Senior Environmental Innovation Program & Operations Manager
About The Position
The Senior Environmental Innovation and Operations Manager provides strategic leadership and day-to-day oversight of department-wide operations, administrative services and innovation initiatives within the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). Based in the Administration and Innovation Division, this role ensures that operational functions, business processes, and digital services align with agency priorities, meet regulatory requirements, and continuously improve to support effective program delivery. The position manages a diverse portfolio that includes operational strategy and implementation (human resources, fleet management, facilities management, etc.), administrative coordination, digital systems and platforms, process improvement, and public-facing services. It also oversees key cross-cutting efforts such as onboarding, communications systems, business intelligence, quality management, and technology adoption. Serving as a central liaison across divisions, with Agency of Digital Services partners, and with external agencies, the Innovation and Operations Manager strengthens collaboration, advances system modernization, and enhances organizational effectiveness. The role also supervises professional and technical staff, setting priorities, supporting performance and development, and fostering a cohesive, service-oriented team environment.
Requirements
- Master's degree or higher in hydrogeology, chemistry, soil science, engineering, environmental studies, law, or public administration AND four (4) years or more at a professional level in an environmental management or regulatory program in a supervisory or administrative capacity.
- OR
- Bachelor's degree in engineering, a physical or biological science or other field closely related to environmental conservation AND eight (8) years or more at a professional level in an environmental management or regulatory program INCLUDING four (4) years or more in a supervisory or administrative capacity.
Nice To Haves
- A Certified Project Manager (e.g., PMP or equivalent certification) is preferred for this position.
Responsibilities
- Provides strategic leadership and day-to-day oversight of department-wide operations, administrative services and innovation initiatives.
- Ensures operational functions, business processes, and digital services align with agency priorities, meet regulatory requirements, and continuously improve.
- Manages operational strategy and implementation (human resources, fleet management, facilities management, etc.), administrative coordination, digital systems and platforms, process improvement, and public-facing services.
- Oversees key cross-cutting efforts such as onboarding, communications systems, business intelligence, quality management, and technology adoption.
- Serves as a central liaison across divisions, with Agency of Digital Services partners, and with external agencies.
- Strengthens collaboration, advances system modernization, and enhances organizational effectiveness.
- Supervises professional and technical staff, setting priorities, supporting performance and development, and fostering a cohesive, service-oriented team environment.
Benefits
- 80% State paid medical premium and a dental plan at no cost for employees and their families
- 11 paid holidays each year and a generous leave plan
- State Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FMLI)
- State defined benefit pension plan
- Deferred compensation 457(b) plan
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Flexible spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts
- Low cost group life insurance
- Incentive-based Wellness Program
- Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
