DHHS Administrator II - Developmental Disabilities

Job Description

The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services is seeking a highly motivated, detail-oriented individual to join our leadership team as a DHHS Administrator II to provide executive leadership for our statewide Developmental Disabilities services, including programs operating under CMS Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) authorities. This Administrator II position will specifically manage the AD waiver.

Under administrative direction, this position is responsible for strategic planning, policy development, and oversight of complex, high-visibility Developmental Disabilities programs with significant fiscal, regulatory, and public impact. The role emphasizes long‑range system planning and program improvement and reports to the Deputy Director of Operations – Developmental Disabilities.

Ainsworth, NE;
Lincoln, NE;
Omaha, NE;
Scottsbluff, NE.

• Establish, direct, and control all activities of a major, complex Unit with diverse, statewide programs.
• Manage resources and budgets to support operations, including coordination with subordinate managers, contractors, vendors, and providers.
• Administer programs under complex federal, state, and agency regulations, applying broad management practices and significant judgment.
• Formulate, implement, or direct development of policies, rules, and regulations with significant statewide impact; interpret policies and procedures for staff, stakeholders, and external partners.
• Conduct strategic and long‑term planning to define program direction, evaluate organizational performance, and identify improvement opportunities.
• Direct and conduct studies, research, and analysis to assess program trends, issues, and accomplishments; develop and implement major initiatives.
• Collaborate with program staff, administrators, client groups, governmental officials, and private organizations to address operational problems, coordinate activities, and facilitate effective service delivery.
• Make high‑impact decisions in critical or unexpected situations.
• Direct operations through subordinate managers and administrators; establish work activities and organizational structures to meet goals.
• Participate in selection, supervision, and evaluation of subordinate managers and key employees; represent agency in employee relations issues such as grievances and complaints.
• Serve as agency subject matter expert for Unit operations; represent DHHS at state and national meetings, providing guidance, information, and leadership in complex situations.
• Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in public administration, social work, human development, public health, behavioral science, law, finance, human resources or other program related field AND four years of experience in a field related to the assigned program area including supervisory experience; OR a master’s degree in any of the above-mentioned fields and two years commensurate experience. Equivalent experience or coursework/training may be substituted for the educational requirement on a year‑for‑year basis.

Preferred Requirements: Experience supervising and leading teammates, facilitating, and presenting in meetings, and engaging in difficult conversations. Experience in Word, Excel, Outlook, NFOCUS and Therap. Knowledge of Centers for Medicaid and Medicare (CMS) and Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Waivers, specifically the two DD HCBS Waivers, the Aged and Disabled (AD) Waiver, and the Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Waiver. Program knowledge of Targeted Case Management and Service Coordination responsibilities and functions.

Other: Possess a valid driver's license and have immediate access to a reliable vehicle. A state vehicle may be provided depending on office location.

Knowledge of: Federal and state laws and regulations related to Developmental Disabilities programs; quality assurance and performance improvement principles; business and management principles; supervision and staff development; and budget administration practices.

Skilled in: Effective communication; logical reasoning and problem solving; identifying and evaluating complex issues and implementing solutions.

Ability to: Interpret and apply agency policies; establish program objectives and assess outcomes; analyze organizational and operational problems; formulate policies; adapt to changing priorities; perform high‑level analysis and strategic planning; exercise sound judgment in critical situations; build effective working relationships; plan, assign, and supervise the work of others.

We offer a comprehensive package of pay, benefits, paid time off, retirement and professional development opportunities to help you get the most out of your career and life. Your paycheck is just part of your total compensation.

Benefit eligibility may vary by position, agency and employment status. For more information on benefits, please visit:…