OKNG State Benefits Program Manager

State of Oklahoma • Oklahoma City, OK

2d • $70,000 • Onsite

About The Position

This position functions as the State Benefits Manager for the Oklahoma National Guard, responsible for managing, coordinating, and directing state-level educational and retention incentive programs. The role includes the direct supervision of 1-2 employees, with potential for expansion, and involves providing staff services in various management areas.

Requirements

• A bachelor's degree and four (4) years of professional experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience, substituting one year of professional level experience for each year of the required education.
• Knowledge of the methods of organization and management.
• Knowledge of public administration.
• Knowledge of agency policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of grant or contract program requirements.
• Knowledge of the legislative process.
• Knowledge of basic research and statistical techniques.
• Knowledge of federal and state laws and regulations relating to administration of assigned programs.
• Knowledge of supervisory principles and practices.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to establish and develop training programs.
• Ability to exercise good judgment in analyzing situations and making decisions.
• Ability to organize and present facts and opinions.
• Able to work at a computer for long periods of time.
• Able lift/carry a minimum of 40 pounds.
• Contingent on a favorable NCIC/OSBI background check.
• Contingent on passing pre-employment drug & alcohol screening.
• T1 Security Clearance (eligibility for national security positions shall be granted only to persons who are U.S. citizens).
• Must maintain a valid Oklahoma driver’s license.
• Serves a 12-month probationary period.
• Participation in direct deposit is mandatory.

Nice To Haves

• The essential functions may expand to include responsibility for oversight of the Oklahoma National Guard Supplemental Retention Pay.

Responsibilities

• Plans, organizes, and directs the activities of the Oklahoma National Guard’s (OKNG) participation in the Education Assistance Program and Career Tech Assistance Program, ensuring the organization upholds its legal and regulatory requirements.
• Develops goals, objectives, policies, and procedures that align with the organization's mission and human resources objectives, based on interpretations of relevant state and federal laws (including Title 44 and Title 70 of Oklahoma Statutes).
• Manages the process for service members to transfer state education benefits to dependents (TEB), ensuring compliance with eligibility, service, and application requirements as defined in state law.
• Develops and institutes criteria for applicant hiring and background screening processes.
• Identifies, analyzes and provides recommendations to supervisor on significant issues and problems related to work accomplishment.
• Functions as the principal liaison with the Oklahoma Army and Air National Guard (OKNG) and participating public and private educational institutions and agencies.
• Creates and manages program marketing campaign to inform service members and dependents about state benefit programs.
• Develops and sustains professional partnerships with Oklahoma Department of Higher Education and Oklahoma Department of Career Tech.
• Conducts briefings for OKNG leadership, state leaders, and subordinate units on program details, changes in law or policy, and other relevant issues.
• Provides technical and administrative guidance over Military Human Resource assistants, Military Human Resources Specialists, and any other military personnel specialists.
• Plans and schedules work of subordinates based on organization priorities.
• Responds to official inquiries (i.e. Inspector General, congressional inquiries, etc.).

Benefits

• This is a full-time state position that provides a percentage of matching contributions to employees’ retirement plans, 11 holidays, and a minimum of 15 days of annual and sick leave per year.
• The state also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a benefit allowance to offset the cost of insurance premiums for employees and their eligible dependents.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager