Disability Innovation Fund Grant Program Assistant

Full Job Description

THIS POSITION IS OPEN TO COLORADO RESIDENTS ONLY

THIS ANNOUNCEMENT WILL REMAIN OPEN UNTIL 5:00 PM ON February 12^th, 2026

This position will have hybrid workplace options available but will still be required to report to the nearest DVR office at the discretion of the supervisor and according to business need

The Department of Labor and Employment keeps Colorado strong and competitive. We connect workers with great jobs and assist those who have been injured on the job.

We help people who are unemployed through no fault of their own by providing temporary wage replacement and we ensure fair labor practices.

We provide an up-to-date and accurate picture of the economy that helps in decision making.

And we protect the workplace – and Colorado communities – with a variety of consumer protection and safety programs.

This is a values-driven organization, committed to accountability, agility, collaboration, and respect.

We believe in outstanding customer service, an inclusive culture, continued process improvement and in our role as a trusted and strategic partner.

Recognizing that knowledgeable employees drive our success, we are seeking dedicated individuals who exhibit our shared values and our passion for quality and excellence in all we do.

In addition to rewarding and meaningful work, we offer excellent benefits:

• Strong, secure, yet flexible retirement benefits including a PERA Defined Benefit Plan or PERA Defined Contribution Plan plus 401(k) and 457 plans
• Medical and dental health plans
• Employer supplemented Health Savings Account
• Paid life insurance
• Short- and long-term disability coverage
• 11 paid holidays per year plus vacation and sick leave
• BenefitHub state employee discount program
• MotivateMe employee wellness program
• Excellent work-life programs, such as flexible schedules, training and more
• Access to participate in employer-supported employee affinity spaces
• RTD EcoPass Commuter Program
• Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information go to https://dhr.colorado.gov/dhr-resources/student-loan-forgiveness-programs

Our agency website: Colorado Department of Labor and Employment

CDLE has implemented a pilot program on March 1st, 2022 which will award Disability Hiring Preference Points similar to the Veterans’ Preference Points program.

During your application process you will be asked if you would like to be considered for either of these programs for additional points in the hiring process.

To learn more about Disability Hiring Preference and what will be required to participate, please visit our website: https://sites.google.com/state.co.us/disability-hiring-preference/home

PLEASE NOTE: With the beginning of this program, CDLE will no longer accept attachments of any kind with applications.

Please be as thorough as possible in documenting your education and work history in the application system.

Attachments will not be accepted or considered during any phase of the hiring process including minimum qualification screening, comparative analysis, or interviews.

Requirements

The salary range for this posting is:

This position is term-limited/grant-funded until September 30, 2028, the applicant selected for this position will be required to sign a waiver of retention rights.

The Program Assistant will have a vital role in supporting the Disability Innovation Fund (DIF) grant, a $14.1 million grant over a five-year period until September 2028.

This position is essential for helping implement the grant's initiatives, mainly aimed at empowering youth with disabilities in Colorado to achieve Competitive Integrated Employment.

Key responsibilities for the Program Assistant include providing essential support in the management of contracts associated with the Disability Innovation Fund grant, ensuring strict adherence to the standards and expectations outlined in the grant narrative and funder specifications.

Additionally, the Program Assistant will be responsible for assisting with the oversight of the grant's budget, maintaining compliance with financial guidelines and regulations set by the Rehabilitation Services

Administration (RSA), and contributing to the preparation and timely submission of all required monthly, quarterly, and annual reports.

The Program Assistant will actively engage with a diverse array of stakeholders, fostering collaboration with both internal and external partners.

This collaborative effort involves working closely with DVR staff, secondary education institutions, Centers for Independent Living (CILs), family-led organizations, contractors, and various community organizations.

These partnerships will be instrumental in aligning the grant's objectives with project implementation and interventions, thereby ensuring the successful realization of the grant's goals.

Additionally, the Program Assistant will assist in coordinating and participating in the Planning and Advisory Team meetings, actively contributing to the alignment of team activities and objectives with the overarching mission of the grant.

