The Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care is excited to announce a permanent opening for an Early Learning Program Specialist (Operations & Policy Analyst 2). Now is your chance to play a key role in shaping the future of early education in Oregon! We are looking for a dynamic leader to drive improvements in pre-k and early learning programs, ensuring high-quality instruction, strong teacher-child interactions, and data-driven decision-making. Focused on the Oregon Prenatal to Kindergarten (OPK) program, you'll also support other early learning initiatives while fostering continuous professional growth and collaboration.
Oregon is home to over 275,000 children, birth to kindergarten entry. Our state has an opportunity to change how it supports these children and their families and, in doing so, put itself on the path to an even brighter future. Overwhelming evidence tells us that investing in young children and their families has a lasting impact across their lifetime. Now is your chance to be part of an agency that will have positive impacts on current and future generations of young children and their families.
This position will work a hybrid schedule of working both remotely and in the office at least once per quarter.
Want to learn more about this position? Do you have questions about the application process? Join us virtually for an Informational Session on Friday, February 21st from 12:00PM to 12:30PM (PST). During this Informational Session you will get the chance to speak directly with the hiring manager, who will be discussing this role in detail and answering any questions that you have! Any interested individuals are welcome to join us any time between 12:00PM and 12:30PM (PST) using the meeting link below. Please share this meeting link with anyone that might be interested in this role. Use this link the day of to join the Informational Session: Join the meeting now
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More about us:
This position is part of the Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) which is an agency that prides itself on enabling Oregon's young children and families to learn and thrive. We are responsible for administering state funded early learning programs, including home visiting and site-based infant, toddler, and preschool services and supports for families, licensing Oregon’s child care providers and developing systems that coordinate regional cross sector partnerships through Early Learning Hubs. DELC partners with local Child Care Resource and Referral organizations to provide professional learning, coaching, consultation and other quality improvement opportunities for early learning and care providers.
What you will do:
This position is responsible for developing and managing the systems, processes, and operations needed to plan, implement, and sustain improvements in Oregon’s pre-k and early education programs. The goal is to create an integrated early education system that fosters strong teacher-child interactions, high-quality instruction, and developmentally appropriate practices. Additionally, this role will ensure effective, aligned curriculum and assessments, data-driven decision-making, and continuous professional development. Serving as a liaison with other divisions and external partners, this position will primarily focus on the Oregon Prenatal to Kindergarten (OPK) program, while also supporting other publicly funded early learning initiatives.
To view a complete job description, click here
What we are looking for (minimum qualifications):
A Bachelor's Degree in Business or Public Administration, Behavioral or Social Sciences, Finance, Political Science, Early Learning or related degree; and two years professional-level evaluative, analytical and planning work.
OR;
Any combination of experience and education equivalent to five years of professional-level evaluative, analytical and planning work.
In addition, we are looking for applicants that have the following Desired Attributes (requested skills):
- Program Management Skills – Ability to oversee complex programs, track progress, and ensure timely delivery.
- Strong Communication Skills – Proficiency in written and verbal communication, with the ability to explain complex information clearly.
- Collaboration and Relationship Building – Experience working with diverse groups, both internally and externally.
- Data Analysis Proficiency – Expertise in data collection, analysis, and reporting, including using tools like Excel and Smartsheets.
- Research and Policy Knowledge – Ability to research best practices and assess the impact of legislation and policy changes.
- Attention to Detail – High attention to detail, especially in managing sensitive information and ensuring compliance.
- Leadership and Initiative – Strong leadership skills and a proactive approach to managing projects and processes.
- Experience with Early Childhood Education – Knowledge of early childhood education best practices and related regulations.
- Grant and Proposal Writing – Ability to write and review grants, proposals, and policy documents.
- Compliance and Regulatory Knowledge – Familiarity with program compliance, including monitoring and adhering to regulations.
The Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care strives to create an inclusive environment that welcomes and values the diversity of the people we serve. We foster fairness, equity, and inclusion to create a workplace environment where everyone is treated with respect and dignity. Candidates of all racial and ethnic backgrounds, as well as bilingual/multicultural individuals, are encouraged to apply.
To Apply:
The screening of candidates will be based on a review of an attached resume (limit to two pages). While a cover letter is not required, it is highly encouraged. If you submit a cover letter, please tailor it to the position and address your experience with the desired attributes listed above. Candidates whose backgrounds most closely match the desired attributes and experience section as outlined in this announcement will be invited to interview. For helpful tips on putting together your application materials and interviewing, visit our Resources for Job Seekers page.