Job Information
TEXAS WORKFORCE COMMISSION Program Specialist (Hybrid) in Austin, Texas
WHO WE ARE: Texas Workforce Commission connects people with careers across the state. While we are based in Austin, TX, we have offices statewide and many of our positions are suitable for teleworking. We're a Family Friendly Certified Workplace with great work-life balance, competitive salaries, extensive opportunities for training and development, and fantastic benefits. This position is located at 1117 Trinity Street, Austin, Texas.
The State Monitor Advocate System provides support to U.S. agricultural workers and employers by ensuring fair access to essential employment benefits and services. TWCs State Monitor Advocate monitors the agencys efforts in this area on an ongoing basis to help ensure migrant and seasonal farmworkers receive equitable access to employment services, including career resources, skill development and workforce protections.
TWC is not considering applications from individuals who require sponsorship for an employment visa, including those currently on student or postgraduate visas. You must be a Texas resident to work for the Texas Workforce Commission or willing to relocate to Texas.
WHO YOU ARE: A dedicated program expert with a passion for ensuring fair and effective workforce programs, particularly for migrant and seasonal farmworkers (MSFWs). A skilled trainer and communicator capable of developing and delivering engaging training programs and materials. An analytical problem-solver with the ability to review complex systems, identify areas for improvement, and develop actionable recommendations. A proactive collaborator who can work effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders. A detail-oriented professional who can manage multiple projects, maintain accurate records, and meet deadlines. A knowledgeable advocate familiar with equitable access to career services, complaint processes, and the unique challenges faced by MSFWs. A travel-ready professional with the ability and willingness to travel at least 30% of the time within the state of Texas and occasionally to other states in the US.
WHAT YOU WILL DO: The State Monitor Advocate Program Specialist reports directly to the State Monitor Advocate (SMA) assisting the SMA in ensuring equitable access to essential employment benefits and services, the effective operation of the Employment Service and Employment-Related Law Complaint System, the Agricultural Recruitment System (ARS), and the Migrant and Seasonal Farmworker (MSFW) outreach program by:
-Developing and Delivering Training: You will create and deliver comprehensive training programs and materials for staff on: equitable access to employment benefits and services, the Complaint System, the ARS, and the MSFW outreach program. This includes self-study guides, webinars, and desk aids. -Providing Technical Assistance: You will visit local Workforce Solutions offices to help implement the training program, providing on-site technical assistance and guidance. Policy Development: You will assist in developing a statewide policy and guide for equitable access to employment services and benefits, the Complaint System, the ARS, and the MSFW outreach program. -Monitoring and Evaluation: You will participate in monitoring reviews and field visits with the State Monitor Advocate (SMA) to the working, living, and gathering areas of MSFWs, to discuss employment services and other employment-related programs with MSFWs, crew leaders, and employers. Substitute for the SMA in monitoring activities as delegated, documenting findings and recommending improvements. -Program Analysis: You will conduct studies, analyze data, and develop recommendations for improvement to program efficiency and effectiveness. Contribute to reports and review proposals. -Advocacy and Outreach: Advocate for improved services in the structure of and delivery of services to MSFWs through the states workforce development system to better address the employment and skill needs of workers, jobseeke s, and employers so farmworkers may improve their living and working conditions. -Consultative Services: You will provide expert advice and counsel to program staff, interpreting policies, procedures, rules, regulations, and standards related to these programs.
The State Monitor Advocate Program Specialist (Program Specialist IV-V) performs highly complex to advanced (senior-level) consultative services and technicalassistance work. Works under limited supervision, with moderate to considerable latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.
YOU WILL BE TRUSTED TO: -Develop and maintain a comprehensive knowledge base of the protections afforded to MSFWs within federal regulations, the Complaint System, the ARS, and the MSFW outreach program. -Participate in on-site visits to local workforce solutions offices to assess compliance and provide technical assistance. -Conduct an ongoing review of the delivery of services and protections afforded by federal regulations to MSFWs. -Conduct and lead trainings for staff and partners across the state. -Analyze program performance data and identify trends to ensure compliance and efficiency. -Provide expert guidance on policy and procedures to ensure effective implementation. -Build relationships with community and professional groups to promote program awareness and support. -Conduct field visits to the working, living and gathering areas of MSFWs to discuss employment services and other employment-related programs with MSFWs, crew leaders and employers. -Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations related to the program area. -Manage multiple tasks and projects effectively while adhering to established timelines. -Communicate effectively with stakeholders, both verbally and in writing. -Prepare detailed reports and presentations on program performance. -Use applicable software (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) for data management, analysis and preparation. -Adhere to ethical standards and always maintain professional conduct. -Perform other related duties as assigned.
YOU QUALIFY WITH: -Program Specialist IV: Two years of full-time experience in the development, implementation, or interpretation of policies and procedures in a public or private agency. -Program Specialist V: Two years and six months of full-time experience in the development, implementation, or interpretation of policies and procedures in a public or private agency. -Both Levels: Relevant academic credits may be applied toward experience qualifications for this position.
YOU ARE A GREAT FIT WITH: -Knowledge of local, state, and federal laws related to MSFWs -Experience with public administration and management techniques, statistical analysis, research techniques, training, policy analysis, program management, and/or legal or paralegal background. -Skill in identifying and utilizing measures of program performance and processing complaints or job orders for temporary agricultural work in the US, including the H-2A visa program or comparable processes. -Ability to gather, analyze, and interpret data and information, devise solutions, promote programs, prepare reports, develop, evaluate, and interpret policies, communicate effectively, and train, lead and prioritize staff workloads. -Are of MSFW background or have substantial work experience in farmworker activities. -Bilingual, English and Spanish
YOU GAIN: -A Family Friendly Certified Workplace. -Competitive starting salary $5,079.81 - $5,844.35 /month -Defined Retirement Benefit Plan -Optional 401(k) and 457 accounts -Medical Insurance -Paid time off, including time for vacation, sick