WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM OFFICER, DOWNTOWN, OAHU

Full-time position located in Downtown, Honolulu, Oahu.

Salary: $9,812 to $15,711 monthly (EM-05). Hiring rates will be based on availability of funds, applicant's qualifications, and other relevant factors.

About the Role

Plan, organize, direct, coordinate, and control the activities of program specialists engaged in planning, developing, and evaluating workforce development services, and employment and training programs.

Responsibilities

• Plan and develop program goals and objectives within the framework of federal guidelines and based on the needs of local offices, applicants, employers, counties, State and local workforce boards, and the community.
• Clarify and interpret laws, rules, regulations, policies, procedures, and new program initiatives to ensure uniform understanding and application.
• Direct and assist staff supervisors in planning and organizing staffing patterns to meet program needs; ensure production requirements and critical time schedules are met.
• Review and evaluate the overall functions and activities of the office for effectiveness; develop and implement corrective action plans.
• Analyze economic and occupational data; coordinate the planning and development of federal and State program plans and budgets; recommend program plans, budgets, and allocation of resources.
• Develop organizational plans and operating procedures for implementation within the division.
• Review and analyze State and federal workforce development and related legislation; prepare legislative testimony and/or comments.
• Review and approve operational policies, procedures, and guidelines for programs developed by subordinates; provide guidance in resolution of complex issues in program implementation.
• Direct and assist project directors of subgrantee organizations (e.g., counties, occupational organizations, educational institutions, private or public agencies) in developing program plans and operating procedures; provide training and technical assistance.
• Coordinate subgrantee efforts in each county to minimize duplication and increase utilization of available resources.
• Conduct regular meetings with project directors to provide program direction; review operational reports to identify deficiencies and formulate improvement plans.
• Conduct and/or participate in advisory council meetings to obtain recommendations on program plans and improve service delivery.
• Plan and/or participate in public information programs to stimulate interest and gain public cooperation for workforce development programs.
• Develop and maintain effective working relationships with business officials, unions, training institutions, and other public/private organizations.
• Participate in senior supervisory staff meetings to coordinate activities and develop statewide strategies, policies, and procedures.
• Conduct meetings with county mayors, State department directors, U.S. Department of Labor representatives, and other stakeholders to resolve workforce development problems.
• Plan, direct, and/or participate in training programs for agency personnel or foreign officials on workforce programs.
• Determine training needs and provide opportunities for staff development.
• Take appropriate action on personnel matters, including disciplinary actions and grievances.

Requirements

The State of Hawaii requires all persons seeking employment to be citizens, nationals, or permanent resident aliens of the United States, or eligible under federal law for unrestricted employment.

Qualifications

• Basic Education Requirement: Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a bachelor’s degree. Excess work experience or other responsible administrative, professional, or analytical experience may substitute on a year-for-year basis.
• Specialized Experience: Five and one-half (5½) years of progressively responsible professional experience in employment services and/or training programs, including:
  • Gathering and analyzing employment data.
  • Identifying and assessing employment needs.
  • Interpreting and applying federal laws, rules, and regulations.
  • Developing or implementing budget requirements.
  • Identifying problems and recommending solutions.
• Of the required 5½ years, two (2) years must have been in a supervisory or staff capacity:
  • Supervisory Experience: Planning, directing, assigning, reviewing work, advising on problem areas, scheduling, training, and disciplining staff.
  • Staff Experience: Conducting studies, making recommendations for program development, providing technical advice, monitoring and evaluating programs, and recommending staffing or training needs.
• At least one (1) year of experience must have been comparable to the Employment Service Specialist VI, or two (2) years comparable to the Employment Service Specialist V, in the State service.
• Administrative Aptitude: Demonstrated through success in assignments involving planning, organizing, promoting, and directing programs, including policy and budgetary considerations.

Skills

• Knowledge of federal and State laws, rules, and regulations pertaining to employment services and training programs.
• Understanding of labor market conditions, employment trends, and industrial conditions.
• Proficiency in program planning, evaluation, and budget preparation.
• Strong research, report writing, and public relations skills.
• Ability to plan, organize, direct, and coordinate workforce development programs.
• Ability to interpret and apply program standards to specific employment needs.
• Ability to analyze and evaluate plans and take corrective action.
• Ability to develop comprehensive written reports and speak effectively.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to supervise the work of others.