Job Description

The Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) is seeking an experienced and visionary leader to serve as Commissioner. DTA serves one in seven residents of the Commonwealth by supporting and empowering low-income individuals and families to meet their basic needs, improve their quality of life, and achieve long-term economic stability. Through a comprehensive network of programs and services including food and nutritional assistance, economic assistance, and employment support, DTA helps individuals and families move toward greater independence and self-sufficiency. The agency administers a range of programs including Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children (TAFDC), Emergency Aid to the Elderly, Disabled, and Children (EAEDC), the Healthy Incentives Program (HIP) and Pathways to Work.


This is a unique opportunity to be the executive lead of an agency which has significant scope and impact, overseeing more than 50 local offices and advancing programs that directly affect the lives of children, families, older adults, and people with disabilities. The Commissioner will define the vision for the Commonwealth's economic and nutritional support system, champion culturally competent and equitable services, and strengthen collaborations with state and federal partners, community organizations, and advocacy groups. As the public face of the Department, the Commissioner will represent DTA in conversations with policymakers and the public, while ensuring that programs are delivered efficiently, transparently, and with accountability. The successful candidate will bring strong leadership, financial stewardship, and a deep commitment to public service, positioning DTA to continue improving quality of life and opportunity for residents across Massachusetts.

Duties and Responsibilities (these duties are a general summary and not all inclusive):Provide executive oversight and leadership to define and advance the vision for the Commonwealth's public assistance system. Oversee regional statewide operations across more than 50 local transitional assistance offices (TAOs). Direct strategic and fiscal planning, including development and management of the Department's annual budget. Demonstrate creativity and flexibility in responding to shifting federal perspectives, ensuring continued access to essential benefits and services. Ensure effective and equitable administration of SNAP, TAFDC, EAEDC, and related programs. Strengthen and maintain partnerships with government agencies, community organizations, and advocacy groups. Conduct financial reviews to promote fiscal responsibility and alignment with agency priorities. Lead workforce initiatives, including recruitment, training, and professional development. Represent the Department publicly, including communication with legislators, the media, and stakeholders in coordination with the Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS). Foster collaborative labor relations by engaging with union representatives and addressing workforce concerns. Advance transparency and accountability through data-informed decision-making and reporting. Oversee digital services such as DTA Connectonline to improve client access and provider support. Advocate for policies that enhance the agency's mission and support the diverse needs of Massachusetts residents. Collaborate with the EOHHS Secretary, senior leadership and interagency partners to promote shared priorities and system-wide improvements.

Preferred Qualifications

:

Minimum of fifteen (15) years of progressively responsible leadership experience in health, human services, or public welfare systems. Demonstrated experience managing large, multi-million dollar budgets and ensuring fiscal accountability. Proven ability to lead organizational strategy, policy development, and program implementation at a senior level. Strong understanding of federal and state welfare policies, programs, and regulatory frameworks. Established record of building effective partnerships with government agencies, community organizations, and advocacy groups. Experience overseeing workforce development, including staff recruitment, training, and professional growth. Capacity to manage large-scale projects from design through implementation, ensuring measurable outcomes and alignment with strategic goals. Demonstrated success in managing union relations and fostering a collaborative workforce environment. Exceptional communication skills, with experience serving as a public spokesperson and engaging with legislators, media, and diverse stakeholders. Commitment to advancing equity, diversity, inclusion, and culturally competent service delivery. Ability to apply data-driven approaches to evaluate programs, improve performance, and support transparency. Proven ability to lead large-scale organizational changes and modernize service delivery through innovation and technology. Deep dedication to public service, with the vision and leadership to drive systemic improvements that expand opportunity and economic self-sufficiency for recipients. Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, data management tools, and relevant project management systems.

About the Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance:


The Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) is the state agency that provides essential support to individuals and families in need. DTA helps low-income residents of Massachusetts meet their basic needs and improve their quality of life through a range of programs and services. Its mission centers on promoting economic mobility, food assistance, and overall well-being.



Key Programs:

SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program): Offers monthly benefits to help eligible individuals and families purchase food. TAFDC (Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children): Provides cash assistance and employment support to families with children. EAEDC (Emergency Aid to the Elderly, Disabled, and Children): Offers cash assistance to qualifying individuals who are elderly, disabled, or caring for a child. Employment and Training Services: Helps clients build skills, find jobs, and achieve self-sufficiency.
Accessibility and Support:

DTA operates local offices across Massachusetts and offers online tools through DTA Connectfor managing benefits Services are available in multiple languages and tailored to meet diverse community needs.

Pre-Hire Process:


A tax & background check will be completed on the recommended candidate as required by the regulations set forth by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services prior to the candidate being hired. For more information, please visit http://www.mass.gov/hhs/cori

Education, licensure and certifications will be verified in accordance with the Human Resources Division's Hiring Guidelines.

Education and license/certification information provided by the selected candidate(s) is subject to the Massachusetts Public Records Law and may be published on the Commonwealth's website.

If you require assistance with the application/interview process and would like to request an ADA accommodation, please click on the link and complete the ADA Reasonable Accommodation Online Request Form

For questions, please contact the Office of Human Resources at 1-800-510-4122 and select option #4

Qualifications

MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS:

Applicants must have at least (A) eight (8) years of full-time or, equivalent part-time, professional, administrative, supervisory, or managerial experience in business administration, business management, public administration, public management, clinical administration or clinical management of which (B) at least six (6) years must have been in a managerial capacity.

Comprehensive Benefits

When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.


Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!

Salary placement is determined by a combination of factors, including the candidate's years of directly related experience and education, and alignment with our internal compensation structure as set forth by the Human Resources Division's Hiring Guidelines. For all bargaining unit positions (non-management), compensation is subject to the salary provisions outlined in the applicable collective bargaining agreement and will apply to placement within the appropriate salary range.

An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.

Official Title

Administrator XII

Primary Location

United States-Massachusetts-Boston-1 Ashburton Place

Job

Administrative Services

Agency

Department of Transitional Assistance

Schedule

Full-time

Shift

Day

Job Posting

Nov 20, 2025, 11:54:01 AM

Number of Openings

1

Salary

146,119.39 - 226,740.67 Yearly

If you have Diversity, Affirmative Action or Equal Employment Opportunity questions or need a Reasonable Accommodation, please contact Diversity Officer / ADA Coordinator

Porshia Gray / porshia.gray@mass.gov - 8572758179

Bargaining Unit

M99-Managers (EXE)

Confidential

No

Potentially Eligible for a Hybrid Work Schedule

Yes