Lead QRIS Technology Liaison & Data Management Specialist

The Johns Hopkins University Center for Technology in Education (CTE) changes lives through knowledge that matters by designing, developing, and implementing learner-centered, technology-enhanced solutions to ensure equal access to education in classrooms and work settings across the globe. Our work at CTE involves many aspects of technology and innovation in education; from online learning platforms to systems that communicate or store data to digital tools educators need to successfully increase positive outcomes for all children, including those with disabilities. Our work focuses on landscape analyses, technical assistance, professional learning, and applied research techniques to build organizations’ capacity to promote inclusionary practices and maintain equity for all learners.

CTE is recruiting a Lead QRIS Technology Liaison & Data Managment Specialist for a Maryland EXCELS Technology Liaison and Data Management Specialist. In addition to working directly with childcare programs and supervising Program Quality Specialists, the Technology Liaison and Data Management Specialist serves as a connection between QRIS implementation, QRIS technology, and QRIS research.

The successful candidate will also have first-hand experience of the operations of the systems in Maryland, particularly with experience/deep understanding of the state management and policy-setting roles related to ECE. Exemplary skills in both written and verbal communication are critical. Basic understandings of Universal Design for Learning principles and Accessibility standards are critical.

Specific Duties & Responsibilities

• Provide email, telephone, and/or online technical support to a team of Program Coordinators. Responsibilities include documentation of communication, providing a second tier of pre-assessment support, and identifying support needed for users.
• Review and conduct analyses of Program Quality Specialist pre-assessment ratings to ensure reliability and effectiveness in communication with Maryland EXCELS participants. Provide ongoing reporting on findings.
• As needed, manage a caseload of Maryland EXCELS programs and provide pre-assessment ratings or coaching to help educators improve the quality of their program.
• Maintain, manage, and work to improve the Maryland EXCELS Additional Achievements model. This may include statewide and national stakeholder communication (e.g. organizing and leading workgroups).
• Manage regular (daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly) reporting.
• Monitor, manage, and report on new Maryland EXCELS applications.
• Monitor, manage, and update Maryland EXCELS online content to ensure it is recent, accurate, and accessible.
• Manage Help Desk tasks such as fielding escalated tickets, maintaining and updating knowledge base, monitoring monthly Help Desk reports.
• Facilitate program feedback that will inform QRIS leadership of needed system improvements or professional development needs.
• As needed, contribute to research deliverables.
• Review reported issues. Identify and recommend needed fixes and enhancements related to the Maryland EXCELS online system.

Special Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• The position requires strong analytical skills and the ability to collaborate with others. The ideal candidate demonstrates, strong skills in organization and time management.
• Proficiency with multiple technology platforms including but limited to MS Office, Google Suite, WordPress, and Jira.
• Strong oral, written, and interpersonal communications skills.
• Ability to communicate with multiple stakeholders including state-level partners and funders.
• Skills in data analytics, data presentation, and data reporting.
• Problem solving and critical thinking skills.
• An understanding of data interpretation.
• Project planning skills.
• Data quality management skills.
• Documenting and implementing project requirements, timelines, and deliverables; and website skills including creating, managing, and maintaining website content.

Physical Requirements 

• High-speed internet: attend virtual meetings as required.

• Bachelor's Degree in early childhood or related field.
• Five (5) years of related experience.

• Master’s Degree in early childhood or related field.
• At least 5 years' experience working in early childhood.

Classified Title: Program Quality Specialist II 
Job Posting Title (Working Tit