HUMAN SERVICES PROGRAM CONSULTANT 22273

05/01/92 B

This is the third class in the Human Services Program Specialist series. Positions in this class are responsible for complex program development, implementation, oversight, and evaluation of either a segment of a major complex Human Service Program or all of a smaller statewide program serving a large specialized population. These positions serve as program experts for their assigned area and function in the central office of state agencies to develop and oversee the implementation of major programs for essential services. This class is distinguished from the Human Services Program Coordinator by its responsibility for overall program development, imple-mentation, and administration of the assigned program.

Complexity of Work: Performs work of unusual difficulty in developing human service programs to assure available services for targeted populations. The work involves the development of policy and procedures related to the specialty area. As the central office expert, these positions are responsible for the direction of programs administered by local entities. Positions work with regional or geographically located satellite offices to respond to questions and to provide resource information on program operations and technical issues; act as technical consultants to the assigned program, and state agency administrators on the comprehensive aspects of program and its impact; and assist with short and long range plans to improve the agency's services and program visibility. Coordinates program development with ancillary agencies and internal departments and recommends new approaches designed to maximize services. Analyzes and interprets federal rules, legislation and develops applicable manual materials. Assesses and evaluates the effectiveness of policies developed and implemented locally. Proposes recommendations for program/ policy changes to enhance effectiveness. May supervise a small subordinate staff in the administration of the program. Regularly represents the agency on task forces and committees. May conduct special studies on specific aspects related to the program area assigned.

Supervision Given: Supervision is typically not a factor; however, positions may supervise a small subordinate professional and paraprofessional staff in support of the overall program.

Supervision Received: Receives administrative supervision from a Human Services Program Supervisor, Manager, Director, or other agency administrator.

Scope: The work involves regional or statewide responsibility for a complex program serving a large targeted population.

Impact of Actions: Activities have a significant, long-term impact on program development and the quality of services received by clients. Activities also impact the public image of the agency.

Personal Contacts: Frequent internal and external contact occurs with agency administrators and managers, program supervisors, staff of other agencies, ancillary groups, regional program staff, and federal, state and local government officials.

Knowledge: Comprehensive knowledge of the administration of human service programs and/or of the specialty area assigned; of the diverse needs of clients and community organizations, programs, and local government systems.

Skills: None identified for this class.

Abilities: Demonstrated ability to interpret laws, rules and regulations; to develop state policy based on federal regulations; to analyze information and reach sound conclusions and to communicate findings both in writing and orally; to identify program needs and recommend changes; to conduct research and independently resolve related program issues; to design programs to meet projected service delivery goals and objectives; and to provide technical assistance to localities with regard to administrative or program issues.

QUALIFICATIONS GUIDE*

Licenses or Certification: None.

Education or Training: Graduation from an accredited college or university with major course work in the social or behavioral sciences, education, or a related field.

Level and Type of Experience: Professional experience in the delivery of human service programs that included program development, evaluation, policy/regulation analysis, and coordination across organizational boundaries.

An equivalent combination of training and experience indicating possession of the preceding knowledge and abilities may substitute for this education and experience.

This class was revised as a result of a Classification Review/Specification Update Program study. It replaces the Program Support Consultant class, effective May 1992.