Adult Protective Services District Director

WHY WORK FOR DFPS?

The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) is responsible for protecting the unprotected — children, elderly, and people with disabilities — from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. DFPS accomplishes this responsibility by employing over 12,000 workers who live up to the agency's Mission, Vision, & Values in service to the citizens of Texas. DFPS is not only a qualifying organization for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program but also offers excellent health benefits, special discounts on many products and services through the Discount Purchase Program, longevity pay, generous paid leave, access to the Wellness program, lifetime retirement annuity, Texa$aver 401(k) and 457 Programs under the Employees Retirement System of Texas.

Brief Job Description:

The Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) Adult Protective Service (APS) District Director reports to the APS Director of Field Operations. Provides leadership and management for the daily operations of the DFPS Adult Protective Services program within a designated District of the state and supervises district staff. Provides district-wide leadership, oversight, technical guidance and expertise for APS program policies, processes, activities and functions. Directs the administration of APS program policies and procedures district-wide and oversees the effective delivery of adult protective services to clients within the district. Identifies systemic issues, policy conflicts, knowledge and process gaps and deficiencies, and oversees implementation of strategic program improvements. Directs the development, evaluation and implementation of APS program policies and procedural changes. Provides vision, leadership, strategic direction and planning for the APS program and coordinates with division and agency executive leadership, and program and operations management to implement the APS strategic plan for the district. Develops and implements strategies to promote and improve case outcomes and application of APS case management strategies and methods. Develops, establishes and facilitates intra-agency and external workgroups, meetings, teams and committees to support the operation of the APS program within the district. Directs stakeholder outreach initiatives and activities, research functions for best program practices, and communications development. Hires, manages, and supervises APS district staff. Develops the district’s biennial budget and Legislative Appropriations Requests (LAR) for division management. Serves as a liaison and subject matter expert for APS program and district operations. Provides subject matter expertise, district metrics and data to the APS Associate Commissioner and agency executive leadership and develops district improvements.

Oversees the consistent application of statewide APS program policies and procedures within the district Oversees the development, preparation and dissemination of workforce and productivity reports. This position collaborates with district personnel across the state, DFPS state office staff, various community organizations, public and private entities, elected local officials, legislative contacts and other statewide elected officials to enhance and advance the mission of the agency and the APS program. Provides oversight and direction for the program regarding four key pillars of the Adult Protective Services program: workforce management; client outcomes; general administration and community engagement.

Represents APS at business meetings, advisory groups, hearings, legislative sessions and meetings, seminars, conferences, workgroups, task forces and committees. Works under minimal supervision, with extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

Essential Job Functions (EJFs):

Directs and coordinates the district-based operations and activities of the Adult Protective Services (APS) program, which investigates complaints alleging abuse, exploitation or neglect of elderly or disabled adults. Provides district-wide leadership, oversight, technical guidance and expertise for APS program policies, processes, activities and functions and supervises program staff. Oversees the implementation and management of case timeliness and quality standards and outcomes, and implements policy and procedure changes ensuring continuity of service delivery. Directs the administration of APS program policies and procedures within the district to ensure compliance with applicable state and federal laws, regulations, and agency policies and procedures. Provides vision, leadership and strategic direction for the district and coordinates with executive leadership and program and operations management to establish program policies and procedures that are in compliance with all applicable state and federal laws, regulations, and agency policies and procedures. Develops, establishes and implements long-term district goals and objectives consistent with the agency’s mission and strategic plan. Directs the consistent administration of APS program policies and procedures to promote effective program administration and service delivery. Provides guidance and consultation for the APS program in the development of the agency’s strategic plan and business plan. Directs the development, evaluation and implementation of APS program, policy and procedural changes district-wide in accordance with new or revised federal and state laws, rules, regulations, and stakeholder input and agency policies. (20%)

Develops, establishes and facilitates intra-agency and external workgroups and committees to review and assess best APS program district practices and to facilitate business process improvements for the program area. Plans, organizes, and facilitates internal and external meetings, multidisciplinary teams and workgroups for strengthening APS program district activities and fostering collaboration with external stakeholders. Directs stakeholder outreach initiatives and activities, research functions, and the development of various materials and media regarding the APS program for presentation to legislative committees, state and federal agencies, and internal and external organizations. Reviews and addresses issues and concerns expressed by state and federal officials, legislative staff and members, media, stakeholders and the public regarding APS program initiatives and activities in coordination with agency executive leadership and government relations. Provides guidance, coordination and support regarding the preparation, publication and dissemination of reports, studies and information relating to APS program district actions, policies and procedures. Develops, implements, and monitors plans, procedures, and techniques to ensure effective allocation and management of District resources. (20%)

Directs, plans, develops and approves schedules, prioritizes district activities, develops standards for achieving APS program goals within the district, and directs program evaluation activities. Develops and directs the implementation of studies, assessments, projects and other tools to evaluate district strengths, and identify areas for improvement. Coordinates the development and proposal of solutions to APS program issues and trends. Directs the design and implementation of special projects, initiatives and assignments related to APS district and program activities to assess efficiencies, workflow and productivity measures and to meet organizational needs and APS program requirements. Oversees the development, preparation and dissemination of workforce and productivity reports and data to communicate results and develop recommendations for changes or program improvements within the district.

