Driver Services Asst Director - Job ID 89934

Job Description

Job Description

Job Summary

The Driver Services (DS) Assistant Director is responsible for supporting the DS Director in managing key program areas and serving in the DS Director’s capacity in their absence. This position oversees daily operations, ensures regulatory compliance, and leads legislative implementation across three core programs:

• Driver Exams – Operates statewide exam stations for passenger, motorcycle, and commercial driver testing.
• Driver Compliance – Manages programs that uphold driver safety and legal standards, including investigations, fines, and improvement initiatives.
• Credential Issuance – Verifies that credential applications meet federal and state requirements, ensuring the integrity of Minnesota’s driver credentials.

The Assistant Director also contributes to strategic planning, policy development, and budget oversight. This position fosters collaboration with internal teams and external partners, balancing service delivery with regulatory accountability. Close coordination with agency leadership and technology teams is essential to drive innovation and operational excellence.

*Employees may telework up to 50%, depending on the position and the needs of division.

The Department of Public Safety is unable to provide sponsorship for work visas. Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States at the start of employment. DPS does not participate in E-Verify

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

To be considered for this position, applicants must demonstrate:

• Three (3) years of proven leadership and supervisory experience managing operational teams and direct reports
• At least one (1) year in a professional or managerial role with demonstrated ability to motivate and inspire employees, delegate tasks effectively, and manage conflict
• Experience interpreting and applying state and federal laws, rules, and regulations related to driver and vehicle services
• Background in regulatory compliance, audit participation, and legislative implementation
• Ability to work cooperatively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and underserved communities

Management experience must include:

• Coaching and mentoring supervisors and managers
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills across all organizational levels
• Building and maintaining positive relationships with internal and external customers

*A bachelor’s degree or higher in Business, Management, Organizational Development or closely related field may substitute for one year of required experience

Preferred Qualifications

• Strategic planning experience translating agency goals into tactical plans
• Experience collaborating with MN.IT, other state agencies, and external partners such as AAMVA
• Advanced analytical skills in policy development, performance tracking, and compliance strategy
• Demonstrated success in process improvement, standardization, and change management initiatives
• Prior experience in public sector operations, especially in transportation or public safety
• Familiarity with union contracts and labor relations in a government setting
• Knowledge of industry best practices, trends and emerging technologies

Physical Requirements

Very Light: Requires occasionally moving and transporting such articles as file folders and small tools. May need to maintain a stationary position for long periods of time while carrying out job duties.

Additional Requirements

This position requires successful completion of the following:

It is the policy of the Department of Public Safety that all employees submit to a background investigation prior to employment, includes the following components:

1. Criminal history
2. Reference check
3. Fingerprinting check (MNJIS/REAL)
4. Driver's License check
5. US citizenship check
   

The Department of Public Safety is unable to provide sponsorship for work visas. Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States at the start of employment. DPS does not participate in E-Verify

Application Details

How to Apply

Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers.

Contact

If you have questions about this position, contact Dama Abuta at dama.abuta@state.mn.us or 651-201-7387.

To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Dama Abuta at dama.abuta@state.mn.us.

About Public Safety Dept

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) is a diverse, complex agency dedicated to serving communities across the state. DPS has 10 public facing and four support divisions with about 2,400 dedicated employees operating programs statewide that all have one goal: Building a safer Minnesota.

Working together to improve the state we love.

What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?

• A sense of purpose in their work
• Connection with their coworkers and communities
• Opportunities for personal and professional growth

Benefits

As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.

Your benefits may include:

• Paid vacation and sick leave
• 12 paid holidays each year
• Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans
• • Fertility care, including IVF
  • Diabetes care
  • Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children
• 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
• Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years)
• Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury
• Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care
• Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being

Support to help you reach your career goals:

• Training, classes, and professional development
• Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov)

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support:

• A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance
• Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues
• Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care

Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota.

Company DescriptionWhen you bring your career to the State of Minnesota, the work you do affects the quality of life of millions of Minnesotans. From those who shape policy, to those who keep us safe, preserve our environment, or take care of our most vulnerable populations, we take our responsibilities to the public seriously. We need diverse and talented individuals – like you – to serve our great state and build a better Minnesota.

Company Description

When you bring your career to the State of Minnesota, the work you do affects the quality of life of millions of Minnesotans. From those who shape policy, to those who keep us safe, preserve our environment, or take care of our most vulnerable populations, we take our responsibilities to the public seriously. We need diverse and talented individuals – like you – to serve our great state and build a better Minnesota.