The Department of Development Services (DDS) is seeking a Workforce Development Program Manager who will play a pivotal role in developing and managing workforce programs for DDS and its provider agencies. As a key member of the Learning and Development Unit, the Workforce Development Program Manager will provide coordination, administrative, and logistical support for existing programs such as the Direct Support Professional Certificate collaboration with Massachusetts Community Colleges and Urban Youth Summer Internships Program while also leading the expansion of partnerships with universities and colleges. In this role, the manager will work closely with DDS leadership to identify opportunities to develop new programs that position DDS as an employer of choice, offering clear career ladders, comprehensive training opportunities, and a supportive working environment.
The Workforce Development Program Manager will work collaboratively with human resources to ensure programs align with the DEIA goals, creating pathways that support and advance staff from all backgrounds. Success in this position will depend on the manager's ability to think strategically, engage stakeholders, and develop initiatives that not only stabilize the workforce but also foster learning and long-term employee commitment and growth.
This dynamic position is perfect for a visionary leader eager to shape the future of workforce development. Working closely with statewide expert groups, regional work groups, state agencies, and provider agencies the position will create, and market innovative programs designed to attract a diverse talent pool, retain exceptional staff, and advance professional development.
The Workforce Development Program Manager will have the opportunity to:
Lead and expand meaningful workforce programs that directly impact our mission.Build partnerships with universities and community colleges to create career pathways.Develop innovative initiatives that support retention, diversity, and professional development.Collaborate with dedicated DDS teams and statewide networks to make a lasting impact.Duties and Responsibilities (these are a general summary and not all-inclusive):
Oversight, including the management, promotion, and expansion, of existing DDS workforce recruitment and retention programs, Direct Support Certificate Program, College Internship Program, Urban Youth Collaborative Program, andMentoring ProgramEstablish new programs Workforce/ Placement Programs / National Job Shadow DayParticipate in the creation of programmatic documents, and strategic planning and create reports as requested.Ensure that collaborative problem-solving and decision-making processes are utilized to maximize the effectiveness ofprogram initiatives.Work with senior staff to analyze data to determine annual and long-term operational needs to ensure future staffingneeds are planned and metServe as a technical advisor to various departmental and interagency task forces or programs.Lead day-to-day communication to coordinate external workforce development programs, such as those concerning programs with community colleges and universities, high schools, Workforce Investment Boards, Internship Programs,Direct Support Certificate ProgramCoordinate and implement programmatic changes to improve existing internal programs such as Urban Youth, MentoringProgramDraft RFRs/MOUs and coordinate procurement of new programs for staffDevelopment, and deployment of marketing strategies for workforce programsIdentify, develop, and maintain workforce development partnerships and networksRecommend expansion or creation of new programs with community and state collegesDesign and implementation of new programsRecommend best practice initiatives for staff retention and developmentIf you’re ready to take on a dynamic role where your ideas and leadership will shape the future of workforce development, we invite you to apply. Join us at DDS to make a difference – not just in our workforce, but in the lives of those we serve every day.
Preferred Qualifications:
Ability to understand both written and unwritten workplace rules and behaviors that make for continuous employment and career advancementKnowledge of adult training and development theory and practiceKnowledge of program development processesKnowledge of business improvement theory and practiceAbility to read, understand, and interpret complex rules and regulationsAbility to listen and understand the positions of others and recognize a range of reasonable viewsAbility to analyze policy and incorporate policy into workforce development programs Ability to identify barriers/challenges within the system and implement process improvementsAbility to facilitate and support team-building activitiesAbility to set priorities and identify and implement strategiesAbility to anticipate problem situations and take appropriate actionsAbility to work with state and local officials and interested partiesAbility to properly assess the impact of outside forcesAbility to work independently and collaboratively within and outside the agencyAbility to communicate effectively in both writing and oral presentationSkilled in problem-solving, consensus building, conflict resolution, and team buildingAbout the Department of Developmental Services:
The mission of the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is to create innovative and genuine opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to participate fully and contribute meaningfully to their communities as valued members. DDS serves over 41,000 vulnerable individuals throughout their lifetimes, providing a spectrum day, employment, and residential supports. The agency directly oversees and manages over $3.2 billion in public funds and approximately 5,500 staff, the largest state employee workforce of any agency in the Massachusetts executive branch of government.