Establishes and implements reporting requirements for oversight of APS program metrics and performance measures in the district to ensure that staff and program performance standards are met. Evaluates reporting and data to monitor, continually assess and improve District performance, and develops plans to address needs. Identifies district systemic issues, policy conflicts, knowledge and process gaps and deficiencies, and oversees the revision and implementation of changes and improvements. (20%)

Collaborates with community stakeholders including, but not limited to: advocacy organizations, law enforcement, other agencies, faith-based organizations, and health care and other service providers. Develops, establishes and facilitates intra-agency and external workgroups and committees to review and assess best practices and to facilitate business process improvements for the program area to mitigate risk, ensure best practices for the agency and promote positive outcomes for APS clients. Represents APS at business meetings, advisory groups, hearings, legislative sessions and meetings, seminars, conferences, workgroups, task forces and committees. (10%)

Hires, manages and provides guidance and professional development for APS district staff. Provides direct reports with work assignments, clear direction and information on responsibilities and work performance expectations. Develops work performance plans, creates and maintains position descriptions for direct reports and conducts performance evaluations at least annually. Oversees the development and advancement of APS district staff through training and effective use of employee development plans. Manages employee time and leave responsibilities, and carries out other related human resources activities with program staff. Provides leadership to employees using a performance management strategy and development process to provide an overall context and framework to encourage employee contribution, and includes goal setting, feedback, and performance development planning. Leads employees to meet the organization's expectations for productivity, quality, and goal accomplishment. Creates and maintains a work environment that supports high performing teams, retention of staff, learning and continuous improvement. (10%)

Develops, reviews, updates and monitors the district’s biennial budget and Legislative Appropriations Requests in coordination with the APS Associate Commissioner to manage resources, needs and priorities. Assesses and makes determinations regarding budget requests and expenditures. Represents APS and the agency at business meetings, advisory groups, hearings, legislative sessions and meetings, seminars, conferences, workgroups, task forces and committees. Serves as a liaison, representative and subject matter expert for the APS program to internal and external entities, stakeholders and legislative representatives. (10%)

Directs key APS district projects and creates and maintains an efficient and integrated reporting and management structure. Develops, implements, and reviews results of special investigations, internal audits, research studies, forecasts, and modeling exercises to provide overall direction and guidance on district and program policies, processes, goals and program performance to promote efficient and effective utilization of program resources. Provides district metrics and performance data to the APS Associate Commissioner on the status and progress of APS district activities, and recommends strategies for effective program management and improvements. Manages timely, informative and appropriate communications to field staff and to the APS Director of Field and other state office staff. Accurately report on the status and progress of APS operations in the region. Performs other duties as assigned and required to maintain District and regional operations (10%)

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):

Knowledge of local, state, and federal laws and regulations relevant to program areas.

Ability to direct and organize program activities.

Ability to identify problems, evaluate alternatives, and implement effective solutions.

Ability to collaborate and work closely with community organizations.

Skill in managing multiple and competing priorities.

Skill in problem solving and analytical thinking/analysis.

Skills in leadership, communication and public speaking.

Skill in working collaboratively and cooperatively with diverse groups.

Ability to plan, assign and/or supervise the work of others.

Ability to build, establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Ability to make timely and effective decisions.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:

N/A

Initial Screening Criteria:

The Director II position is open to current and former Texas APS staff members with 3 + years of advanced management experience serving as a program administrator or director within the APS program.

Additional Information:

This position can be housed in any office in region 3.

Review our Tips for Success when applying for jobs at DFPS, DSHS and HHSC.

Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information please see the Texas State Auditor’s Job Descriptions, Military Crosswalk and Military Crosswalk Guide at Texas State Auditor's Office - Job Descriptions. You may also contact the DFPS Military Liaison at dfpsmilvets@dfps.texas.gov with additional questions.

Applicants selected for hire must pass a background check and if applicable a driver’s record check.

As a state agency, DFPS is required by Texas Administrative Code (TAC 206 and 213) to ensure all Electronic Information Resources (EIR) follow accessibility standards. The staff must be familiar with the WCAG 2.1 AA and Section 508 to create accessible content including but not limited to; Microsoft Office documents, Adobe PDFs, webpages, software, training guides, video, and audio files. 

DFPS uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Employees must provide documentation to DFPS to show their identity and authorization to work in the US. Please review the following link for authorized documents: https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents .

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS/DFPS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS/DFPS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.