The Policy Specialist works as part of the team within the Policy Unit and coordinates with other Department program and units. This position engaged with internal and external stakeholders to develop and implement new policy and procedures for the Department. The Policy Specialist is responsible for researching and writing policy, developing policy in a team environment, facilitating meetings, providing technical assistance, working with intern and external stakeholders, reviewing federal regulation and state laws, and developing recommendations for continuous improvement. The Policy Specialist assists DCS staff and partners to implement DCS policies and procedures. The position also provides policy guidance and presentations using multiple formats including virtual and in-person deliver, email and memos.
This position may offer the ability to work remotely, within Arizona, based upon the department's business needs and continual meeting of expected performance measures.
The State of Arizona strives for a work culture that affords employees flexibility, autonomy, and trust. Across our many agencies, boards, and commissions, many State employees participate in the State’s Remote Work Program and are able to work remotely in their homes, in offices, and in hoteling spaces. All work, including remote work, should be performed within Arizona unless an exception is properly authorized in advance.
Graduate Degree in a related field; or Bachelor's Degree in a field that requires strong writing and research skill (i.e. political science, social work, communications, etc.) and two years of child welfare experience.
Must be able to secure and maintain clearance from DCS Central Registry.
If this position requires driving or the use of a vehicle as an essential function of the job to conduct State business, then the following requirements apply: Driver’s License Requirements.
All newly hired State employees are subject to and must successfully complete the Electronic Employment Eligibility Verification Program (E-Verify).
The State of Arizona provides an excellent comprehensive benefits package including:
- Affordable medical, dental, life, and short-term disability insurance plans
- Top-ranked retirement and long-term disability plans
- 10 paid holidays per year
- Vacation time accrued at 4.00 hours bi-weekly for the first 3 years
- Sick time accrued at 3.70 hours bi-weekly
- Deferred compensation plan
- Wellness plans
By providing the option of a full-time or part-time remote work schedule, employees enjoy improved work/life balance, report higher job satisfaction, and are more productive. Remote work is a management option and not an employee entitlement or right. An agency may terminate a remote work agreement at its discretion.
Learn more about the Paid Parental Leave pilot program here. For a complete list of benefits provided by The State of Arizona, please visit our benefits page
Positions in this classification participate in the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS). Enrollment eligibility will become effective after 27 weeks of employment.
Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation such as a sign language interpreter or an alternative format by contacting 602-255-3141 or by email at ADA@AZDCS.GOV. Requests should be made as early as possible to allow time to arrange the accommodation. Should you have any further questions regarding the interview process you can reach out to a member of our recruitment team at 602-255-2903 or by email at recruiting@azdcs.gov. The State of Arizona is an Equal Opportunity/Reasonable Accommodation Employer.