Deputy Director of Child Advocacy; NMDOJ​/OCA

Deputy Director of Child Advocacy (NMDOJ/OCA #)

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Job Requirements & Classification

Description:

The Office of the Child Advocate (OCA) was established by the New Mexico Legislature in 2025 to serve as an independent, impartial ombuds office for the child welfare system. The OCA is tasked with receiving and reviewing complaints about Children, Youth & Families Department (CYFD), monitoring and reporting on trends, and attempting to resolve case-specific and systemic issues through advocacy, education, reporting, and recommendations.
The Office serves the entire state, and positions may be housed in Albuquerque, Santa Fe, or Las Cruces.
To provide a more complete picture of your qualifications and experience, we request that you submit a cover letter and resume with your application.

Reporting directly to the State Child Advocate, this position assists with the day-to-day operations of the Office of the Child Advocate (OCA), including oversight of intake and investigation functions, development of recommendations, and preparation of the annual report. The position serves as the State Child Advocate's designee when delegated.
Responsibilities include developing and implementing standard operating procedures; supporting strategic and budget planning; coordinating staff and public training; preparing reports; and representing the OCA at meetings, conferences, and other stakeholder engagements. The position also supervises the Intake and Investigations Manager and associated staff, determines which complaints meet the criteria for formal investigation on behalf of the State Child Advocate, and identifies trends, systemic issues, and opportunities for improvement within New Mexico's child welfare system.

• Collaborate with the State Child Advocate to develop and implement agency policies, procedures, and operational practices;
• Establish and maintain partnerships with state agencies, community organizations, and sovereign Nations, Pueblos, and Tribes;
• Represent the Office of the Child Advocate in work groups, committees, and stakeholder meetings;
• Assist with preparation of the OCA annual report, recommendations, and quarterly website updates;
• Support fiscal year budget development and strategic planning;
• Evaluate proposed legislation and policy changes affecting the OCA or the child welfare system;
• Meet with intake and investigations leadership to monitor complaint resolution and investigation activities, identify trends, and provide guidance on case direction;
• Review draft findings, reports, and recommendations, directing revisions as needed;
• Develop and deliver staff and public training programs;
• Examine and respond to Inspection of Public Records Act (IPRA) requests;
• Provide direct case support as needed, including conflict-of-interest or coverage situations;
• Conduct staff meetings, supervision, and performance evaluations;
• Perform other duties as assigned.

The Office of the Child Advocate serves CYFD-involved children and families and other individuals with questions or concerns about the child welfare system.

The ideal candidate will have experience in the following:

• Possesses an advanced degree in law, social work, public policy, public administration, public health, or a related field;
• Demonstrates professional and supervisory or management experience in human services, government, program management, policy development, systems change, or a related field;
• Has knowledge of the legislative process, the Office of the Child Advocate Act, and experience developing policies, procedures, budgets, and program recommendations;
• Uses data analysis to evaluate program effectiveness and inform strategic decision-making;
• Exhibits exceptional research, analytical, and writing skills, with the ability to synthesize complex information, prioritize competing demands, and exercise sound independent judgment;
• Is self-directed, highly organized, and able to work effectively both independently and collaboratively;
• Thrives in a fast-paced environment while managing multiple priorities and competing deadlines;
• Possesses strong knowledge of children's law, child welfare policy, and related systems and procedures.

Preferred qualifications:

• Knowledge of the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) and the Indian Family Protection Act, experience collaborating with Nations, Pueblos, and Tribes, and bilingual proficiency are highly desirable.

Bachelor's Degree in a relevant field of study from an…