Working Title: Early Learning Services Contracts Specialist / State Prog Admin Prin

Job Class: State Program Administrator Principal

Agency: Children Youth & Families Dept

Job ID: 95870

Location: St. Paul Telework Eligible: Yes Full/Part Time: Full-Time Regular/Temporary: Unlimited Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers. This vacancy is open for bids and for all qualified job seekers simultaneously. Bidders will be considered through 8/03/2026. Please note that to be considered a bidder, you must be a permanent, non-probationary DCYF employee in the same job classification as the position posted.

Date Posted: 07/27/2026

Closing Date: 08/10/2026 Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Children Youth & Families Dept / DCYF Central Office MAPE Division/Unit: DCYF/Contract&Grant Management Work Shift: Day Shift Work Hours: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm Days of Work: Monday - Friday Travel Required: No Salary Range: $32.97 - $48.60 / hourly; $68,841 - $101,476 / annually Classified Status: Classified Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/MAPE FLSA Status: Nonexempt Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: Yes

The Department of Children, Youth, and Families is unable to provide sponsorship for work visas. Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States at the start of employment. DCYF does not participate in E-Verify.

The work you'll do is more than just a job.

At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.

*Telework (Within Minnesota or neighboring states) and flexible hours options are available.

***This posting may be used to fill multiple vacancies.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys solving complex problems, improving public systems, and working at the intersection of contracts, finance, and public policy. You'll have the opportunity to influence statewide early learning initiatives while helping ensure public resources are managed responsibly and equitably.

This position is one of two that will provide principal-level leadership for the administration and evaluation of Early Learning Services (ELS) grants and professional/technical (PT) contracts within the Department of Children, Youth and Families. Under limited supervision, this position is responsible for implementing and continuously improving contracts that integrate multiple program activities to ensure efficient, compliant, and outcome-driven service delivery. The role exercises independent judgment in interpreting and applying complex federal and state laws, regulations, and policies, and initiating corrective actions in response to non-compliance or performance concerns.

The position serves as Early Learning Services’ authority on contracts and responsibilities include:

Consolidating program and contract functions into cohesive administrative systems Ensuring compliance with state and federal requirements, including directing corrective actions Advising executive leadership on fiscal strategy, contract policy, program performance, risks, and strategic improvements Representing the division with agency leadership, external partners, legislative and compliance staff

Minimum Qualifications

Three (3) years of experience managing complex budgets and contracts. Experience must demonstrate:

Working knowledge of creating contracts and administrative budgets

Working knowledge of federal and state laws and regulations related to administering programs and funding to non-profits Budget development, fiscal analysis, monitoring, or financial reporting Variety of experiences working effectively with others from different backgrounds and cultures

A bachelor’s degree in business and management or another related degree may substitute for 12 months of experience.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience administering federal grant programs. Experience developing or improving business processes or contract administration systems. Experience leading policy implementation or organizational change initiatives. Experience using SWIFT, EGMS, SharePoint, or other financial or grants management systems. Our employees are dedicated to ensuring cultural responsiveness. Preferred candidates will have a variety of experiences working effectively with others from different backgrounds and cultures.

Additional Requirements

It is the policy of the Department of Children, Youth, and Families that the individual selected for this position successfully complete a background investigation prior to employment, that may include the following components:

Reference check

Criminal Background check Personnel File Review: all current and former public sector employees Additional assessment may be required during the interview process

How To Apply

Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers.

Contact

If you have questions about the position, contact Laura Andersen at laura.andersen@state.mn.us.

To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Anny Xiong at anny.xiong@state.mn.us.

If you are an individual with a disability and need an ADA accommodation for an interview, you may contact the Department of Children, Youth and Families ADA Coordinator at 651-431-4945 or DCYF ADA at ada.dcyf@state.mn.us.

About Children Youth & Families Dept

Our state depends on the success of Minnesota children, youth and families. The Department of Children, Youth, and Families puts children at the center of state government, creating a permanent state agency and commissioner focused on elevating children and families in policy and budget decisions.

This realigns state government to advance equitable outcomes for children, youth, and families through transformative, partnership-driven policies, programs and practices.

Working together to improve the state we love.

What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?

A sense of purpose in their work

Connection with their coworkers and communities Opportunities for personal and professional growth

Benefits

As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.

Your Benefits May Include

Paid vacation and sick leave

12 paid holidays each year Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans Fertility care, including IVF Diabetes care Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years) Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being Support To Help You Reach Your Career Goals

Training, classes, and professional development

Tuition reimbursement Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov)

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) For Work/life Support

A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care

Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS

Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.

Applicants With Disabilities

Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need.