09/20/2012 54590

SPECIAL ASSISTANT TO THE SECRETARY, DCNR

DEFINITION: This is highly responsible advisory and consultative strategic staff work serving as the special assistant to the Secretary of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR).

The employee in this job serves as the special assistant to the Secretary of Conservation and Natural Resources, performing specialized high level strategic staff work in assigned phases of operational activities and a wide variety of high level staff assignments that include a cross section of departmental areas. Work involves advising on and implementing departmental goals and objectives; serving as the primary contact point with program deputies, executive staff, and public officials; representing and acting on behalf of the Secretary at meetings; preparing reports and written correspondence in response to inquiries; and presenting information. Important aspects of this work include responsibility for direct interaction with high level administrative officials and decision-makers, providing oversight and direction to program deputies, monitoring and coordinating departmental programs, identifying and resolving problems, researching issues and recommending and implementing action, and providing advice to the Secretary on sensitive Department-wide matters. Work is performed with a high degree of independence and is reviewed by the Secretary for overall effectiveness and achievement of agency strategic goals and initiatives.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: Performs specialized high level consultative and advisory staff work by providing strategic planning assistance in all program areas to the Secretary and deputy secretaries of DCNR.

Oversees the development, analysis, modification and implementation of the Department’s strategic initiatives.

Formulates or directs the development of departmental policies consistent with the Department’s strategic initiatives and broader policies of the Governor.

Serves as the principal advisor to the Secretary on all matters pertaining to operational management and departmental strategic initiatives.

Works with deputy secretaries to identify issues, programs, and ideas to help implement the Department’s strategic plan and provides advice on unusual, difficult, sensitive, or precedent setting problems.

Monitors the status of projects and major issues and provides direction to deputies to ensure appropriate timely action occurs.

Serves on national and state committees and represents the Secretary at meetings and conferences relating to conservation and energy initiatives.

Initiates and coordinates operational studies and surveys for the purpose of improving methods and practices.

Assists in assigned phases of the operational activities within the Secretary’s office.

Performs the full range of supervisory work.

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

Performs related work as required.

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

Knowledge of research methods and techniques.

Knowledge of government administrative and regulatory functions.

Knowledge of state and federal laws impacting the Department.

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: Seven 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.