Director - Research, Family & Partnerships Program Manager Senior I

State of Maryland; Maryland; On-site; USD 95,000 - 155,000; Full time

Job summary

The Maryland State Department of Education seeks a Director of Research, Policy and Partnerships to lead policy development and strategic planning in early childhood education. This role involves collaboration with various stakeholders and managing policy implementation related to child care and early learning initiatives.

Benefits

State of Maryland benefits

Qualifications

• Five years of professional experience in management or policy development.
• Knowledge of state and federal statutes supporting early childhood programs.

Responsibilities

• Directs research and policy development activities.
• Leads stakeholder engagement and policy drafting processes.
• Monitors legislative and budget processes.

Skills

Policy Analysis

Collaboration

Effective Communication

Education

Bachelor’s Degree

Master’s Degree

Job description

Introduction

The Maryland State Department of Education is dedicated to supporting a world-class educational system that prepares all students for college and career success in the 21st century. With excellent stewardship from our divisions, we oversee State and federal programs that support the needs of a diverse population – students, teachers, principals, and other educators throughout Maryland.

GRADE

State Salary Grade 23
Salary Range: $95,991 - $154,928*
State Salary Guidelines apply for current State employees

LOCATION OF POSITION

Nancy S. Grasmick Education Building
200 West Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD 21201

Main Purpose of Job

This position serves as the Director of Research, Policy and Partnerships, reporting directly to the Assistant State Superintendent of the Division of Early Childhood (DEC). The role provides research and policy development support, leads the development and implementation of DEC’s strategic policy agenda, and manages policy review, assessment, and documentation efforts. Focus areas include early childhood and Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) policies, research, and analysis, including needs assessments, cost of quality studies, and building early learning systems. The role also involves interpreting, shaping, and supporting policy implementation related to Maryland’s regulations on child care licensure, scholarships, Prekindergarten programs, and connections to initiatives like Early Head Start and Head Start. The incumbent collaborates with internal and external partners, builds effective relationships, and advances Maryland’s early childhood priorities in a results-focused manner.

POSITION DUTIES

• Directs DEC’s research, strategic planning, and policy development activities.

• Advises on strategic priorities aligned with MSDE’s overall goals, federal and state policies, and performance metrics.

• Leads research, stakeholder engagement, and policy drafting processes for new or updated policies.

• Ensures policies are well documented, communicated, and compliant with legislative requirements.

• Monitors legislative, regulatory, and budget processes, and communicates implications.

• Develops systems for progress monitoring, identifying barriers, and tracking performance.

• Represents the department in collaborations with various educational and community partners.

• Manages the preparation of reports and responses related to Maryland’s early childhood policies.

• Builds and maintains relationships with stakeholders across early learning sectors.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent 36 post-baccalaureate credit hours in relevant fields.

• Five (5) years of professional experience in management, policy development, research, or analysis related to early childhood programs.

• A Master’s Degree may substitute for two years of experience.

DESIRED OR PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Knowledge of state and federal statutes, regulations, and funding supporting early childhood programs.

• Familiarity with CCDF, child care subsidies, Head Start, and related programs.

• Understanding of current research and evidence-based practices for early childhood outcomes.

• Skills in policy analysis, collaboration, staff supervision, data interpretation, and effective communication.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Applicants must consent to State and FBI (CJIS) background checks.

SELECTION PROCESS

Applicants should provide comprehensive information demonstrating qualification. Successful candidates will be ranked and the list will be valid for at least one year.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

Educational and experience requirements are based on essential job functions.

BENEFITS

State of Maryland benefits are available.

FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS

Complete the online application and submit a detailed resume. Additional materials can be uploaded, faxed, or mailed. For assistance, contact 410-767-0019 or the Maryland Department of Budget and Management. Accommodations are available for individuals with disabilities. Proof of eligibility to work is required. Maryland is an equal opportunity employer, encouraging applications from individuals with disabilities and bilingual candidates. All materials must be received by the closing date.