Program Mgr Employment & Training - Anticipated Vacancy

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Department of Labor -  Bureau of Employment Services

Position:  Program Manager – Anticipated Vacancy

Job Class Code:  0784
Grade:  26 Supervisory
Salary:  $59,716.80 - $84,468.80/Annually
Location:  Augusta

Opening Date:   June 17, 2026

Closing Date:   July 2, 2026

Job Summary:

Are you a leader who enjoys helping businesses succeed, building high-performing teams, improving operations, and solving complex challenges? If so, this may be an opportunity for you! This exciting leadership role oversees two key statewide workforce programs that help employers meet hiring needs, navigate workforce challenges, and access workforce solutions. As the Program Manager for Maine JobLink and Foreign Labor Programs, you will lead a dedicated team committed to exceptional service while navigating complex programs and regulations. This role offers the opportunity to mentor and develop employees, build strong partnerships, improve systems and processes, and ensure programs remain responsive, effective, and accessible. If you are passionate about supporting people, leading teams, and creating positive change, this is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference every day!

Primary Responsibilities:

• Lead and supervise staff who support Maine JobLink and Foreign Labor Programs.
• Ensure programs follow applicable state and federal laws, regulations, policies, and procedures.
• Analyze program data to track performance, identify trends, and support decision-making.
• Develop and update policies, procedures, and guidance to ensure consistent program operations.
• Train, coach, and support staff to build skills and provide excellent customer service.
• Oversee daily operations and identify opportunities to improve efficiency and service delivery.
• Ensure job orders and recruitment activities are accurate, compliant, and meet quality standards.
• Provide guidance and technical assistance on program requirements, processes, and compliance.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Ability to interpret and apply laws and regulations in day-to-day program operations.
• Ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with staff, employers, and partners.
• Understanding of workforce systems, labor market conditions, and statewide training resources.
• Ability to evaluate program effectiveness and use results to drive improvements.
• Ability to apply research, data analysis, and planning to improve programs and decisions.
• Demonstrated ability to supervise, coach, and develop staff.
• Strong communication skills, including clear writing and effective presentation of information.
• Proficiency with computer systems and software for data, reporting, and program management, including the full suite of Microsoft 365.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Strong leadership, supervisory, and team development skills.
• Knowledge of state and federal employment laws, workforce programs, labor regulations, or government compliance requirements.
• Experience managing workforce development, employment services, labor programs, regulatory compliance programs, or related public service initiatives.
• Ability to analyze complex regulations and translate them into practical processes and guidance.
• Experience developing and implementing policies, procedures, and operational guidance.
• Experience delivering training and presentations to diverse audiences.
• Experience working with databases, workforce systems, or technology platforms.
• Strong organizational, problem-solving, and project management abilities.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.

Minimum qualifications:

An eight (8) year combination of education and/or experience demonstrating progressively responsible experience in developing and administering employment and training programs.

Preference will be given to those with:

Leadership and Development, including the ability to lead, supervise, coach, and support staff in a way that builds trust, strengthens performance, and promotes professional growth and accountability;

Relationship and Customer Focus, including the ability to build and maintain strong, respectful relationships with employers, staff, and partners while providing responsive, service-oriented support;

Communication, including the ability to communicate clearly and effectively in writing and verbally, present information, and explain complex topics in a clear and accessible manner to diverse audiences;

Regulations and Program Integrity, including the ability to interpret and apply laws, regulations, and policies practically while ensuring consistent, fair, and compliant program delivery;

Data-Informed Problem Solving, including the ability to use data, analysis, and observation to assess performance, identify issues, and support informed decisions that improve programs and outcomes; and

Organization and Adaptability, including the ability to manage daily program operations using technology and systems, remain organized in a changing environment, and improve processes to increase efficiency and service quality.

Contact Information:

Questions about this position should be directed to:  [email protected]

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%-100% of employee-only premiums ($12,845.82 - $15,112.76 annual value), depending on salary. Use this chart to find the premium costs for you and your family, including the percentage of dependent coverage paid by the State.

• Health Insurance Premium Credit – Participation decreases employee-only premiums by 5%. Visit the Office of Employee Health and Wellness for more information about program requirements.

• Dental Insurance – The State of Maine pays 100% of employee-only dental premiums ($395.72 annual value). 

• Retirement Plan – The State contributes the equivalent of 14.11% of the employee's pay towards the Maine Public Employees Retirement System (MainePERS).

• Parental leave is one of the most important benefits for any working parent. All employees who are welcoming a child—including non-birthing and adoptive parents—receive six weeks of fully paid parental leave. Additional, unpaid leave may also be available, under the Family and Medical Leave Act.

State employees are eligible for an extensive and highly competitive benefits package, covering many aspects of wellness. Learn about additional wellness benefits for State employees from the Office 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.

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If you are unable to complete the online application, please contact the Human Resources representative listed on the job opening you are interested in applying for. They will work with you for an alternative method of submitting.