Early Learning Services Contracts Specialist / State Prog Admin Prin

Location: St. Paul
Telework eligible: Yes
Full-time, unlimited (permanent) position

About the role

This position provides principal-level leadership for the administration and evaluation of Early Learning Services (ELS) grants and professional/technical (PT) contracts within the Department of Children, Youth and Families. Under limited supervision, you will implement and continuously improve contracts that integrate multiple program activities to ensure efficient, compliant, and outcome-driven service delivery. The role exercises independent judgment in interpreting and applying complex federal and state laws, regulations, and policies, and initiating corrective actions in response to non-compliance or performance concerns.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys solving complex problems, improving public systems, and working at the intersection of contracts, finance, and public policy. You'll influence statewide early learning initiatives while ensuring public resources are managed responsibly and equitably.

Responsibilities

• Consolidate program and contract functions into cohesive administrative systems
• Ensure compliance with state and federal requirements, including directing corrective actions
• Advise executive leadership on fiscal strategy, contract policy, program performance, risks, and strategic improvements
• Represent the division with agency leadership, external partners, legislative and compliance staff
• Serve as Early Learning Services’ authority on contracts

Requirements

• Three (3) years of experience managing complex budgets and contracts, demonstrating:
  • Working knowledge of creating contracts and administrative budgets
  • Working knowledge of federal and state laws and regulations related to administering programs and funding to non-profits
  • Budget development, fiscal analysis, monitoring, or financial reporting
  • Variety of experiences working effectively with others from different backgrounds and cultures
• A bachelor’s degree in business and management or another related degree may substitute for 12 months of experience

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience administering federal grant programs
• Experience developing or improving business processes or contract administration systems
• Experience leading policy implementation or organizational change initiatives
• Experience using SWIFT, EGMS, SharePoint, or other financial or grants management systems
• Dedication to ensuring cultural responsiveness and experience working effectively with diverse backgrounds and cultures

Additional Requirements

The selected candidate must successfully complete a background investigation prior to employment, which may include:

• Reference check
• Criminal background check
• Personnel file review (for current and former public sector employees)

Additional assessment may be required during the interview process.

Pay

$32.97 - $48.60 / hourly
$68,841 - $101,476 / annually

Benefits

• Paid vacation and sick leave
• 12 paid holidays each year
• Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans
• Fertility care, including IVF
• Diabetes care
• Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children
• 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
• Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years)
• Employer-paid life insurance
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance
• Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care
• Resources that promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being
• Support to help you reach your career goals:
  • Training, classes, and professional development
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (some positions may qualify)
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support
• Daily Living/Convenience Services:
  • Chore services
  • Home repair
  • Trip planning
  • Child/elder care

Benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota.