Program Specialist - Children's Justice (SCA D6-D7-D8 111125)

Full Job Description

The Iowa Judicial Branch, Children’s Justice in State Court Administration, is seeking applicants for a Program Specialist to implement juvenile court and child welfare initiatives in Eastern, and Southeastern Iowa, which includes Districts 6, 7, and 8.

This position will implement regional partnership grants, coordinate clinic activities, and facilitate stakeholder communication.

The Program Specialist will complete evaluation efforts, data collection, and reporting for quality improvement efforts.

This position includes providing regional training related to the Bench Cards, staying informed on behavioral health system changes impacting children and families, and promoting compliance with the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA).

This position will provide technical assistance to Family Treatment Court and Infusion Courts and serve as a subject matter expert on best practices, conducting court and staffing observations, and participating in steering committees.

This position will conduct evaluations and observations for Child in Need of Assistance cases and partner with local agencies and higher education.

The Program Specialist will implement, analyze, develop, and provide training for grants and specialty projects such as Youth Transition Plans and youth reporting to the court, integrating Youth/Peer Advocates, maintaining the Juvenile Court Bench Book, supporting the Appeals Project, and the Parent/Youth Handbook.

The successful candidate will have strong verbal and written communication skills, as well as the ability to maintain confidential and sensitive information. This person will have sharp attention to detail and strong organizational and time management skills. Travel will be required.

What’s in it for you:

• Collaborative, positive professional work environment
• Opportunities to make a widespread difference in the Iowa communities
• Excellent benefits package
• Paid Holidays/Vacation/Sick Leave
• Iowa Public Employees’ Retirement System (IPERS) plan
• Employee discount program
• Employment with the Iowa Judicial Branch may qualify for the federal student loan repayment program

The pay range for this position is $48,110.40 - $76,065.60 annually. This is a FLSA-exempt position. The starting salary for new state employees is expected to be at the base of the pay range. Adjustments may be made if the successful candidate has relevant experience.

Position classification is determined as the ‘best fit’ of the duties assigned to and performed by a position. This position is classified as a Program Specialistas summarized below.

Summary

Perform program planning and implementation in an established program to effectively meet the program’s goals and objectives.

Examples of Duties and Responsibilities

• Perform administrative, operational, and outreach activities based on the program goals.
• Coordinate related planning actions and activities to support program goals and objectives within established policies, plans, updates, or budgets.
• Schedule program work, oversee daily activities, and set priorities for managing the program.
• Implement program compliance measures and quality assurance, including tracking and reporting as required, to ensure program goals are met.
• Conduct studies and reports on specific program metrics to guide program services.
• Prepare financial statements and maintain records of program activities.
• Prepare or assist in the preparation of grant request and program funding.
• Provide training and instructions as required to support the program goals.
• Other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Organizational skills and the ability to schedule and manage tasks effectively.
• Ability to coordinate activities and events.
• Ability to work within prescribed budget parameters.
• Written and verbal communication skills.
• Reliable transportation and the ability to travel.

Additional Information

This is a full-time, grant-funded position, and employment is contingent upon the continued availability of grant funds.

The Iowa Judicial Branch is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. Applicants may review the Equal Employment Opportunity Utilization Report from the Iowa Judicial Branch website as part of our commitment to transparency and compliance with federal and state regulations.

This is a non-merit position with the Iowa Judicial Branch. Candidates must follow the instructions in the “To Apply” section.

Positions in this class are exempt from the screening and referral requirements of the Iowa Department of Administrative Services – Human Resources Enterprise.

Qualifications

The incumbent must meet the minimum requirements to qualify for the position.

1. High school diploma (or high school equivalency diploma).
2. Two (2) years’ experience in the administration, operation, or execution of a program or related experience.

Experience may be substituted with related education on the basis that successful completion of thirty (30) semester hours or academic equivalent equals one year of experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in social work or a related human services field.
• Experience in child welfare, mental health, healthcare, family services, or court/legal systems.
• Experience with project implementation and coordination.
• Experience with Microsoft 365 and online meeting programs.