This role will play a vital part in enhancing vocational services for youth with disabilities, ultimately leading to competitive integrated employment opportunities, and upholding full compliance with all stipulations and regulations associated with the grant program.

DUTIES

Grant Administration and Compliance Support

The Program Assistant for the Disability Innovation Fund (DIF) grant will play an integral role in the comprehensive administration and oversight of grant compliance.

Working closely with the Grant Manager and Project Directors, this position will provide administrative support to ensure the efficient utilization of the grant's $14.1 million budget over the 5-year grant period.

The Program Assistant will actively participate in developing robust systems and reports for tracking timelines, deadlines, and all grant-related information. This includes creating organized and accessible documents and data to facilitate efficient grant management.

The Program Assistant will serve as a liaison between the DIF Grant team and CDLE's procurement, budget, and finance teams, fostering seamless communication and coordination to ensure that all grant activities adhere to compliance requirements.

The Program Assistant will actively participate in the implementation of budget plans, optimizing the use of funds to support the primary goal of the grant—empowering youth with disabilities in Colorado in their pursuit of Competitive Integrated Employment.

This includes creating and maintaining systems for tracking the budget and proactively communicating with the Grant Manager and Project Directors regarding budgetary progress.

Contract Execution and Monitoring Support

The Program Assistant for the Disability Innovation Fund (DIF) grant will provide essential support in the oversight and administration of contracts related to the grant, collaborating closely with the Grant Manager.

The Program Assistant will support the Grant Manager by assisting in the execution of contracts with service providers, consultants, and partners.

This includes facilitating the finalization of the scope of work, timelines, and costs to ensure alignment with the grant's budget and objectives, while ensuring the terms serve the mutual interests of all parties involved.

Once contracts are in place, the Program Assistant will actively participate in monitoring the progress of contracted work.

This includes verifying that services or products are delivered as specified and assisting in the oversight of financial aspects.

The Program Assistant will also serve as a point of contact for contractor queries and concerns.

In situations involving disputes, delays, or other contract-related issues, the Program Assistant will gather information, document the details, and collaborate with the Grant

Manager for resolution. The Program Assistant will also play a key role in developing effective tracking systems to support the Grant Manager in monitoring contract timelines, deliverables, and compliance with contractual obligations.

Additionally, the Program Assistant will ensure timely payment of invoices upon approval from the Grant Manager, efficiently managing financial transactions related to contracts in accordance with grant and state procurement requirements.

Stakeholder Collaboration and Coordination Support

The Program Assistant for the Disability Innovation Fund (DIF) grant will provide essential administrative support in fostering stakeholder engagement and collaboration. This role will focus on logistical and administrative aspects of stakeholder engagement.

The Program Assistant will facilitate communication with stakeholders, including DVR staff, representatives from secondary education, Centers for Independent Living (CILs), family-led organizations, other community partners, and Minority and underserved populations.

They will assist in coordinating meetings, ensuring that these meetings are well-organized and that reasonable accommodations, such as language access, are provided as needed.

Additionally, the Program Assistant will play a crucial role in documenting stakeholder meetings, summarizing key discussions, decisions, and action items, and preparing reports that provide a comprehensive record of stakeholder engagement activities.

Data Management and Reporting Support

The Program Assistant for the Disability Innovation Fund (DIF) grant will provide essential support in data management and reporting.

The Program Assistant will play a key role in organizing and formatting data for reports, ensuring that the information is presented in a clear and comprehensible manner.

They will be responsible for accurately inputting data, maintaining the integrity of the reports that communicate the grant's progress, financial health, and alignment with objectives.

The Program Assistant will actively participate in coordinating the collection of data from the project evaluator.

The Program Assistant's role includes ensuring that data is collected and provided by the evaluator in a timely and organized manner.

They will assist in facilitating the communication between the evaluator and the Grant Manager to ensure data availability for reporting and analysis.

Additionally, the Program Assistant will contribute to the continuous improvement process by gathering and organizing stakeholder feedback and insights.

