QUALITY ASSURANCE SPECIALIST (DJS Program Specialist)

Introduction Join us in making a difference at DJS! The Maryland Department of Juvenile Services is dedicated to transforming young lives, creating safer communities, and fostering equitable systems. We are seeking passionate individuals for the role of DJS Program Specialist (Quality Assurance Specialist) to support DJS–OIG, L&M by monitoring the quality and sufficiency of services provided to DJS youth and helping to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of youth in care. Grade 17 Location of Position Department of Juvenile Services (DJS) – Headquarters, Office of Inspector General (OIG), Licensing and Monitoring Unit (L&M), 217 E. Redwood St., Baltimore, Maryland 21202 Main Purpose of Job The Quality Assurance Specialist plays a critical role in monitoring licensed and certified programs, contracted and per‑diem private provider programs, out‑of‑state residential programs, and non‑residential community‑based programs to ensure compliance with applicable federal and state laws, statutes, regulations, and DJS policies and procedures. The role serves as a key safeguard for youth and contributes to accountability, continuous improvement, and the delivery of safe, effective, and youth‑centered services across the DJS system. Key Responsibilities Monitor and evaluate programs: Conduct licensing, monitoring, and certification activities for in‑state and out‑of‑state programs, including private, per‑diem, and community‑based providers. Assess compliance with statutes, regulations, policies, administrative directives, and best practices to support the health, safety, and well‑being of youth in care. Report and analyze data: Prepare clear, concise, and accurate reports supported by sufficient, relevant, and competent evidence, including research data, facility inspections, interviews with youth and staff, program policies, and other supporting documentation. Review and track incident data: Conduct ongoing review and analysis of incident reports for assigned programs. Collaborate with the L&M Data Coordinator to identify trends, coordinate follow‑up with providers and licensing agencies, and address potential risks. Provide support to the Director of Licensing and Monitoring in response to executive‑level requests. Database and record management: Enter and maintain licensing, monitoring, and certification findings in the L&M Database to ensure timely and accurate records. Review incident reporting data to identify trends and indicators of risk. Maintain current licensing and monitoring directories, provider contacts, schedules, and shared files. Collaboration and engagement: Participate in staff meetings, team meetings, workgroups, and other relevant internal and external meetings. Provide support to other OIG teams as needed to advance shared goals and agency priorities. This position is eligible to work a hybrid telework schedule. This position will require travel between various sites. Minimum Qualifications Education: A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. Experience: Three years of experience providing case management or resource specialist services to youth in a community or residential setting. Note: Candidates may substitute possession of an Associate of Arts degree in the social or behavioral sciences from an accredited college or university and two years of experience providing direct services to children in a community or residential setting for the required education. Candidates may substitute possession of a Master’s degree in the social or behavioral sciences from an accredited college or university for one year of the required experience. Candidates may substitute four years of experience providing case management or resource specialist services to youth in a community or residential setting for four years of college. Candidates may substitute U.S. Armed Forces military service experience as a commissioned officer in Correctional Institution Administration classifications or Correctional Institution Administration specialty codes in the Miscellaneous Occupations field of work on a year‑for‑year basis for the required experience and education. Desired or Preferred Qualifications At least one (1) year of professional experience performing compliance monitoring and reporting in the areas of program management, case management, and/or detention or committed facility management, or residential setting. Possession of a valid driver’s license. Licenses, Registrations, and Certifications Employees in this classification may be assigned duties that require the operation of a motor vehicle. Employees assigned such duties may be required to possess a motor vehicle operator’s license valid in the State of Maryland. Benefits State of Maryland Benefits EEO Statement DJS is an equal‑opportunity employer and is committed to diversity in the workplace. Specifically, we value diverse experiences regarding the educational background and justice system contact. DJS values the experience gained by Veterans while serving our country. Veterans are welcome to apply for all current recruitments. Bilingual applicants and people with disabilities are welcome to apply for all recruitments. Candidates with lived experience relating to the criminal/juvenile legal system are encouraged to apply. We welcome experienced professionals transitioning from federal service to explore rewarding career opportunities. #J-18808-Ljbffr State of Maryland