GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF CLASS

The PROGRAM TECHNICIAN 1 provides technical support to line staff by interpreting program policies and controlling regulations, writing and updating policy and/or work manuals, giving technical training, reviewing program operations, and writing reports of findings including recommendations for change.

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES

This class is the first of a two-level series. It is distinguished from the higher level by the lack of the requirement for in-depth program knowledge. In addition the research projects and investigations are of more limited scope and there is limited involvement in representing the program outside the agency.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Positions in this class may perform some or all of the following duties and responsibilities and may perform other associated duties.

1. Technical Consultation. Typical tasks: serves as a communications link within the agency by interpreting laws, rules, regulations, program policies, and procedures to staff; explains agency rules and policies to representatives of other agencies and the public; acts as technical policy advisor to line staff in program administration; writes technical memorandums and reports, writes and/or revises policy and procedure manual(s); designs and develops program related forms; participates in program planning, operational or review meetings.
2. Operations Review. Typical tasks: individually or as a member of a team, conducts on-site review of branch/program operations for compliance with and adherence to standards; identifies operational strengths and weaknesses, problems or areas of noncompliance, and recommends corrective action; follows up to monitor branch/program operational corrective plan. Compiles and writes summary reports; may periodically lead team of analysts.
3. Program Training. Typical tasks: develops and delivers technical training on program policies and procedures; conducts surveys to identify training needs, prepares training materials; develops and updates training and procedure manuals.
4. Miscellaneous. Typical tasks: may draft language for administrative rules; monitor pertinent bills during the legislative session; draft program related legislative concepts for internal review; conduct or participate in special research projects.

RELATIONSHIPS WITH OTHERS

Daily in-person and telephone contact with all levels of staff within the program area or organizational section to exchange information and provide interpretation of policies and regulations. Some contact with agency executive staff to provide information. Regular contact with workers from other agencies (Federal, State, and local) to exchange information and with internal staff and the public to explain program regulations and agency policies. May periodically coordinate a branch/program review as lead reviewer.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Works under general supervision of a supervisor or manager. Uses agency and program related statutes, regulations, and other guidelines and interpretations. Consults with supervisor as necessary to obtain clarification of expected results, report on progress toward completion of assignments, confirm interpretation of regulations and policies, or seek guidance in complicated or less clearly defined areas.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Positions are found in central and remote locations throughout State government (e.g., general government agencies, human or natural resource agencies, or correctional, mental health or higher education institutions, etc.). They require the willingness to work within the environment associated with the position's location. They require the willingness to travel instate including some overnight trips.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Three years of experience administering or coordinating parts or subsets of a project or program.

A Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Management, Public Administration, or field directly related to the position will substitute for two years of the required experience.