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Nutrition Program Administration Specialist

Education Staff Specialist III

Recruitment #24-005298-0007

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Introduction

The Maryland State Department of Education is dedicated to supporting a world-class educational system that prepares all students for college and career success in the 21st century. With excellent stewardship from our divisions, we oversee State and federal programs that support the needs of a diverse population – students, teachers, principals, and other educators throughout Maryland.

GRADE

18

LOCATION OF POSITION

Nancy S. Grasmick Education Building
200 West Baltimore Street
Baltimore, Maryland 21201

Main Purpose of Job

The main purpose of this position is to lead assigned programs and serve as technical specialist providing direct consultation, advice, and technical assistance to agencies operating the child nutrition programs (CNPs) administered by MSDE’s Office of School and Community Nutrition Programs (OSCNP) in alignment with the OSCNP and department’s strategic plan; ensuring excellence, efficiency, and equity. Programs include: Child and Adult Care Food Program, Summer Food Service Program, MD Meals for Achievement, Special Milk Program, School Breakfast and National School Lunch Programs including the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable and Farm to School components. Incumbent implements agencies initiatives to advance program objectives in order to optimize student nutritional well-being, overall wellness, and achievement and increase the effectiveness of the programs for students, early childhood, and adults. Ensures programs meet or exceed State and federal standards.

POSITION DUTIES

Providing Leadership

  • Collaborate in development, assessment, and implementation of PAS strategic plan ensuring alignment with OSCNP and departmental goals.
  • Administer and manage the CNP to ensure understanding of the Programs, ensure compliance, and maximize access by agencies and participants to CNPs. Serve as Lead Program Specialist for assigned CNPs and grants.
  • Interpret new and current laws, regulations and guidelines; facilitate implementation by development and communication of policies, procedures, and other pertinent information to OSCNP, other MSDE educational divisions, schools, early childhood centers, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and others as appropriate.
  • Serve as OSCNP and Department liaison between public and private nonprofit agencies, and various community organizations to advance Program objectives.
  • Assist Section Chief to assign tasks and assist in leading support staff and contractual staff working within the Section.

Meeting Operational Standards

  • Review and process new and participating agency updates according to regulation and policy.
  • Plan, develop and conduct training for new and participating agencies.
  • Collaborates with compliance staff in conducting administrative reviews and in corrective action process for agencies determined seriously deficient.
  • Collaborate with Financial Management, Program Compliance, Professional Development and Training, and Technology Sections to evaluate program effectiveness, alignment with OSCNP and department goals, and determine needs and plan of action.
  • Coordinate OSCNP staff in planning and response to USDA Management Evaluations.
  • Evaluate and analyze data reports, agency annual financial reports, and budgets in collaboration with appropriate OSCNP staff.
  • Develop, document, and communicate, business processes to ensure efficiency and excellence.

Building External Capacity

  • Initiate development, revision, and distribution of OSCNP annual policy memo series, and other guidance and resources.
  • Plan, develop, and provide Program information, outreach, training, and technical assistance to current and prospective agencies, the general public, legislators, independent auditors, and partnering organizations.
  • Provide specialized technical assistance to Agencies seeking to expand or enhance their participation in Child Nutrition Programs.
  • Conduct site visits to offer on-site technical assistance and evaluate the capability of agencies to participate in CNPs.
  • Develop and update training curriculum and professional development opportunities for school and child care agency staff.
  • Attend and assist with planning conferences conducted by OSCNP, allied organizations, and advocates.
  • Resolve Program inquires and problems.
  • Represent OSCNP at regional and national events and conferences.

Building Internal Capacity

  • Coordinate with OSCNP staff and other MSDE divisions to identify opportunities that enable Agencies to maximize their CNP Program benefits and advance goals and objectives.
  • Provide assistance, training, and guidance to other staff and consultants.
  • Collaborate on special projects with other OSCNP sections and specialists, and participate on various committees. Initiate and manage special projects as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education: A Master’s degree or at least 36 hours of equivalent post-baccalaureate course work from an accredited college or university in Health Science, Food Service Administration, Consumer Science, Dietetics, Nutrition, Public Health, Public/Business Administration, or a related area.

Experience: Three (3) years’ experience in nutrition program administration, coordination or management, or a related area; or as a Registered Dietitian.

Note: 
1. Candidates may substitute a Bachelor’s degree and five years of experience as described above for the required education. 
2. The above requirements are set by the Maryland State Department of Education in accordance with Education Article, Section 2-104, Annotated Code of Maryland.

DESIRED OR PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Preference will be given to applicants who possess the following preferred qualification(s). Include clear and specific information on your application regarding your qualifications.
  • Knowledge of federal laws and regulations governing USDA Child Nutrition Programs. 
  • Knowledge of food safety, menu planning, food production and distribution.
  • Experience in program management, providing technical assistance, and the development and interpretation of policies and procedures.
  • Experience in analysis of data, identification of trends, challenges, and opportunities, leading to the development of goals and action plans.
  • Registered Dietitian
  • Knowledge of food safety, menu planning, food production and distribution.

LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS

Employees in this classification may be assigned duties which require the operation of a motor vehicle. Employees assigned such duties will be required to possess a motor vehicle operator’s license valid in the State of Maryland.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Applicants must consent to State and FBI (CJIS) background check as a routine procedure for all employees.

SELECTION PROCESS

Please make sure that you provide sufficient information on your application to show that you meet the qualifications for this recruitment. All information concerning your qualifications must be submitted by the closing date. We will not consider information submitted after this date. Successful candidates will be ranked as Best Qualified, Better Qualified, or Qualified and placed on the eligible (employment) list for at least one year.

BENEFITS

FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS

It is preferred that applicants complete the MD State Government online application for employment. The application must clearly demonstrate that the applicant meets the minimum qualifications for the position. If the applicant is unable to apply online, paper applications can be obtained from the link below and be faxed to 410-333-8950 or mailed to MSDE Office of Human Resources, 200 W. Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD 21201. If there is a supplemental questionnaire, this must be completed and sent in with your paper application, if you are unable to apply online.

All application materials must be received in our office by the closing date. Postmarks will not be accepted. Applications must be complete to be considered including all related job duties, even if those are also listed on an attached resume. Additional required materials may be uploaded with the online application, submitted to the fax number, or mailed to the address listed.

Inquiries can be made to 410-767-0019, TDD 410-333-3045. Appropriate accommodations can be made for individuals with disabilities.

If you have difficulty with your user account or have general questions about this online application system, please contact the MD Department of Budget and Management, Recruitment and Examination Division at 410-767-4850. TTY Users: Call via Maryland Relay.

Proof of eligibility to work is required in compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act. Any misrepresentation of academic or experience requirements for this position may result in non-selection or termination of employment.

As an equal opportunity employer, Maryland is committed to recruiting, retaining and promoting employees who are reflective of the State’s diversity. People with disabilities and bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply.

We thank our Veterans for their service to our country.




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