The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) has a career opportunity within the Early Childhood and Family Support Division, Early Childhood Services Bureau.

Our mission at DPHHS is to improve and protect the health, well-being, and self-reliance of all Montanans throughout every stage of their life. By joining our team, you will have the opportunity to perform meaningful work in public service to our state and its residents. Whether you are joining the workforce or have several years of experience, DPHHS has the opportunity for you!

The Mission of the Early Childhood Services Bureau (ECSB) is to improve quality, affordability, and accessibility of early care and education in Montana with focused efforts on coordinated systems to best meet the needs of young children, their families, and the professionals who work on behalf of young children and families.

As such, this position is involved with the development, implementation, and evaluation of the Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) Best Beginnings Initiatives. This position also provides program support and direction of CCDF program initiatives within the overall funding. The position recommends courses of action, weighs effectiveness, and suggests program changes to bureau management.

This position may be eligible for partial telework within the state of Montana. Specific conditions will be provided by the supervisor and must adhere to state policy.

What we can offer you

The State of Montana's comprehensive benefits package includes healthcare coverage, retirement plans, paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays, work/life balance, and eligibility to participate in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. Visit the Health Care and Benefits Division for more information at https://benefits.mt.gov/. In addition to employee benefits, there are a wide range of advancement opportunities within the largest state agency in Montana.

What you can offer us

• Knowledge of program planning, coordination, and administration of rules, regulations, and policies concerning childcare and early childhood education.
• Knowledge of principles, theories, and best practices of childcare services, early care and education, childcare programs, early childhood development, family and children’s services systems, and program marketing.
• General knowledge of contract and grant management.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills including technical writing and public speaking.
• Training skills, interpersonal skills, negotiation, and group facilitation skills.
• Analytical, conflict management, and interpretive skills.
• Ability to monitor contractors’ performance and create analysis reports.
• Meet minimum qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s degree in early childhood development, social work, education, counseling, or other closely related field.
  • Three years of experience in early childhood services, contract/grant management, and early childhood education or services programs.
  • Other combinations of education and related experience may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
  • Preferred contract and grant management experience in early childhood services.

For a copy of the full job description or if you need a reasonable accommodation in the application or hiring process, contact Human Resources.

How to Apply

Submit the following required documents with your application on the State of Montana Careers website. When submitting the required documents, you must check the “relevant document” box to ensure your attachments are uploading correctly to the specific application for this position.

• Resume
• Cover Letter

To be considered for any DPHHS position, applicants must complete and submit their application online, and upload any required documents. Successful applicant(s) are required to successfully pass all DPHHS specific background check(s) relevant to each position. DPHHS is an equal opportunity employer. Women, minorities, and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.