Title:  Reach Up Program Director

Overview

As of July 14, 2025, the step 1 rate for pay grade 29 will be $39.66 per hour.

Who We Are: 
The Economic Services Division (ESD) is responsible for the administration of economic benefits to help Vermonters meet their basic needs. ESD is one of 6 divisions under the Department for Children and Families (DCF) which is one of the largest departments (1000 employees) within the largest agency (Agency of Human Services) in the state of Vermont.  
 
ESD Leadership recognizes that the division's biggest resource is our staff and is committed to continuously looking at ways to strengthen and support our workforce. 
 
This position is located in the central office located in Waterbury.
 
The Role: 
Reach Up is one of ESD's benefits programs.  It provides financial assistance and coaching services for Vermont families meeting income eligibility criteria.  The program's mission is "Reach Up joins families on their journey to overcome obstacles, explore opportunities, improve their finances and reach their goals". The Reach Up Program Director is responsible for administration of the Reach Up program including establishing division priorities and objectives for the program, ensuring compliance with program requirements/rules, and ensuring high level service delivery to program participants.
ESD is looking for someone to join this team who: 
•    will collaborate with leadership, operations, and program staff in a solution focused manner
•    has considerable knowledge of the welfare-to-work program and the regulations and policies related to the program
•    will conceptualize and propose program improvements in a collaborative manner
•    will contribute to the development, cohesion, and productivity of the Reach Up program team in support of district staff through open and honest communication. 
•    thrives in a busy work environment 
•    is open to learning new technology and evidence-based strategies 
•    has a growth mindset, is flexible and adaptable in a changing work environment 
•    recognizes the historic inequities and racism in social and economic systems, and their impact on people today 
 
What we offer  
•    We may offer flex scheduling or alternative work schedules based upon policy 
•    11 paid holidays, plus sick and vacation time 
•    Excellent, health, dental, and vision insurance for employees and their families. 
•    Retirement plans, including a pension 
•    Parental leave for all new parents, including adoptions 
•    Working with a staff who is dedicated to supporting children and families, including your own.

Who May Apply

This position, Reach Up Program Director (Job Requisition #52912), is open to all State employees and external applicants.
If you would like more information about this position, please contact nicole.tousignant@vermont.gov
Resumes will not be accepted via e-mail.  You must apply online to be considered.
Please note that multiple positions in the same work location may be filled from this job posting.

AHS BACKGROUND CHECKS:  Candidates must pass any level of background investigation applicable to the position.  In accordance with AHS Policy 4.02, Hiring Standards, Vermont and/or national criminal record checks, as well as DMV and adult and child abuse registry checks, as appropriate to the position under recruitment, will be conducted on candidates, with the exception of those who are current classified state employees seeking transfer, promotion or demotion into an AHS classified position or are persons exercising re-employment (RIF) rights.

Environmental Factors

Duties are generally performed in a standard office setting but some travel may be required for which private means of transportation must be available. Involvement in fair hearing and court cases may occur as well as appearances before legislative committees.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor' degree in a human services related field, public or business administration or economic development AND 4 (4) years or more of managerial or program administration experience in the areas of human services, community development, economic development, employment and training, or adult education; with at least two (2) years in a supervisory capacity.

OR

Six (6) years or more managerial or program administration experience in the areas of human services, community development, economic development, employment and training, or adult education; with at least two (2) years in a supervisory capacity. 

Total Compensation

As a State employee you are offered a great career opportunity, but it's more than a paycheck. The State's total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits that are worth about 30% of your total compensation, including:

• 80% State paid medical premium
• Dental Plan at no cost for employees and their families
• Flexible Spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts
• Two ways to save for your retirement: A State defined benefit pension plan and a deferred compensation 457(b) plan
• Work/Life balance: 11 paid holidays each year and a generous leave plan; many jobs also allow for a flexible schedule
• Low cost group life insurance
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Incentive-based Wellness Program
• Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program

Want the specifics? Explore the Benefits of State Employment on our website.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The State of Vermont celebrates diversity, and is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect and meaningful inclusion that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The State does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV Status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, membership in an employee organization, family medical history or genetic information, or family or parental status. The State’s employment decisions are merit-based. Retaliatory adverse employment actions by the State are forbidden.