Special Programming Workforce Program Coordinator

Special Programming Workforce Program Coordinator

Salary

$63,585.60 - $98,633.60 Annually

Location

State of Iowa - See Job Description, IA

Job Type

Full-time

Job Number

27-00262

Agency

309 - Iowa Workforce Development - Vocational Rehabilitation Services

Opening Date

07/28/2026

Closing Date

8/11/2026 11:59 PM Central

LinkedIn Tag

#LI-POST

Point of Contact

Sandy Ostendorf (sandra.ostendorf@iwd.iowa.gov)

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Job Description

The Iowa Vocational Rehabilitation Team at Iowa Workforce Development is accepting applications for full-time Special Programming Workforce Program Coordinator role in our IowaWORKS offices.

This position currently serves in the role of project manager for the Disability Innovation Fund Subminimum Wage to Competitive Integrated Employment (DIF-SWTCIE) Grant program; however, it is a permanent position with the Vocational Rehabilitation Division of Iowa Workforce Development and will continue post-grant focused on coordination of the ongoing services, supports, and best practices that were implemented through the grant initiatives.

Domicile will be determined based on the hired candidate's location at one of our IowaWorks centers.

Job Description and Responsibilities:

Coordinate, manage, and oversee the Disability Innovation Fund Subminimum Wage to Competitive Integrated Employment (DIF-SWTCIE) Grant program, based on the established DIF Workplan. Communicate with the IWD communication team for branding, marketing, and website for the DIF-SWTCIE grant. Coordinate Collective and Steering Committee meetings, as well as the associated work groups. Provide oversight of DIF-SWTCIE pilot projects and ensure progress, dissemination, and evaluation of each project. Ensure all expenditures, programs, services, and activities are ended at the completion of the grant, in alignment with RSA guidance.

Draft and submit required reporting for the DIF-SWTCIE grant, including end-of-year reports, annual reports, monthly reports, and other requested documents. Ensure successful submission of documents into the appropriate systems. Coordinate with relevant IVRS staff on the review of DIF-SWTICE data to inform grant progress and prepare reports and other requests for DIF-SWTCIE data.

Manage and administer contracts and agreements with vendors related to the DIF-SWTCIE grant (e.g., GHA, CEA, DB101, CEBH, etc.) and IPS and CE services, in accordance with state contracting requirements and federal regulations. Provide consultation and technical assistance to CRPs and IVRS staff to ensure compliance with DIF-SWTCIE and WIOA requirements. Provide recommendations to IVRS Executive Team on necessary program improvements. Identify quality indicators; facilitate, initiate and execute agreements with partners, problem-solve and negotiate on behalf of IVRS to expand training opportunities and program success. Serve on the Contract Oversight and Review Experts (CORE) committee to provide updates on contracts.

Participate in internal and external initiatives that impact employment outcomes for individuals with disabilities who may participate in IPS, CE and/or DIF services. Develop standards for delivering current or new services, as well as procedures for monitoring current or new services, including necessary approvals. Represent the work of the DIF grant in coordination with the State Rehabilitation Council.

Collaborate with all levels of IVRS staff on the development and recommendation of policies that impact services, including IPS and CE. Coordinate with the Supported Employment Resource Manager to ensure the SES manual is in alignment with guidance provided on CE and IPS. Attend associated meetings (e.g., State Rehabilitation Council, IMPACT, etc.) to represent both the DIFSWTCIE grant and associated services.

Serve as the Intermediary for the Direct Support Professional (DSP) Registered Apprenticeship and any associated pre-apprenticeships. Ensure necessary agreements are in place with businesses, schools, and other associated parties. Other duties as assigned.

The successful candidate must be able to pass a criminal background check conducted by the Iowa Department of Public Safety.

About Iowa Workforce Development

Iowa Workforce Development (IWD) is a state agency dedicated to providing exceptional employment services and connecting employers with skilled workers. With a strong focus on continuous improvement and aligning services with workforce demands, IWD offers comprehensive support to job seekers and employers through a statewide network of IowaWORKS Centers.

Employer Highlights and Benefits

IWD is focused on serving Iowans and providing outstanding customer service. Our strength is driven by the skills and talents of our people. IWD offers a rewarding team atmosphere, a flexible working environment, and a great total compensation package for our full-time employees, including:

• Excellent health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous paid time off, including nine paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave with no cap on the sick leave accrual.
• Prepare for the future with the IPERS retirement package, as well as an additional optional deferred compensation retirement plan.
• Flexible Spending Accounts for medical and dependent care.
• Free Life and Long-term Disability Insurance with the option to purchase additional coverage.
• Employee Assistance Programs and Discount Programs for support.

Click here to learn more about all of the amazing benefits the State of Iowa offers.

If you're looking for a career with a well-respected organization that values its employees and

customers, you've come to the right place!

Hours of Work: Monday - Friday 8:00am-4:30pm.

The State of Iowa participates in E-Verify, the State of Iowa participates in E-Verify, a federal program that helps employers confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. Within the required timeframe, new hires will be verified through the E-Verify system to ensure authorization to work in the United States. The State of Iowa also complies with the federal Right to Work laws, which protect employees' rights to work without being required to join a labor organization. For more information, please visit www.e-verify.gov.

