02/08/2011 09985

SPECIAL ASSISTANT TO THE SECRETARY, DGS

DEFINITION: This is highly responsible staff work serving as a special assistant to the Secretary of the Department of General Services.

The employee in this job serves as a special assistant to the Secretary of the Department of General Services, performing specialized high level staff work in assigned phases of operational activities and a wide variety of high level staff assignments which include a cross section of departmental areas. Work involves advising and assisting with the establishment of departmental goals and objectives; serving as the primary contact point with program deputies and staff, federal staff and local government and public officials; representing the Secretary at meetings; preparing reports and written correspondence in response to inquiries; and presenting information. Important aspects of this work include providing oversight to program deputies, monitoring and coordinating departmental programs, identifying and resolving problems, researching issues and recommending action and providing advice to the Secretary on sensitive department-wide matters. Work is performed under the general direction of the Secretary and is reviewed through conferences and evaluation of reports.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: Performs specialized high level staff work by providing assistance in all program areas to the Secretary and Deputy Secretaries of the Department of General Services.

Assists the Secretary in establishing and directing the implementation of departmental goals and objectives.

Reviews agency policies and makes recommendations to the Secretary for necessary changes and ensures compliance with departmental goals and objectives.

Maintains liaison with department staff and with federal, state and local municipalities’ officials.

Identifies problems and issues with department operations and recommends appropriate action to the Secretary.

Researches and compiles data for the Secretary in preparation of meetings and official responses.

Conducts oversight of special projects assigned by the Secretary.

Provides advice and information on behalf of the Secretary on sensitive department-wide matters.

Represents the Secretary at various meetings and conferences.

Performs the full range of supervisory work.

The employee in this job may participate in the performance of subordinates’ work consistent with operational or organization requirements.

Performs related work as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of the principles and practices of public administration.

Knowledge of the legislative process.

Knowledge of government administrative and regulatory functions.

Knowledge of research methods and techniques.

Ability to analyze and interpret policies, goals, and objectives

Ability to communicate effectively orally.

Ability to communicate effectively in writing.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: Five years of professional administrative or consultative experience; and a bachelor's degree in political science, public administration or a related field;

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An equivalent combination of experience and training.