Director for Transitional Studies

Full Job Description

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Position Overview

The Director of Transitional Studies provides statewide leadership for Basic Education for Adults (BEdA) across Washington’s 34 community and technical colleges, advancing the mission of the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC) and its 2020-2030 Strategic Plan.

This position leads the Transitional Studies team within the Education Division to increase educational attainment, strengthen equitable access and outcomes, and expand pathways to economic mobility and family-sustaining employment.

The office administers federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Title II state grant funds (Basic and Integrated English Literacy and Civics Education, or IELCE), the Interagency Agreement with the Department of Corrections providing education services in state correctional facilities, and related state budget provisos.

Programs supported include English Language Acquisition (ELA), Adult Basic Education (ABE), High School+, GED preparation, Integrated Basic Education and Skills Training (I-BEST), and postsecondary certificate and degree programs offered in correctional settings.

Headquartered in Olympia, the Director ensures high-quality, equitable, and accountable BEdA services statewide through policy leadership, legislative coordination, fiscal oversight, performance management, and professional development.

Some Hybrid work can be negotiated. The position reports to the Deputy Executive Director of Education.

SBCTC Mission and Vision Statement

Leading with racial equity, our colleges maximize student potential and transform lives within a culture of belonging that advances racial, social, and economic justice in service to our diverse communities.

We challenge, empower and embolden ourselves and our colleges to deliver equitable higher education through anti racist policies that ensure economic vitality across Washington.

Our values are focused on racial equity and social justice, accountability, community and culture building, service, humor, collaboration and innovation.

Requirements

Strategic Leadership and Equity

• Lead the development and implementation of an equity-centered statewide vision for adult education aligned with the SBCTC Strategic Plan, prioritizing guided pathways and seamless transitions to apprenticeships, workforce training, and academic programs.
• Advance policies and practices that strengthen equitable access, participation, and attainment so all student populations, including English language learners and justice-impacted individuals, can meet statewide performance targets.

System Coordination and Advocacy

• Serve as the state's lead advocate and liaison for BEdA with state and federal agencies, legislators, community-based organizations, workforce and economic development partners, and national associations.
• Coordinate legislative strategy and policy development related to Transitional Studies.

Team and Organizational Leadership

• Lead and develop the Transitional Studies team, aligning staff work with agency priorities and fostering a collaborative, mission-driven culture focused on results and continuous improvement.

Accountability, Planning, and Performance

• Oversee development and implementation of the WIOA Title II portion of the state plan and related state workforce strategies (e.g., Talent and Prosperity for All).
• Oversee statewide competitive grant processes, including the WIOA Title II Request for Proposals (RFP).
• Monitor provider performance; analyze and report state and federal accountability data; negotiate performance targets; and promote data-informed continuous improvement across colleges and community partners.

Fiscal and Operational Oversight

• Direct allocation and oversight of state, federal, and grant funds supporting BEdA.
• Ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and reporting requirements.

Professional Development and System Capacity

• Lead statewide professional development to strengthen instructional quality, leadership capacity, and innovation in adult education.

Division Leadership

• Serve as a member of the Education Division leadership team, contributing to agency-wide strategy, cross-functional collaboration, and student success initiatives.
  

Qualifications

The successful candidate is a collaborative, equity-driven leader with strong communication, policy, and organizational skills.
Required:

• Master's degree or higher and five years of experience in instruction or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience in community or technical colleges or with adult learners, including BEdA populations.
• Demonstrated commitment to advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion.
• Experience with legislative processes and/or state or federal policy development.
• Experience designing and implementing strategies that improve outcomes for historically underserved populations.
• Proven ability to build partnerships, lead cross-functional teams, manage complex initiatives, and deliver results in a dynamic environment.
• Strong project management, fiscal oversight, and performance management skills.
  

Additional Information

HOW TO APPLYInterested candidates may apply by submitting the following items:

• Letter of formal application that addresses your interest in the position and ability to perform the responsibilities described in this announcement.
• Detailed résumé of all educational and professional experience that demonstrates how you meet the qualifications.
• List of at least three professional references with contact information. References are typically contacted after interviews.

Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history may be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competence to perform in the job.

Apply at https://www.sbctc.edu/about/jobs/