For more information about our agency and programs visit: www.mass.gov/dds
Pre-Hire Process:
Recommended candidates must successfully complete pre-employment screening which includes:
Disabled Persons Protection Commission (DPPC) Abuse Registry Search:https://www.mass.gov/info-details/dppc-abuser-registry
Criminal background check (CORI) by regulations set forth by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services.http://www.mass.gov/hhs/cori
National Background Checks, Chapter 234 of the Acts of 2014, conduct fingerprint-based check.https://www.mass.gov/lists/dds-fingerprint-background-checks
If you require assistance with the application/interview process and would like to request an ADA accommodation, please click on the link and complete theReasonable Accommodation Online Request Form
Please upload a cover letter and resume for this requisition.
For technical help with MassCareers, including logging into your profile and/or resetting your password, please call the Employee Service Center at617-979-8500 for assistance.
Forquestionsregarding this requisition, please contact the Executive Office of Health and Human Services Human Resources at 1-800- 510-4122 Ext. #4.
The Department of Development Services (DDS) is seeking a Workforce Development Program Manager who will play a pivotal role in developing and managing workforce programs for DDS and its provider agencies. As a key member of the Learning and Development Unit, the Workforce Development Program Manager will provide coordination, administrative, and logistical support for existing programs such as the Direct Support Professional Certificate collaboration with Massachusetts Community Colleges and Urban Youth Summer Internships Program while also leading the expansion of partnerships with universities and colleges. In this role, the manager will work closely with DDS leadership to identify opportunities to develop new programs that position DDS as an employer of choice, offering clear career ladders, comprehensive training opportunities, and a supportive working environment.
The Workforce Development Program Manager will work collaboratively with human resources to ensure programs align with the DEIA goals, creating pathways that support and advance staff from all backgrounds. Success in this position will depend on the manager's ability to think strategically, engage stakeholders, and develop initiatives that not only stabilize the workforce but also foster learning and long-term employee commitment and growth.
This dynamic position is perfect for a visionary leader eager to shape the future of workforce development. Working closely with statewide expert groups, regional work groups, state agencies, and provider agencies the position will create, and market innovative programs designed to attract a diverse talent pool, retain exceptional staff, and advance professional development.
The Workforce Development Program Manager will have the opportunity to:
Lead and expand meaningful workforce programs that directly impact our mission.Build partnerships with universities and community colleges to create career pathways.Develop innovative initiatives that support retention, diversity, and professional development.Collaborate with dedicated DDS teams and statewide networks to make a lasting impact.Duties and Responsibilities (these are a general summary and not all-inclusive):
Oversight, including the management, promotion, and expansion, of existing DDS workforce recruitment and retention programs, Direct Support Certificate Program, College Internship Program, Urban Youth Collaborative Program, andMentoring ProgramEstablish new programs Workforce/ Placement Programs / National Job Shadow DayParticipate in the creation of programmatic documents, and strategic planning and create reports as requested.Ensure that collaborative problem-solving and decision-making processes are utilized to maximize the effectiveness ofprogram initiatives.Work with senior staff to analyze data to determine annual and long-term operational needs to ensure future staffingneeds are planned and metServe as a technical advisor to various departmental and interagency task forces or programs.Lead day-to-day communication to coordinate external workforce development programs, such as those concerning programs with community colleges and universities, high schools, Workforce Investment Boards, Internship Programs,Direct Support Certificate ProgramCoordinate and implement programmatic changes to improve existing internal programs such as Urban Youth, MentoringProgramDraft RFRs/MOUs and coordinate procurement of new programs for staffDevelopment, and deployment of marketing strategies for workforce programsIdentify, develop, and maintain workforce development partnerships and networksRecommend expansion or creation of new programs with community and state collegesDesign and implementation of new programsRecommend best practice initiatives for staff retention and developmentIf you’re ready to take on a dynamic role where your ideas and leadership will shape the future of workforce development, we invite you to apply. Join us at DDS to make a difference – not just in our workforce, but in the lives of those we serve every day.
