Labor Program Specialist - PFML Program Specialist - Agency Only

Labor Program Specialist - PFML Program Specialist - Agency Only

Augusta , Maine , United States | Professional & Technical | Full-time | Partially remote

Apply by : Feb. 13, 2025

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Department of Labor Job Class Code : 0787

Grade : 25 / Professional & Technical

Salary : $54,412.80-$76,315.20 / Annually

Location : AugustaOpening Date : January 30, 2025Closing Date : February 13, 2025

Are you looking to be a part of a team of dedicated professionals committed to building one of the most impactful programs in recent state history? Are you looking for a hybrid- remote position?

The State of Maine is recruiting staff for the Maine Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) Program. The PFML Program Specialist will be a key team member in one of the largest and most impactful new programs in the State with the objective of delivering a service that Mainers can easily use in their time of need.

As a member of the of the Audit and Compliance Unit, the Program Specialist will be a working supervisor position responsible for staff development and community outreach regarding compliance functions for employers related to premium payments, employee classification, and private plan substitutions. This work will be performed under limited supervision and reports directly to the Audit and Compliance Unit Manager located within the PFML Finance and Audit Division. This position will ensure that businesses understand their responsibilities and liabilities under the program and are operating in accordance with statute and rules of the program.

We offer a flexible remote and / or in office work schedule

Primary responsibilities include :

Provides information through trainings and daily communications on PFML law and administrative procedures to clarify the laws and rules to employers, self-elected individuals, and the general public. …Communicates with the public under conditions requiring considerable tact to explain laws, rules, etc.

Oversees the development, implementation, and evaluation of new or revised training initiatives and programs for PFML staff and employers in the community to ensure effective and consistent program operation.

Prepares and reviews training and promotional materials to inform the public of program purpose, guidelines, rules, and regulations.

Serves as an advisor and trainer to staff within the Finance and Audit Division

Consults, collaborates, and confers with bureau management and departmental partners to develop strategies to better integrate program services to improve and / or expand program access and services for all customers seeking department services.

Coordinates and consults with bureau management team to plan, design, and implement core staff development training in order to enhance employee job performance and ensure the bureau has the staff resources needed to meet current services demand.

Perform additional duties assigned by the Administration based on operational needs.

Skills or knowledge required :

Knowledge of PFML laws, rules, regulations, and guidelines

Knowledge of agency goals, objectives, and procedures.

Knowledge of report writing, format, and techniques.

Ability to interpret rules and regulations.

Ability to establish and implement employment and training programs.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Ability to communicate effectively

Ability to write clearly and effectively.

Ability to analyze, evaluate, interpret, and adapt program services and guidelines.

Ability to analyze, evaluate, and interpret program performance data.

Ability to research and develop recommendations for program improvement and compliance, including legislation, rules, regulations, or policies.

Ability to supervise, coordinate, and evaluate the efforts of others.

Ability to manage and lead projects.

Ability to communicate, collaborate, and coordinate with a wide variety of management and non-management positions.

Ability to create PowerPoint presentations, other training materials, and effectively present them virtually or in person the public or to DOL staff

Minimum qualifications :

A Bachelors Degree in Business / Public Administration, Economics, Education, Human Resources, social or behavioral sciences, or related area and four (4) years experience in unemployment program services, employment services, economic analysis, research, business management, or training programs / services. Additional years of experience may be substituted for education on a year-for-year basis.

Preference will be given to those applicants :

With staff development and community outreach experience.

Contact information :

Questions about this position should be directed to Stephanie Harfoush, (207) 215-3737, stephanie.harfoush@maine.go

Application Instructions :

Interested applicants need to apply online by selecting the "Apply for this opening" button along with uploading a cover letter, current resume, and copies of any transcripts or certifications you wish to have considered while evaluating your application. In order for us to properly determine if you meet the minimum qualifications for any posting, you must be sure your resume includes month and year for any experience listed along with the duties and responsibilities associated with each particular time period. Any experience that was not full-time employment should be identified as such.

If you require a paper application, please download and print one here or contact our office at 207-623-6700. Paper applications for this posting should be submitted along with cover letter and resume before the closing date to Security & Employment Service Center, 45 Commerce Drive, Augusta, ME 04330 or faxed to 207-287-2018. Be sure title of the job you are applying for is included. Applications cannot be accepted after the posting closing date.

Benefits of working for the State of Maine :

No matter where you work across Maine state government, you find employees who embody our state motto—"Dirigo" or "I lead"—as they provide essential services to Mainers every day. We believe in supporting our workforce's health and wellbeing with a valuable total compensation package, including :

Work-Life Fit – Rest is essential. Take time for yourself using 13 paid holidays, 12 days of sick leave, and 3 weeks of vacation leave annually. Vacation leave accrual increases with years of service, and overtime-exempt employees receive personal leave.

Health Insurance Coverage – The State of Maine pays 85%-95%of employee-only premiums ($11,196.96 - $12,514.32 annual value), depending on salary. Use this chart to find thepremium costs for you and your family, including the percentage of dependent coverage paid by the State.

Dental Insurance – The State of Maine pays 100% of employee-only dental premiums ($387.92 annual value).

Retirement Plan– The State contributes the equivalent of 13.29% of the employee's pay towards the Maine Public Employees Retirement System (MainePERS) for MSEA, or 18.09% for Confidential employees.

State employees are eligible for anextensive and highly competitive benefits package () , covering many aspects of wellness. Learn about additional wellness benefits for State employees from theOffice of Employee Health and Wellness () .

Note : Benefits may vary somewhat according to specific collective bargaining agreements and are prorated for anything less than full-time.

There's a job and then there's purposeful, transformative work. Our aim is to create a workplace where you can learn, grow, and continuously refine your skills. Applicants demonstrate job requirements in differing ways, and we appreciate that many skills and backgrounds can make people successful in this role.

As an Equal Opportunity employer, Maine State Government embraces a culture of respect and awareness. We are committed to creating a strong sense of belonging for all team members, and our process ensures an inclusive environment to applicants of all backgrounds including diverse race, color, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity, physical or mental disability, religion, age, ancestry, national origin, familial status or genetics.

If you’re looking for a great next step, and want to feel good about what you do, we’d love to hear from you. Please note reasonable accommodations are provided to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request.

Thinking about applying?

Research shows that people from historically excluded communities tend to apply to jobs only when they check every box in the posting. If you’re currently reading this and hesitating to apply for that reason, we encourage you to go for it! Let us know how your lived experience and passion set you apart.

Salary : $11,197 - $12,514