The Education Secretariat is committed to equity and valuing the unique and diverse characteristics and experiences of every member of its workforce. We encourage an authentic workplace where colleagues show up as their full selves, where collaboration, innovation, and connections are key to realizing our mission that all children, youth, and families thrive socially, academically, and economically. We seek teammates who are committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive work environment, where everyone is valued and engaged. We encourage you to apply and identify your strengths in these areas.

The Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) is seeking a dedicated and motivated individual to support EEC’s efforts to prevent and detect fraud, waste, and abuse and non-compliances with applicable legal, financial accountability, and policy requirements. The Program Integrity Compliance Specialist investigates complaints and performs reviews while obtaining evidence and gathering facts concerning complaints and cases of alleged noncompliance with laws, rules, and regulations related to early child care programs. The Program Integrity Compliance Specialist also monitors various activities, services, or functions relating to the prevention of fraud, waste, and abuse and Intentional Program Violations.

Key Responsibilities

Under the supervision of the Senior Associate Commissioner for Program Integrity and Internal Controls, the Program Integrity Compliance Specialist will conduct the following job duties:

Help to develop the required policies and procedures necessary to enhance EEC’s program integrity efforts

Perform efficient and effective intakes and review complaints and responds to information calls and emails, as required

Ensure responses to all potential fraud submission of any kind within the timelines set out determined by the Senior Associate Commissioner, as far as practicable

Work collaboratively with applicable EEC Units in referring cases for additional compliance monitoring and investigations

Coordinate with Family Access Division on establishing processes for Child Care Financial Assistance (CCFA) families and Substantiated Fraud submissions

Support in determining procedures to be used in collecting information and evidence in connection with complaints and alleged non-compliance with laws, rules and regulations.

Obtain evidence and establish facts concerning complaints and alleged non-compliance with laws, rules and regulations

Prepare appropriate written communication resulting from reviews and make appropriate recommendations and/or corrective actions

Complete assigned reviews and investigations within the timelines set out determined by the Senior Associate Commissioner as far as practicable

Provide excellent customer service and responds promptly to early child care programs, families, and constituents

Perform related duties such as maintaining records, attending meetings and preparing correspondence

Work collaboratively with applicable state agencies including Massachusetts Office of the Inspector General, including strong collaboration with the OIG’s Bureau of Program Integrity, the Massachusetts State Auditor (Bureau of Special Investigation)

Perform other related duties as assigned

Preferred Qualifications

Ability to understand, apply, and explain the provisions of laws, rules, regulations, policies, and procedures governing assigned unit activities.

Ability to give oral and written instructions in a precise, understandable manner.

Ability to work independently as well as in a team setting.

Excellent oral and written communication skills.

Ability to gather information and anticipate and analyze difficult situations

Ability to accurately record information provided orally.

Ability to use investigative techniques to obtain information, examine, record, and draw conclusions.

Ability to exercise sound judgment, deal tactfully with others, and to adjust to changing situations to meet changing program needs.

Ability to exercise discretion in handling confidential information.

Ability to utilize Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and other related software. Must either have the ability to use, or must be capable of learning, the agency’s internal tracking system.

Ability to work flexibly and to adjust to delays and changes in schedules.

A sense of humor and a willingness to embrace challenges are essential.

License and/or Certifications Requirements

Based on assignment, travel is required. Those employees who use a motor vehicle for travel must have a current and valid Massachusetts Class D Motor Vehicle Operator’s License or equivalent from another state.

MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS: Applicants must have at least (A) four years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, professional, administrative or managerial experience in business administration, business management or public administration the major duties of which involved program management, program administration, program coordination, program planning and/or program analysis, and (B) of which at least one year must have been in a supervisory capacity, or (C) any equivalent combination of the required experience and the substitutions below.

Substitutions:

I. A Bachelor's degree with a major in business administration, business management or public administration may be substituted for a maximum of two years of the required (A) experience.*

II. A Graduate degree with a major in business administration, business management or public administration may be substituted for a maximum of three years of the required (A) experience.*

III. A Bachelor's or higher degree with a major other than in business administration, business management or public administration may be substituted for a maximum of one year of the required (A) experience.*

*Education toward such a degree will be prorated on the basis of the proportion of the requirements actually completed.

NOTE: No substitutions will be permitted for the required (B) experience.

Comprehensive Benefits

When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.

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An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.