Assistant Area Director

Assistant Area Director (AAD)

The Department of Developmental Services is dedicated to creating, in partnership with others, innovative and genuine opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities to participate fully and meaningfully in, and contribute to, their communities as valued members.

The Assistant Area Director (AAD) assists the Area Director in the management of all administrative, clinical, programmatic and budgetary operations of the area office, including acting as a liaison with sister state agencies, community representatives, and DDS staff outside of the area.

As a member of the Area Management Team, the AAD works with area staff and providers to develop new residential, day, and support programs, and to shape and monitor existing programs to better meet individual’s needs.

This involves working with the Area Director to recommend changes that would improve supports in a cost effective manner.

The AAD participates in budget planning and contracting activities with the Area Director, including assisting with needed contract changes throughout the fiscal year and working with the Regional Contracts Office as needed. The AAD coordinates with area and regional staff, opportunities for individuals and families to self‑direct their supports.

They work directly with Service Coordinators to support their work with individuals and families in the Participant Directed Program and Agency with Choice options, approving allocations and developing budgets to support plans that meet individuals’ support needs within their assigned allocation.

The AAD is an active member of the Area Risk Review Committee and provides supports and assistance in managing crisis situations, provides support around clinical issues, and works with staff to resolve conflict. The AAD has direct supervisory responsibility for identified positions in the area, utilizing performance evaluation processes in a timely manner and ensuring that the work environment is maintained consistent with negotiated labor contract and EOHHS policy.

This includes providing or arranging for on‑going training and development as needed. The AAD provides indirect supervision as needed to all area staff.

• Working knowledge of Microsoft Windows
• Knowledge of DDS Regulations, Policies, and Practices
• Knowledge and experience with DDS process and procedures (ISP) implementation and Risk management
• Experience and knowledge of DDS databases of HCSIS and Meditech.

This position is located in Acton, MA, but is scheduled to relocate to Burlington in August 2026.

Schedule:

8:45am - 5:00pm

Days Off:
Sunday/Saturday

Flexibility required to meet the needs of the area office.

The mission of the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is to create innovative and genuine opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, to participate fully and contribute meaningfully to their communities as valued members. DDS serves over 43,000 vulnerable individuals throughout their lifetimes, providing a spectrum of day, employment, and residential supports.

The agency directly oversees and manages $3 billion in public funds ($2.7B+ operating budget) and approximately 5,500 staff, the largest state employee workforce of any agency in the Massachusetts executive branch of government.

For more information about our agency and programs, visit:(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)./dds