The Program Assistant's role includes assisting in collecting feedback from various stakeholders, including participants from minority and underserved communities and team members.

This feedback is invaluable in identifying opportunities for enhancement and ensuring that grant activities remain responsive to the changing dynamics in vocational rehabilitation and education sectors.

Qualifications

RESIDENCY REQUIREMENT

You must be a resident of the state of Colorado in order to be eligible to apply

Class Code & Classification Description:

H8A2XX - Program Assistant II

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Experience Only:

Five (5) years of professional experience in an occupational field related to the work assigned to the position
OR
Education and Experience:

A combination of related education and/or relevant experience in an occupation related to the work assigned equal to five (5) years

Preferred Qualifications:

• Familiarity with CORE, the State's financial management system
• Familiarity with the administrative components of the state procurement process
• Bilingual (read, write, speak)
• Grant Administration Procedures: Understanding of grant administration processes, particularly related to execution, monitoring, and compliance with federal reporting requirements.
• Regulations and Compliance: Familiarity with regulations governing federal discretionary grants funded through the Rehabilitation Services Administration and the ability to ensure adherence.
• Contract Assistance: Capability to assist in various aspects of contract management, such as tracking and communication with contractors.
• Familiarity with accessibility standards
• Performing duties similar to those assigned to the position as a classified State of Colorado employee.

Required Competencies:

• Documentation Management: Proficiency in maintaining organized and accessible records, documents, and data relevant to grant activities.

Multi-Cultural Sensitivity: Awareness and adaptation of communication to build alliances with people from different disability groups, cultural and linguistic backgrounds.

This knowledge is crucial in ensuring that the grant’s programs and services are inclusive, equitable, and effectively address the varied needs of a diverse population.

• Financial Oversight: Skill in supporting budget management, including tracking expenses and ensuring financial compliance in collaboration with the Grant Manager and Project Directors.
• Reporting and Data Management: Ability to assist in preparing, organizing, and submitting comprehensive reports and data, working closely with the Grant Manager and Project Directors.
• Project Support: Proficiency in providing administrative support to help coordinate and manage grant projects, ensuring smooth operations.
• Administrative Communication: Effective written and verbal communication skills for administrative coordination and correspondence.
• Problem Identification: Ability to assist in identifying administrative challenges and suggesting solutions, contributing to efficient processes.
• Organizational Adaptability: Flexibility to adapt to changes and shifting priorities within the grant's administrative framework, supporting the Grant Manager and Project Directors in adjusting strategies.
• Time Management: Effective time management skills to assist in prioritizing tasks, meeting deadlines, and ensuring administrative efficiency.
• Attention to Detail: Meticulous attention to detail in administrative tasks to maintain accuracy and compliance.
• Multitasking Support: Ability to support the Grant Manager by efficiently handling multiple administrative responsibilities simultaneously.

Software Utilization: Demonstrates intermediate to advanced proficiency in effectively utilizing a range of software applications, including Google Workspace apps such as Docs, Sheets and Slides, virtual meeting platforms such as Zoom and Google Meet.

Possesses the ability to quickly learn and adapt to new software systems as required, ensuring efficient and seamless integration into various work processes and tasks.

• Collaborative Teamwork: Aptitude for collaborative teamwork within the grant management team.
• Stakeholder Engagement Support: Skill in assisting with building and maintaining positive relationships with diverse stakeholders, contributing to effective administrative collaboration.
• Initiative and Proactive Support: Demonstrated proactive approach in supporting administrative duties.
• Administrative Efficiency: Dedication to providing strong administrative support that enhances the efficiency and success of the project.

Conditions of Employment:

• This position is open only to residents of the state of Colorado; you must reside in-state at the time of application in order to be eligible to proceed in the recruitment
• This position is term-limited/grant-funded until September 30, 2028, the applicant selected for this position will be required to sign a waiver of retention rights
• Must pass a thorough background check prior to employment, which will include E-verify
• Position may be required to report to nearest DVR office at the discretion of the supervisor and according to business needs
• Statewide travel is required at the discretion of the supervisor; anticipated travel is around twice per year

Appeal Rights:

An applicant who has been removed from an employment list or removed from consideration during the selection process may request a review by the State Personnel Director.

