PROJECT MANAGER (PSA, opt. 1)

POSITION SUMMARY

The Illinois Department of Central Management Services (CMS) is seeking to hire a Project Manager to manage a diverse portfolio of IT and non-IT projects, develop policies and procedures, and initiate new programs. This role is ideal for candidates looking to expand their skills in project management, business analysis, process improvement, and change management in a comprehensive and dynamic environment. The ideal candidate will possess a blend of technical and business acumen, enabling them to guide stakeholders through the complexities of IT-driven projects while addressing the strategic and operational needs of non-IT initiatives. Strong communication, problem-solving, collaboration, and organizational skills are essential. Success will involve contributing to the creation and implementation of CMS's long-term strategic plan while ensuring the successful delivery of projects from initiation to completion. This position may be located in Cook or Sangamon County. We invite all those who qualify to apply!

POSITION ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Under the general direction of the Deputy Director of Project Management, serves as project manager for the Department of Central Management Services (CMS) Project Management Office, managing large, complex projects.
• Establishes, creates, modifies, and rolls out information technology (IT) modernization and improvement projects, including projects predicated on new or updated technology and projects predicated on process and other improvements.
• Manages and responds to inquiries, requests, and other information on behalf of the Division.
• Directs special projects, frequently of a highly confidential and sensitive nature, for the Deputy Director of Project Management.
• Participates in meetings and training sessions to stay abreast of advancements in project management.
• Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Requires knowledge, skill, and mental development equivalent to completion of four years of college.

Requires prior experience equivalent to three (3) years of progressively responsible administrative experience in a public or business organization

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Prefers two (2) years of professional experience managing projects from start to completion, managing schedules and timelines.
• Prefers two (2) years of professional information technology (IT) project management experience.
• Prefers three (3) years of professional experience as a Business Analyst in creating and documenting business workflows including corresponding supporting documents such as training materials, change request forms, and detailed process plans. 
• Prefers three (3) years of professional experience optimizing processes and implementing continuous improvement initiatives in a professional environment.
• Prefers three (3) years of professional experience with change management implementation.
• Prefers two (2) years of hands-on experience with Microsoft Power Automate and/or Power Apps and familiarity with integrating Power Automate/Power Apps with other Microsoft products (e.g., SharePoint, Teams, Dynamics 365).
• Prefers extensive knowledge of workflow automation principles and best practices. Prefer Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) or Project Management Professional (PMP) certification, or other comparable project management certification. 
• Prefer two (2) or more years of proficient use of project management software such as Microsoft Project, Asana, Trello, or similar tools for creating, tracking, and managing tasks.
• Prefers extensive knowledge of generating reports utilizing word processing and spreadsheet software, such as database software, Microsoft Word, Excel, SharePoint, Microsoft Project, Google Docs, or similar to collate and present information and reports.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

• Requires completion of a background check and self-disclosure of criminal history.
• Overtime is a condition of employment, and you may be requested or required/mandated to work overtime including scheduled, unscheduled, or last-minute overtime. This requires the ability to work at various times outside of normal office hours to communicate with clients/partners in different time zones and to be on-call.
• Requires ability to travel occasionally in the performance of duties, with overnight stays as appropriate.
• Requires ability to attend seminars, conferences, and trainings to stay current on methods, tools, ideologies, or other industry related topics relevant to the job duties.
• Requires the ability to use agency technology/equipment (i.e., mobile phone, laptop, etc.) properly in accordance with information security awareness policies and confidentiality guidelines.  

The conditions of employment listed here are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in the job description.

ABOUT THE AGENCY

Central Management Services (CMS) is the operational engine working behind the scenes to enable the State's more than 60 agencies, universities, boards, and commissions to deliver efficient, reliable services to all Illinois citizens.  The Agency's mission is to support the State by delivering innovative, responsive, and effective services that provide the best value for Illinois State government and the people it serves.  Among the services CMS provides are human resources facilitation; benefits programs for employees, retirees and local governments; property and facilities management; diversity initiatives for public contracting and State employment; joint purchasing support; vehicle fleet oversight and support; surplus property programs; print and electronic communications services; and administrative hearings coordination. 

STATE OF ILLINOIS BENEFITS

As a State of Illinois employee, you receive a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Competitive Group Insurance benefits including health, life, dental and vision plans.
• Flexible work schedules (when available and dependent upon position).
• 10 -25 days of paid vacation time annually (10 days for first year of state employment).
• 12 days of paid sick time annually which carryover year to year.
• 3 paid personal business days per year.
• 13-14 paid holidays per year dependent on election years.
• 12 weeks of paid parental leave.
• Pension plan through the State Employees Retirement System.
• Deferred Compensation Program – voluntary supplemental retirement plan.
• Optional pre-tax programs -Medical Care Assistance Plan (MCAP) & Dependent Care Assistant Plan (DCAP).
• Tuition Reimbursement Program and Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program eligibility.

For more information regarding State of Illinois Benefits follow this link: https://www2.illinois.gov/cms/benefits/Pages/default.aspx

 If this opportunity appeals to you, please apply today!