation, blindness and low-vision services, orientation and mobility, independent living services, the Business Enterprise Program, education and transition services, and community-based services and support. The Assistant Director is a key member of the DBVI leadership team and provides strategic and operational leadership for the Division’s programs and services. Working closely with the Director, this role oversees day-to-day operations; implements policies and initiatives; monitors program performance and compliance; supports staff and organizational development; and strengthens partnerships that advance DBVI’s mission. The position calls for strong communication, sound judgment, collaboration, and the ability to balance strategic priorities with operational demands. A significant in-person presence at the Augusta central office is required, along with statewide travel as needed to support programs, staff, partners, and individuals receiving services.

Requirements

Eight years of experience managing or overseeing programs serving individuals who are blind or visually impaired, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Knowledge of state and federal laws, rules, regulations, policies, and requirements applicable to DBVI programs and services.
Knowledge of DBVI policies, goals, objectives, and service delivery systems.
Knowledge of public-sector administration, program management, and organizational practices.
Knowledge of casework, service delivery, and case management practices.
Knowledge of budget development, fiscal management, and resource allocation.
Knowledge of federal grant administration, reporting, and compliance.
Knowledge of contract development, administration, and monitoring.
Knowledge of legislative processes and public policy.
Knowledge of employment resources, workforce development, and employment practices.
Knowledge of training, professional development, and staff development resources.
Knowledge of technical writing and professional communication.
Ability to lead, plan, coordinate, implement, and evaluate multiple diverse programs and activities.
Ability to translate organizational goals, policies, and requirements into effective operational practices.
Ability to analyze program data and use information to improve performance and outcomes.
Ability to manage budgets, resources, grants, and contracts with accountability and compliance.
Ability to develop and maintain effective partnerships with state agencies, community organizations, service providers, and other stakeholders.
Ability to lead, support, and develop a diverse workforce in a collaborative and supportive environment.
Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
Ability to exercise sound judgment and make informed decisions in complex situations.
Ability to manage competing priorities while maintaining accountability for results.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, partners, stakeholders, and individuals served by DBVI.
Ability to represent DBVI professionally and effectively in internal and external settings.

Nice To Haves

A master’s degree is preferred.
CRC, COMS, CLVT, or CVRT certification is preferred.

Responsibilities

Partner with the Director to develop and implement operational strategies, policies, and initiatives that advance DBVI’s mission and priorities.
Provide leadership, mentorship, and oversight for DBVI’s managers and field staff in carrying out programs, services, and operations.
Make operational and policy decisions in collaboration with the Director and ensure continuity of leadership during the Director’s absence.
Monitor program performance, data, outcomes, and compliance with federal and state requirements and established standards.
Identify and implement opportunities to improve programs, service delivery, accessibility, and outcomes.
Oversee the development, administration, monitoring, and compliance of contracts and agreements.
Collaborate with the Director on budget development, fiscal management, resource allocation, and program priorities.
Supervise, support, and develop staff while promoting effective communication, teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement.
Develop and maintain effective relationships with state agencies, community organizations, service providers, and other stakeholders.
Represent DBVI on committees, workgroups, and in public and professional settings.

Benefits

13 paid holidays, 12 days of sick leave, and 3+ weeks of vacation leave annually; vacation accrual increases with years of service, and overtime-exempt employees receive personal leave.
The State pays 85%–100% of employee-only health insurance premiums, depending on salary; dependent coverage is also available.
A 5% employee-only health insurance premium credit is available for participation in the applicable program.
The State pays 100% of employee-only dental insurance premiums.
The State contributes 18.86% of pay to the Maine Public Employees Retirement System (MainePERS).
Gym membership reimbursement of up to $40 per month.
Health and dependent care flexible spending accounts.
Eligibility for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness.
Employee assistance program through the Living Resources Program.
Forty-two consecutive calendar days of fully paid parental leave for employees welcoming a child; additional unpaid leave may be available under the Family and Medical Leave Act.
Voluntary deferred compensation through a MaineSaves 457(b) account.