No applicant seeking employment with the Iowa Department of Workforce Development can have a current, ongoing overpayment balance with Iowa Workforce Development without a payment plan in place. Select positions will be subject to a criminal background check.

Minimum Qualification Requirements

Applicants must meet at least one of the following minimum requirements to qualify for positions in this job classification:

1) Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a degree in any field, and experience equal to three years of full-time work in employment interviewing, counseling, management, program planning, or occupational, budget, or labor market analysis.

2) Seven years of full-time work experience in employment interviewing, counseling, management, program planning, or occupational, budget, or labor market analysis.

3) All of the following (a, b, and c): a. One year of full-time work experience in employment interviewing, counseling, management, program planning, or occupational, budget, or labor market analysis; and b. A total of four years of education and/or full-time experience (as described in part a), where thirty semester hours of accredited college or university coursework in any field equals one year of full-time experience; and c. A total of two years of graduate-level education and/or full-time experience (as described in part a), where twenty-four semester hours of accredited graduate college or university coursework in business, public administration economics, planning, or a closely-related field equals one year of full-time experience.

4) Current, continuous experience in Iowa Workforce Development that includes two years of full-time work in employment interviewing, counseling, management, program planning, or occupational, budget, or labor market analysis.

For additional information, please click on this link to view the job description.

Why Choose the State of Iowa?

At the heart of our commitment to excellence is a dedication to our most valuable asset - our employees. Discover the outstanding benefits that set us apart as an employer of choice.

Our Robust Benefits Package Includes:

Competitive Compensation:

Enjoy a competitive salary that reflects directly on your skills and expertise.

Keep in mind, your wage is just one part of your total compensation. Unlock the complete value of your employment with the State of Iowa by using our user-friendly Total Compensation Calculator. Gain insights into your comprehensive annual compensation, including salary and State-provided benefits.

Health and Wellness:

Prioritize your well-being with our comprehensive health plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that the State of Iowa covers 90% of the premiums, providing you and your loved ones with excellent coverage at a remarkably low cost.

Retirement Planning:

We are proud to offer the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS). A defined benefit plan, IPERS benefits are guaranteed for life, meaning once you retire, you will receive the same monthly benefit for the remainder of your life (once vested). We invest in your long-term financial well-being, so you can retire with peace of mind. Click here to learn more about IPERS.

Paid Time Off:

Life is unpredictable, and at the State of Iowa, we understand the importance of work-life balance. Our leave policies, including paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave with unlimited accrual, ensure you have the flexibility you need for personal and family matters.

Professional Development:

Elevate your career with continuous learning opportunities. We support your growth through training programs, workshops, and tuition reimbursement.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP):

We care about your well-being beyond the workplace. Access confidential counseling, resources, and support through our Employee Assistance Program.

Diversity and Inclusion:

Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces all backgrounds and perspectives. We believe diversity is a strength that drives innovation.

Join Us - Elevate Your Career:

Ready to elevate your career with the State of Iowa? Click here to explore more about our unparalleled benefits and discover what makes us unique. Your success is our priority!

01

Do you understand that the information provided on your application and resume must be truthful, honest, and accurate to the best of your knowledge?

Knowingly misrepresenting the facts when submitting any information related to an application, examination, certification, appeal, or any other facet of the selection process will result in your disqualification from this application and future employment with the state of Iowa.

• Yes - I understand and agree
• No

02

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY

Have you filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq?

• No - I have NOT filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq
• Yes - I HAVE filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq

03

Do you have seven years of full-time work experience in employment interviewing, counseling, management, program planning, or occupational, budget, or labor market analysis?

• Yes
• No

04

Have you graduated from a four-year college or university? IF YES - How many years do you have of full-time work involving employment interviewing, counseling, management, program planning, or occupational, budget, or labor market analysis?

• I have not graduated from a four-year college/university
• Less than two years of the identified experience
• Two years to less than three years of the identified experience
• Three years or more of the identified experience

05

Do you meet A, B and C: a. One year of full-time work experience in employment interviewing, counseling, management, program planning, or occupational, budget, or labor market analysis; and b. A total of four years of education and/or full-time experience (as described in part a), where thirty semester hours of accredited college or university coursework in any field equals one year of full-time experience; and c. A total of two years of graduate-level education and/or full-time experience (as described in part a), where twenty-four semester hours of accredited graduate college or university coursework in business, public administration economics, planning, or a closely-related field equals one year of full-time experience.

• I meet A, B and C
• I do not meet A, B and C

06

Are you a current employee of Iowa Workforce Development? IF YES - How many years do you have of full-time work in employment interviewing, counseling, management, program planning, or occupational, budget, or labor market analysis?

• I am not a current employee of Iowa Workforce Development
• Less than two years of the identified experience
• Two years or more of the identified experience

Required Question

Employer State of Iowa

Agency 309 - Iowa Workforce Development - Vocational Rehabilitation Services Address 1000 E Grand Ave

Des Moines, Iowa, 50319

Website http://www.ivrs.iowa.gov/index.html