CLASS SPECIFICATION
PROGRAM MANAGER I
DEFINITION OF CLASS:
This is either 1) professional work directing one or more operational programs
and/or managing and monitoring contracts of moderate scope, expenditure and
effect; or, 2) professional staff work involving the analysis of considerable
data, identifying various approaches and alternatives, and developing recommendations/drafting
decisions for the consideration of or issuance by a higher level official or
manager, which directly affect the operation of a program. The majority of contacts
are with employees in the same or other departments and agencies of the County
Government, State, and Federal agencies, non-profit and private sector organizations.
The purposes of the contacts, which generally are of a cooperative nature with
both parties working toward mutual goals, are for planning and coordinating
management of the program or resolving program operating problems. While the
program work requires frequent meeting with the public, limited one-to-one assistance
is provided directly to the public.
An employee in this class utilizes knowledge of a wide range of program management
and subject matter program principles, techniques, functions, regulations and
procedures in planning, organizing, directing and evaluating programs and/or
contracts. Assignments may also require knowledge of and skill in using computer
and automated office technology. The employee independently plans and carries
out all aspects of program development, implementation and evaluation advising
higher level management of program status and achievements as well as potentially
controversial matters or far reaching implications of decisions rendered. Completed
work is reviewed in terms of a program's effectiveness in meeting stated goals
and objectives. The employee adapts standard program practices and procedures
to meet situations or cases not fully covered by existing guidelines, and recommends
modification of current guides. Decisions concerning needs assessments, implementation
approaches, and evaluation of outcome require review of considerable and sometimes
conflicting or incomplete data, and consideration of several alternatives and
complex inter-relationships. Work outputs affect the social, physical, or economic
well-being of program participants or recipients of services. For most positions
in this class, the work is primarily sedentary, performed in an office environment
and presents no significant hazards. However, depending on the type of program
managed, incumbents of other positions in this class: must be able to: work
outdoors in all types of weather conditions; and independently move and use
equipment weighing up to 60 pounds. Some employees in this class may be designated
as supervisors.
(NOTE: The occupational field of program management work involves directing
or carrying out assignments for one or more programs; or, providing staff support
to a higher level manager directing a line program or function. Responsibility
for contract administration is frequently included. The programs generally relate
directly to a department's/agency's mission of providing services to County
residents. This field of work is distinguished from management support functions
such as personnel, budgeting or other administrative type tasks which are designed
to facilitate the activities of other employees providing direct services. Work
typical of the program management occupation consists of three distinct but
interrelated functions: 1) determining what to do and deciding how and when
to do it; 2) carrying out or overseeing the accomplishment of the work to achieve
established objectives; and 3) evaluating the effectiveness of the activities
carried out. Depending on the nature and level of the individual position, one
or more of these functions may be assigned.)
EXAMPLES OF DUTIES: (Illustrative Only)
Assimilates, analyzes, and disseminates information and data pertaining to issues
affecting program, program recipients and the general public.
Studies local and State legislative proposals, policy, or recommendations and
prepares comments or testimony to present to the County Council, courts, and
legislative sub committees of the Maryland General Assembly.
Exercises direction over lower level professionals and other employees by assigning
work, furnishing advice and instructions, and reviewing completed assignments.
Develops and administers contracts, which may include preparing requests for
proposals (RFP's), advertising, reviewing bids and proposals, contract preparation
and processing, contract fiscal monitoring, administration of funds, and oversight
of contractor performance.
Plans and writes grant applications and manages grant-funded projects.
Maintains liaison with contractors, funding sources (e.g., State or Federal),
and other government agencies to plan and design projects; reviews plans or
changes and amendments to plans, and develops and implements systems for fiscal
management of funds.
Initiates action to authorize, revise, continue, or discontinue assistance and
services based on the results of reviews of circumstances of clients.
Analyzes, adapts, and/or implements departmental or agency operating and administrative
practices and procedures related to records management, forms used, reports
generated, and various other phases of program organization and administration.
Maintains contacts with individuals, families, or groups to develop up to date
information to help them explore solutions to their problems, and/or initiate
appropriate and timely action.
Facilitates or expedites recommendations and innovative strategies to address
and correct County problems and issues by providing background information and
data to appropriate public and private groups, and determines ways to involve
the private sector and/or the business community in County efforts that will
be mutually beneficial.
Initiates, coordinates, or contributes to such special events as workshops,
professional and press conferences, seminars, and public hearings.
Performs related duties as required.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Experience: Considerable (3 years) experience in a program/specialization
area directly related to the assignment of the position.
Education: Graduation from an accredited college or university with a
Bachelor's Degree.
Equivalency: An equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Considerable knowledge of laws, rules, and regulations which apply to provisions
and limitations of program to which assigned.
Considerable knowledge of the principles, practices or techniques of program
development, implementation, management and evaluation.
Ability to conduct analytical studies and make recommendations concerning effectiveness,
efficiency, and productivity of assigned program(s).
Knowledge of the general principles of procurement, contract management, and
personnel administration, as required.
Knowledge of Federal and/or State grant funding requirements and regulations,
as required.
Skill in leading assigned employees, providing instruction, and reviewing their
work.
Skill in explaining and defending ideas and positions, both orally and in writing,
and in persuading individuals and groups to support assigned program activities
or decisions.
Ability to deal tactfully, effectively and equitably with people.
Ability to attend meetings or perform work at locations outside the office if
necessary.
LICENSE:
For the Operations & Equipment Systems Program Manager in the Department
of Transportation: Possession of a valid medically certified Class B CDL in
accordance with Maryland State Commercial Driver's License requirements.
PROBATIONARY PERIOD:
Individuals appointed to a non-bargaining unit position in this class will be
required to serve a probationary period of twelve months; or if promoted to
a non-bargaining unit position in this class, serve a probationary period of
six months. Individuals appointed or promoted to a bargaining unit position
in this class will be required to serve a probationary period of six months.
Performance will be carefully evaluated during the probationary period. Continuation
in this class will be contingent upon successful completion of the probationary
period.
MEDICAL PROTOCOL: Medical History Review
NOTE: Medical protocol may vary according to assignment as follows:
(1) Paratransit Program Manager - Core Exam + Drug/Alcohol Screen.
(2) DEP Program Manager if confined space entry training is required - Core
Exam with Drug/Alcohol Screen. Call OMS for clarification when assignment known.
(3) Operations Equipment & Systems Program Manager in the Department of
Transportation - Core Drug and Alcohol.
(3) Program Manager positions assigned to the Department of Correction and Rehabilitation
require a Core + Drug/Alcohol Screen when job duties involve interaction with
the inmate population. Call OMS for clarification when assignment is known.
Class Established: May 1977
Revised: July 1984
March 1988
September 1990
April 1995 (M)
January 2004
May 2007
March 2008
May 2012