Operations Manager Jobs in Helena, MT (NOW HIRING)

Note: Employees for the State of Montana must reside within Montana. All applications and required application documents must be submitted through the MT Careers site at: https://mtstatejobs.taleo.net/careersection/200/jobdetail.ftl?job=26142096&tz=GMT-06:00&tzname=America/Denver

If you want to help Montana seize a once in a generation moment to modernize its workforce system and expand opportunity in every corner of the state, this is the seat at the table that lets you do it. You will shape how big choices about talent, training, and opportunity get made, building the systems and tools that turn good ideas into real outcomes for workers and employers. You'll lead high performing teams that turn data and policy into bold new approaches, redefining what's possible for workforce development in Montana.

MISSION STATEMENT:

Empowering all Montanans through work and opportunity.

It's about the people and the impact we make in our communities every day. We are proud of our open, team-based, supportive, and collaborative work environments. Learn more about DLI here.

POSITION OVERVIEW:

The Montana Department of Labor & Industry (DLI) is seeking a Deputy Administrator of Operations to lead the day to day operations, data, and policy infrastructure that powers the Workforce Services Division (WSD). This role is the operational backbone for implementing Montana's 406 JOBS Initiative, America's Talent Strategy, and other workforce priorities, ensuring programs run smoothly, while leadership has the information needed to make timely, evidence based decisions.
The Deputy Administrator of Operations directly oversees the Workforce Policy Bureau, Montana's State Economist team, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) team, and the Data Strategy & Operational Systems team. Together, these teams manage labor market information, federal and state performance reporting, division wide technology tools, and staff training that support every program and Job Service office in the state. The position also oversees the Workforce Programs and Policy Bureau, which includes workforce program management, monitoring, and quality assurance functions. The position provides strategic oversight for the Workforce Services Division, aligning internal operations, reporting tools, and performance management with state and federal workforce policy.
This is a pivotal time for Montana's workforce system. Alignment between federal workforce and educational programming is increasing, funding streams are evolving, employer expectations are changing, and Montana is reshaping how education, training, and work connect for Montanans. The Deputy Administrator of Operations will play a central leadership role in redesigning how data flows across agencies, how performance is measured, and how policy is translated into day to day practice. They will also play a lead role in the agency's groundbreaking project to redesign the tools that shape how job seekers and employers reach each other- directly shaping the future of workforce development in the state.

WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU:

• Shape how big choices about talent, training, and opportunity get made, building systems and tools that turn good ideas into real outcomes for workers and employers.
• Lead high performing policy, data, economic, and technology teams that sit at the center of Montana's workforce transformation, with a direct line of sight to statewide impact.
• Help Montana respond to a changing federal workforce landscape by strengthening compliance, modernizing reporting systems, and positioning the state to leverage emerging federal opportunities.
• Work at the nexus of workforce, education, and economic development policy, giving you a rare, system wide view of how decisions made in Helena ripple out to communities across the state.
• Deepen your expertise in federal workforce, education, and labor market policy, learning how to navigate complex guidance, influence state strategy, and communicate with legislative and executive leaders.
• Build advanced leadership skills by managing technical and cross functional teams, leading through change, and coaching emerging leaders in data, policy, and operations.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

The Deputy Administrator of Operations will:

• Lead and coordinate the day-to-day internal operations of the Workforce Services Division, ensuring alignment between program and technical staff. In partnership with the Deputy of Outreach, assure alignment across operational and outreach teams within the division.
• Provide direct leadership to the Workforce Policy Bureau, Economist team, BLS team, and Technology & Training team, setting priorities, managing performance, and fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement.
• Direct and oversee teams executing labor market research, federal and state performance reporting, data analysis, and the development of public dashboards and economic reports that inform workforce policy.
• Direct teams in translating federal guidance, regulations, and policy changes into actionable policy recommendations, internal action plans, operational procedures, tools, and staff training; build division-wide capacity to consistently interpret, apply, and operationalize evolving federal requirements.
• In coordination with the State Workforce Innovation Board (SWIB), oversee internal division implementation and tracking of Montana's 406 JOBS Initiative, including operational planning, reporting, and evaluation strategies that connect daily work to broader system goals.
• In coordination with the State Workforce Innovation Board (SWIB), oversee the ongoing development and launch of Montana's Talent Marketplace technology including integration of Montana's Credential Registry, Learning and Employment Records (LERs), career explorations tools, labor market information, skills generator capabilities, and more into a single unified user experience.
• Manage data sharing and policy coordination efforts with other state agencies and education entities to support comprehensive evaluation of workforce, education, and training initiatives.
• Oversee the development and maintenance of reporting tools, dashboards, and analytic platforms that provide timely, actionable insights for businesses, legislators, agency leadership, the State Workforce Innovation Board (SWIB), and other stakeholders.
• Guide managers and bureau leaders in project planning, prioritization, and operational problem solving to improve efficiency, reduce administrative burden, and support high quality service delivery statewide.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES:

The ideal candidate will demonstrate advanced knowledge and proficiency in the following areas: 

