Reentry Support Specialist

State of Montana•Helena, MT

9h•Hybrid

About The Position

Be the bridge to brighter futures for individuals returning to Montana communities. As a Reentry Program Support Specialist, you’ll help coordinate vital support, provide expert guidance, and ensure that those exiting incarceration have the tools and connections needed to thrive—shaping stronger communities through collaboration, service, and second chances MISSION STATEMENT: Empowering all Montanans through work and opportunity. DLI CORE VALUES: Responsiveness Respect Integrity Excellence Cohesiveness It's about the people and the impact we make in our communities every day. We are proud of our open, team-based, supportive, and collaborative work environments. Learn more about DLI here. Position Overview: The Reentry Program Support Specialist is essential for helping former offenders successfully reintegrate into Montana communities. In this role, you will research laws and best practices, communicate complex program information, and support training and data resource needs for reentry initiatives. You will coordinate collaborative efforts among agencies and organizations, safeguard privacy, and help drive program improvements through data analysis and continuous learning. The position requires strong research, communication, and teamwork skills, as well as a commitment to building robust support networks for former offenders.

Requirements

Proficiency in MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint to develop internal documentation, produce reports, and create accessible materials for former offenders and service providers.
Thorough knowledge of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Programs to connect formerly incarcerated individuals with training, employment, and supportive services.
Familiarity with reentry initiatives that promote employment, reduce recidivism, and meet local, state, and federal benchmarks.
Understanding of local, regional, statewide, and national Labor Market Information to help match former offenders with in-demand occupations and training opportunities.
Skill in researching, analyzing, interpreting, and applying complex policies, as well as monitoring program results and outcomes.
Ability to work effectively in a team environment, demonstrating initiative and accountability to maintain high productivity.
Experience participating in statewide and regional meetings to improve reentry outcomes and foster collaborative relationships.
Proficiency in providing training and facilitating meetings, utilizing technology to communicate ideas and enhance the learner’s experience.
Strong ability to collaborate with and build trust across Montana state agencies and Community Based Organizations, particularly when working remotely.
Continuous Improvement mindset—able to propose process enhancement ideas for program success and engage in effective problem solving.
Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively in public settings by delivering clear, engaging, and informative presentations tailored to diverse audiences, including staff, leadership, and external stakeholders.
Skilled in developing professional presentation materials that convey complex information in an accessible and visually compelling manner, ensuring audience understanding and engagement.
Familiarity with reentry, criminal justice, or human service systems, including knowledge of common barriers to employment, housing, education, and community reintegration.
Skill in engaging a wide range of partners—such as employers, social service providers, government agencies, or nonprofit organizations.
Ability to communicate clearly and professionally in writing and public settings, including preparing reports and presentations for participants, partner agencies, and supervisors.
Demonstrated strength in researching, analyzing, and applying program requirements, regulations, and policies, alongside monitoring program outcomes.
Skilled at coordinating and participating in meetings that improve reentry outcomes and building partnerships.
Ability to interpret labor market data to match former offenders with in-demand opportunities.
Skills may be gained through a combination of professional experience, training, or education.
A Bachelor’s degree in human services, social work, workforce development, criminal justice, or a related field and two years of relevant work experience is one pathway, but not required.
Equivalent lived or work experience, case management, employment services, vocational rehabilitation, or social services is fully considered.

Responsibilities

Research state and federal laws, regulations, policies, and best practices to help interpret and implement administrative guidance and processes.
Effectively communicate program information, data and provide other professional and technical assistance.
Assist in coordinating and presenting program training.
Gather and analyze data for various reporting requirements, as well as fiscal and program planning.
Coordinate efforts between state agencies while ensuring compliance with privacy and confidentiality laws, rules and regulations.
Assist in coordinating professional development opportunities and technical assistance on Reentry service delivery, and updating procedures as needed.
Attend local, state, regional, or national meetings as needed to support the goals of the office.

Benefits

Work/life balance with hybrid schedules or partial telework may be available within the state of Montana.
38 paid days off a year including vacation, sick leave and holidays.
Military leave\: You’ll get up to 15 days of military leave with full pay.
Longevity raises with continuous service, as well as any negotiated market increases and state statutory raises.
Health, dental, vision, life insurance coverage, flexible spending accounts, EAP
Free telehealth and access to free employee medical clinics through our medical plan
Choice between two retirement plans with an employer contribution between 8.73% - 9.07% of your annual salary. A third optional 457(b) deferred compensation plan is also available.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness- Employment with the State of Montana may qualify you to receive loan forgiveness
Career progression, training opportunities and room for professional growth.
State employee discounts at various businesses across the state.
This position may be eligible for a statutory $1.00 an hour base pay increase effective on July 1, 2026.
This position may be covered by a Voluntary Employee Beneficiary Association (VEBA)