What are the responsibilities and job description for the Policy Initiatives Director position at State of Wisconsin - Corrections?
Introduction
The Department of Corrections is focused on public safety through the custody and supervision of those in our care. Corrections employees have the opportunity to positively impact the lives of others through careers in a variety of fields. Using evidence-based approaches, employees implement lasting change with a positive impact for the people of Wisconsin.
The Department of Corrections is currently recruiting to fill an Policy Initiatives Advisor- Administrative (Policy Initiatives Director) position, located at Central Office in Madison, Wisconsin.
Position Summary
This position has the authority to direct and monitor the work of staff across the division to develop major policy initiatives and is a member of the division’s executive leadership team. Examples of major initiatives include corrections reform, normative practices, continuous improvement reviews, as this position will be responsible to move division-wide efforts towards achieving operational excellence. This position works closely with DAI leadership and key policy makers to include the Secretary’s Office, division administrators, policy and budget staff, and communications staff as needed to advise on and guide activities to achieve goals. This position seeks to ensure performance-based measurement and assessment of programs and initiatives with consideration of the operational and financial impacts on the division and department.
Salary Information
This position is in pay schedule and range 81-02 with a starting annual pay of $68723 to $113318, plus excellent benefits. Pay will be set in accordance with the Compensation Plan and Wisconsin Administrative Code in effect at the time of hire. A two year career executive trial period is required.
- Substantial leave time including at least 3.5 weeks of vacation to start, 9 paid holidays, and ample accrued sick time that rolls over each year.
- Insurance: Excellent and affordable health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
- An exceptional pension plan including a lifetime retirement payment.
- An optional tax-advantaged 457 retirement savings plan.
- The Well Wisconsin Program helps participants set health and well-being goals, track progress, stay motivated, and earn incentives.
- Our Employee Assistance Program offers employees and their immediate family a variety of tools, resources, and professional consultation services to support their health, goals, and overall well-being.
- DOC is a qualifying employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.
- Please click here for a summary of State of Wisconsin employment benefits or click here to explore employment benefits on the website.
Job Details
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States (i.e. a citizen or national of the U.S., a lawful permanent resident, or an alien authorized to work in the U.S. without DOC sponsorship) at the time of application.
The Department of Corrections may conduct pre-employment drug screens. Any applicant who is offered employment in a position which requires a pre-employment drug screen must pass the screen as a contingency of employment.
Qualifications
Minimally qualified applicants will have experience:
- Developing and implementing policies, procedures, and processes;
- Evaluating projects/initiatives/programs and implementing change/improvements
- Conducting research and data analysis to identify and create initiatives aligning with strategic goals
- Coordinating with, and/or working on, various workgroups and/or project teams
In addition to the above, well qualified applicant will have experience:
- Developing strategic communications involving new program initiatives.
- Leading cross-divisional and/or cross-agency workgroups or project teams.
- Providing executive level presentations and briefings
How To Apply
To apply, click on “Apply for Job” to start the application process. Follow the steps outlined in the application process and submit your application. Your resume and letter of qualifications should detail your training and experience specifically related to the qualifications section listed in the job posting and are limited to a maximum of 2 pages each.
The Department of Corrections has created extra guidance to assist you in developing your resume and letter of qualifications, if interested please click here. Submitted materials will be evaluated by a panel of job experts and the most qualified applicants will be invited to participate in the next step of the selection process.
Permanent classified employees who are eligible for consideration as a transfer or voluntary demotion must complete the application process in order to be considered.
Applicants who have Career Executive status in the Wisconsin classified state service, submit a current resume and letter of qualifications to Jordan.Hampton@wisconsin.gov and submit an application.
Questions can be directed to Jordan Hampton at Jordan.Hampton@wisconsin.gov
Deadline to Apply
Online application and materials must be submitted by 11:59 pm on Sunday November 2, 2026.
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Benefits:
Vacation & Paid Time Off, Retirement Plan, Health InsuranceSalary : $68,723 - $113,318