Preferred Qualifications:
Ability to understand both written and unwritten workplace rules and behaviors that make for continuous employment and career advancementKnowledge of adult training and development theory and practiceKnowledge of program development processesKnowledge of business improvement theory and practiceAbility to read, understand, and interpret complex rules and regulationsAbility to listen and understand the positions of others and recognize a range of reasonable viewsAbility to analyze policy and incorporate policy into workforce development programs Ability to identify barriers/challenges within the system and implement process improvementsAbility to facilitate and support team-building activitiesAbility to set priorities and identify and implement strategiesAbility to anticipate problem situations and take appropriate actionsAbility to work with state and local officials and interested partiesAbility to properly assess the impact of outside forcesAbility to work independently and collaboratively within and outside the agencyAbility to communicate effectively in both writing and oral presentationSkilled in problem-solving, consensus building, conflict resolution, and team buildingAbout the Department of Developmental Services:
The mission of the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is to create innovative and genuine opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to participate fully and contribute meaningfully to their communities as valued members. DDS serves over 41,000 vulnerable individuals throughout their lifetimes, providing a spectrum day, employment, and residential supports. The agency directly oversees and manages over $3.2 billion in public funds and approximately 5,500 staff, the largest state employee workforce of any agency in the Massachusetts executive branch of government.
For more information about our agency and programs visit: www.mass.gov/dds
Pre-Hire Process:
Recommended candidates must successfully complete pre-employment screening which includes:
Disabled Persons Protection Commission (DPPC) Abuse Registry Search:https://www.mass.gov/info-details/dppc-abuser-registry
Criminal background check (CORI) by regulations set forth by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services.http://www.mass.gov/hhs/cori
National Background Checks, Chapter 234 of the Acts of 2014, conduct fingerprint-based check.https://www.mass.gov/lists/dds-fingerprint-background-checks
If you require assistance with the application/interview process and would like to request an ADA accommodation, please click on the link and complete theReasonable Accommodation Online Request Form
Please upload a cover letter and resume for this requisition.
For technical help with MassCareers, including logging into your profile and/or resetting your password, please call the Employee Service Center at617-979-8500 for assistance.
Forquestionsregarding this requisition, please contact the Executive Office of Health and Human Services Human Resources at 1-800- 510-4122 Ext. #4.
MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS:
Applicants must have at least (A) five (5) years of full-time or, equivalent part-time, professional, professional internship, administrative, supervisory, or managerial experience in business administration, business management, public administration, public management, clinical administration or clinical management or (B) any equivalent combination of the required experience and substitutions below.
Substitutions:
I. A certificate in a relevant or related field may be substituted for one (1) year of the required experience.
II. A Bachelor's degree in a related field may be substituted for two (2) years of the required experience.
III. A Graduate degree in a related field may be substituted for three (3) years of the required experience.
IV. A Doctorate degree in a related field may be substituted for four (4) years of the required experience.
Salary placement is determined by a combination of factors, including the candidate’s years of directly related experience and education, and alignment with our internal compensation structure as set forth by the Human Resources Division’s Hiring Guidelines. For all bargaining unit positions (non-management), compensation is subject to the salary provisions outlined in the applicable collective bargaining agreement and will apply to placement within the appropriate salary range.
Comprehensive Benefits
When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.
Want the specifics?Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards
An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer.Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC)may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.
MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS:
Applicants must have at least (A) five (5) years of full-time or, equivalent part-time, professional, professional internship, administrative, supervisory, or managerial experience in business administration, business management, public administration, public management, clinical administration or clinical management or (B) any equivalent combination of the required experience and substitutions below.
Substitutions:
I. A certificate in a relevant or related field may be substituted for one (1) year of the required experience.
II. A Bachelor's degree in a related field may be substituted for two (2) years of the required experience.
III. A Graduate degree in a related field may be substituted for three (3) years of the required experience.
IV. A Doctorate degree in a related field may be substituted for four (4) years of the required experience.
Salary placement is determined by a combination of factors, including the candidate’s years of directly related experience and education, and alignment with our internal compensation structure as set forth by the Human Resources Division’s Hiring Guidelines. For all bargaining unit positions (non-management), compensation is subject to the salary provisions outlined in the applicable collective bargaining agreement and will apply to placement within the appropriate salary range.
Comprehensive Benefits
When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.
Want the specifics?Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards
An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer.Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC)may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.