• Ability to set a clear vision for diverse teams and aligning their work so they deliver measurable results for workers, employers, and communities.
• Skills in overseeing complex, division-wide operations and competing priorities so programs stay strategic, aligned to state and federal priorities, and high performing over time.
• Ability to foster positive accountability by setting clear expectations, providing regular feedback, and coaching individuals and teams to meet commitments, ensuring high performance while maintaining trust, respect, and a solutionsfocused approach to addressing gaps.
• Knowledge of workforce, labor market, and economic trends, with the skill to use that insight to shape strategy, policy direction, and program implementation.
• Ability to empower teams to think critically, innovate, and take ownership of driving meaningful, sustained change across the workforce system.
• Ability to analyze technical federal workforce and educational guidance, regulations, funding opportunities, and performance requirements; assess implications for Montana's workforce system; and develop clear, data-driven policy recommendations for Agency Leadership.
• Ability to build policy and implementation capacity across the division by training, mentoring, and upskilling leaders and staff to interpret federal requirements and funding opportunities, use data and evidence effectively, and translate policy direction into operational practice.
• Knowledge of and skills in data governance and technology systems so information is reliable, secure, and routinely used to drive better decisions.
• Ability to communicate a compelling narrative about the workforce system and workforce/education alignment to executive leadership, legislators, state agency partners, and external partners, building understanding and support for key initiatives.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS (Education and Experience)

• Demonstrated experience leading teams or initiatives that improved how a system works (for example, modernizing a process, building a new tool, or piloting an innovative approach) in workforce development, education, public administration, data, or a related field, typically built over at least five (5) years of management or supervisory experience.
• Experience using or leading teams in the use of data, evidence, or human centered feedback to rethink how services are designed or delivered, with clear examples of changes that led to better outcomes, efficiency, or user experience.
• Experience working in or alongside public systems (such as workforce, education, human services, or economic development) and translating complex policies or requirements into practical solutions that make it easier for staff and customers to succeed.
• Demonstrated success leading teams through change - helping people adopt new tools, processes, or ways of working while maintaining trust, clarity, and a focus on results.
• Strong communication skills, including the ability to frame a compelling vision, explain complex ideas in plain language, and build support for new directions with leadership, staff, and external partners.
• Comfort managing teams who utilize digital tools, data dashboards, or reporting systems and advising technical staff on design and improvement of tools that are intuitive and useful for end users.
• A degree in public administration, economics, data science, business, public policy, or a related field may supplement relevant professional experience but is not a substitute for demonstrated innovation, leadership, and impact in the areas noted above. Equivalent combinations of education and directly related experience will be considered.

HOW TO APPLY FOR THIS OPPORTUNITY:

A complete state application is not required; however, you will need to initiate the application and attach the resume, cover letter or other required documents at time of application to be considered for this position. Resume will auto fill the application, but the application will not be scored or reviewed.

Failure to attach the cover letter and resume will result in your application being considered incomplete and will not be considered further. Materials submitted but not requested will not be considered in the selection process.

Tip: When attaching your resume, cover letter or other required documents you must mark the attachments as "RELEVANT" or we will be unable to view your documents.

Required application materials:

• Cover Letter - Your Cover Letter should explain how your experience and education meet the identified required skills and competencies, with examples that demonstrate your qualifications.
• Resume - include all work experience you have held that would help you qualify for this position, including duties, dates of employment.

Only online applications will be accepted. By applying online, you can receive updates and monitor the status of your application.

All documents for Veteran or Disability preference must be received or date stamped by the closing date. You will receive an application confirmation email with instructions on acceptable preference documents and how to submit such documents.

If you need an accommodation with the application process, please contact the HR office.

BENEFITS:

Being able to enjoy the quality of life in the beautiful state of Montana is one of the benefits you will love about this opportunity! Our mountains, waterways and open spaces provide not only beautiful scenery but year-round recreational opportunities including hiking, camping, biking, fishing, boating, hunting, skiing and snowmobiling. Montana boasts a high-quality education system and a variety of entertainment including fairs, rodeos, and theaters. Read more about our great state here.

See our other incredible benefits here. These are some of our benefits just to name a few:

• Work/life balance with hybrid schedules or partial telework may be available within the state of Montana.
• 38 paid days off a year including vacation, sick leave and holidays.
• Military leave: You'll get up to 15 days of military leave with full pay.
• Longevity raises with continuous service, as well as any negotiated market increases and state statutory raises.
• Health, dental, vision, life insurance coverage, flexible spending accounts, EAP - click here to learn more.
• Free telehealth and access to free employee medical clinics through our medical plan - click here to learn more.
• Choice between two retirement plans with an employer contribution between 8.73% - 9.07% of your annual salary.  A third optional 457(b) deferred compensation plan is also available. - Click here to learn more.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness- Employment with the State of Montana may qualify you to receive loan forgiveness- click here to learn more!
• Career progression, training opportunities and room for professional growth.
• State employee discounts at various businesses across the state.

*This position may be covered by a Voluntary Employee Beneficiary Association (VEBA)

E-Verify: This agency is participating in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. After accepting a job offer and completing Form I-9, your information will be submitted to the Department of Homeland Security and Social Security Administration for verification. For more information about E-Verify, please visit the E-Verify website found here, https://www.e...