As an applicant directly affected by the results of the selection or comparative analysis process, you may file a written appeal with the State Personnel Director.

Review of the completed, signed and submitted appeal will be timely on the basis of written material submitted by you, using the official appeal form signed by you or your representative.

This form must be completed and delivered to the State Personnel Board by email at dpa_state.personnelboard@state.co.us within ten (10) calendar days from your receipt of notice or acknowledgement of the Department’s action.

For further information on the Board Rules, you can refer to 4 Colorado Code of Regulations (CCR) 801-1, State Personnel Board Rules and Personnel Director's Administrative Procedures, Chapter 8, Resolution of Appeals and Disputes, at spb.colorado.gov/board-rules.

Additional Information

For questions regarding this recruitment, please contact: david.stevenson@state.co.us

Minimum Qualification Screening

A Human Resources Analyst will only review the work experience/job duties sections of the online job application to determine whether you meet the minimum qualifications for the position for which you are applying.

Cover letters and resumes WILL NOT be accepted in lieu of the official State of Colorado online application, CDLE does not accept attachments of any kind during the application process.

Part-time work experience will be prorated.

Applicants must meet the minimum qualifications to continue in the selection process for this position. Work experience and qualifications must be specifically documented on your online application.

Do not use "see resume" or "see attached" statements on your application. CDLE does not accept attachments of any kind during the application process.

SAVE THE DATE:
This recruitment will include an online skills test measuring basic customer service and technology competencies. This test is currently scheduled for February 17th, 2026 through February 24th, 2026 (expiring at 11:59 PM). These dates may change based on the needs of the recruitment.

Comparative Analysis Process – Structured Application Review

After minimum qualification screening, the comparative analysis process for this position will involve a review and rating of all the information you submit with your application materials.

Therefore, it is extremely important to document in the work experience/job duties portion of your online application the extent to which you possess the education, experience, minimum qualifications, and preferred qualifications as outlined in the job announcement.

It is also important to thoroughly answer all supplemental questions (if listed) as your answers to these questions will be evaluated during this phase.

Supplemental Questions

Answer the supplemental questions on the application completely and thoughtfully. Your answers may be rated based on your writing ability (spelling, grammar, and clarity of your writing) as well as the content of your answer.

THIS ANNOUNCEMENT MAY BE USED TO FILL MULTIPLE AND/OR FUTURE VACANCIES

The State of Colorado believes that equity, diversity, and inclusion drive our success, and we encourage candidates from all identities, backgrounds, and abilities to apply.

The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them.

Therefore, in all aspects of the employment process, we provide employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, medical condition related to pregnancy, creed, ancestry, national origin, marital status, genetic information, or military status (with preference given to military veterans), or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law.

The State of Colorado strives to create a Colorado for All by building and maintaining workplaces that value and respect all Coloradans through a commitment to equal opportunity and hiring based on merit and fitness.

The State is resolute in non-discriminatory practices in everything we do, including hiring, employment, and advancement opportunities.

The Colorado Department of Labor and Employment is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals.

As part of this commitment, our agency will assist individuals who have a disability with any reasonable accommodation requests related to employment, including completing the application process, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, participating in the employee selection process, and/or to perform essential job functions where the requested accommodation does not impose an undue hardship.

If you have a disability and require reasonable accommodation to ensure you have a positive experience applying or interviewing for this position, please direct your inquiries to our ADAAA Coordinator, Sean Montoya, at sean.montoya@state.co.us.

Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. For all other inquiries about this recruitment effort, please call 303-318-8200.

While a salary range is posted for this position, an eventual salary offer is determined by a comprehensive salary analysis, which considers multiple factors including but not limited to education and experience compared to others in the organization doing substantially similar work.