Assistant Area Director

This Position is located in Acton

The Department of Developmental Services is dedicated to creating, in partnership with others, innovative and genuine
opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities to participate fully and meaningfully in, and contribute to, their
communities as valued members.

The Assistant Area Director (AAD) assists the Area Director in the management of all administrative, clinical,
programmatic and budgetary operations of the area office, including acting as a liaison with sister state agencies,
community representatives, and DDS staff outside of the area. As a member of the Area Management Team, the AAD
works with area staff and providers to develop new residential, day, and support programs, and to shape and monitor
existing programs to better meet individual’s needs. This involves working with the Area Director to recommend changes
that would improve supports in a cost effective manner. The AAD participates in budget planning and contracting activities
with the Area Director, including assisting with needed contract changes throughout the fiscal year and working with the
Regional Contracts Office as needed. The AAD coordinates with area and regional staff, opportunities for individuals and
families to self-direct their supports. They work directly with Service Coordinators to support their work with individuals
and families in the Participant Directed Program and Agency with Choice options, approving allocations and developing
budgets to support plans that meet individuals’ support needs within their assigned allocation. The AAD is an active
member of the Area Risk Review Committee and provides supports and assistance in managing crisis situations, provides
support around clinical issues, and works with staff to resolve conflict. The AAD has direct supervisory responsibility
for identified positions in the area, utilizing performance evaluation processes in a timely manner and ensuring that the
work environment is maintained consistent with negotiated labor contract and EOHHS policy. This includes providing or
arranging for on-going training and development as needed. The AAD provides indirect supervision as needed to all area
staff.

The ideal candidate will have the following Preferred Qualifications at hire:
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Windows
• Knowledge of DDS Regulations, Policies, and Practices
• Knowledge and experience with DDS process and procedures (ISP) implementation and Risk management
• Experience and knowledge of DDS databases of HCSIS and Meditech.
 

Please Note:
This position is located in Acton, MA, but is scheduled to relocate to Burlington in August 2026
Schedule: 8:45am - 5:00pm
Days Off: Sunday/Saturday
 

Flexibility required to meet the needs of the area office.

About the Department of Developmental Services:
The mission of the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is to create innovative and genuine opportunities
for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities including Autism Spectrum Disorder to participate fully
and contribute meaningfully to their communities as valued members. DDS serves over 43,000 vulnerable individuals
throughout their lifetimes, providing a spectrum of day, employment, and residential supports. The agency directly
oversees and manages $3 billion in public fund