Early Intervention Dispute Resolution Specialist; Public Service Administrator

Early Intervention Dispute Resolution Specialist (Public Service Administrator)

The Illinois Department of Early Childhood (IDEC) is seeking to hire an energetic and detail-oriented manager to serve as the Early Intervention Dispute Resolution Specialist. This position administers Early Intervention (EI) dispute resolution processes in compliance with federal and state requirements. The employee in this role will coordinate and administer statewide formal EI dispute resolution processes, including written complaints, mediation, and due process hearings, in accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Part C and applicable state regulations.

They will also ensure families are informed of their dispute resolution rights.

Illinois Department of Early Childhood offers a robust benefit package including:

• Monday-Friday schedule
• Health, life, vision, and dental insurance
• Paid Parental leave
• Pension Plan
• Deferred Compensation, and other pre-tax benefit programs
• Employees earn (12) paid sick days annually
• (10-25) paid vacation days (based on years of service)
• Employees earn (3) paid personal days (pro-rated based on start date)
• (13-14) paid state holidays annually

Work hours and schedule will be mutually agreed upon by supervisor during the onboarding process.

Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you're helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you're part of something bigger—something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home. No matter what state career you're looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule—flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits.

Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.

Essential Functions:

• Subject to management approval of the Early Intervention Clinical and Quality Manager, serves as the Early Intervention Dispute Resolution Specialist.
• Serves as the primary statewide contact for family inquiries related to Early Intervention (EI) complaints, mediation, and due process.
• Analyzes dispute data to inform EI system improvement.
• Performs other duties as required or assigned, which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above

Minimum Qualifications:

• Requires knowledge, skill, and mental development equivalent to the completion of four (4) years of college, with coursework in public administration, compliance, conflict analysis, program administration, or a related field.
• Requires three (3) years of progressively responsible professional experience in dispute resolution, compliance, complaints management, program administration, or a related role.

Specialized

Skills:

• Requires three (3) years of professional experience communicating complex legal or procedural information clearly to families and non-technical audiences.
• Requires three (3) years of professional experience with IDEA Part C, procedural safeguards for families, or formal dispute resolution processes.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Three (3) years of professional experience communicating complex legal or procedural information clearly to families and non-technical audiences.
• Three (3) years of professional experience with IDEA Part C, procedural safeguards for families, or formal dispute resolution processes.
• Three (3) years of professional experience coordinating with legal counsel or supporting formal hearings or investigations related to health and human services programs or special education.
• Two (2) years of professional experience handling sensitive or high-stakes information, such as written complaints, mediation, or due process hearings, with professionalism and discretion.
• Two (2) years of professional experience developing materials, guidance, or training related to rights or procedural safeguards.
• Two (2) years of professional experience analyzing data from complaint or case-tracking systems, identifying trends, preparing reports for leadership or oversight bodies, and applying findings to inform program or system improvement efforts.
• Master's degree in public administration, social work, human services, special education, or a closely related field.

Conditions of Employment:

• Requires the ability to successfully pass an agency criminal history check through the Illinois State Police.
• Requires the ability to successfully pass a Child Abuse and Neglect Tracking System (CANTS) background check.
• Requires the ability to use and maintain state-issued equipment, such as a cell phone, laptop, etc.
• Requires ability to travel in the performance of duties, with overnight stays as appropriate.
• Requires appropriate, valid driver's license.
• Overtime is a condition of employment, and you may be requested or required/mandated to work overtime including…