Assistant Administrator of Special Education & Director-IDEA Part B (Administrator)
Lincoln
Thursday, 23 April 2026
What will you enjoy most about this work? Here’s what the team says!“We have a true ability to make an impact in the most vulnerable student population, and the ability to influence education across the state of Nebraska. We foster a very inclusive work environment and work with people with very diverse backgrounds.”Doesn’t that sound fulfilling? Join our team as an Assistant Administrator for the Office of Special Education and Director of IDEA Part B to provide strategic leadership and guidance for the office aligned with the State Board’s strategic priorities. The Office of Special Education is looking for a team-oriented individual with high accountability and integrity, with a focus on customers. Currently on a contract? Don’t worry! We’ll wait for the right candidate to be released from their contract. - - The Nebraska Department of Education does not sponsor or transfer non-immigrant work visas for these positions. - - Office Location: This position is assigned to our office located at 84th & O St, Lincoln, NE. Pay Grade 12: $92,834.59/year ($93,995.02/year after pay structure increases on June 29, 2026)This rate is based upon available budget funds; any offer will be made at this rate. Teammates Enjoy. In addition to being part of meaningful work and making a difference through public service, our Total Compensation package includes an approximate $33,700 in additional Benefits value! See full benefits information at Competitive benefits, paid time off, and retirement 79% employer-paid health insurance, dental, vision, long and short-term disability, flex spending and health savings accounts, employee discount program, and more! Generous vacation and sick leave earnings each year (starting at 12 days each!), plus a variety of other leave types 156% state-matched retirement for state plans, or 101% state-matched retirement for school plans. Thirteen paid holidays per year. Essential Functions. Assists the Senior Administrator of the Office of Special Education with establishing the overall vision, goals, and implementation activities of the Office of Special Education. Collaborates to develop the State Performance Plan, Annual Performance Report, and State Systemic Improvement Plan. Conducts research and provides vision for implementing evidence-based strategies in Nebraska. Provides leadership, consultation, and technical assistance for sections and programs related to Special Education law and emerging issues or programs to school districts, the Board of Education, and the public. Participates in the implementation and ongoing review of the Nebraska Department of Education 92 NAC 51 (Rule 51) through contributing to the annual evaluation and refinement process and providing guidance on the rule’s requirements and application. Directs the Special Education team in development of annual data collection, analysis, and calculation for disproportionate representation. Notifies and provides support to school districts. Supports the Special Education State Complaint Investigation System by training complaint investigators, contributing to analysis and identification of issues and documentation, and reviewing the Findings of Fact and Letters of Finding prior to dissemination. Collaborates with other NDE staff to develop and deliver professional development opportunities for secondary and postsecondary career education instructors, school providers, and administrators to ensure development of future ready special education educators. Works collaboratively to complete annual and biennial budgets, and ensures the budget reflects major projects and initiatives, operational requirements, and changes in state and/or federal regulations. Provides leadership in the hiring, supervision, and potential discipline of staff. Conducts performance management activities including establishing annual goals related to the strategic plan, holding check-in meetings to discuss goal progress, and completing performance appraisals. Facilitates a continuous learning environment by promoting professional development to ensure all employees have the opportunity and skills to be efficient and effective in meeting the goals of the agency. Delegates work and projects appropriately among staff. Maintains regular & reliable attendance, possesses a valid driver’s license and travels independently, and works in a variety of settings. Working Conditions and Travel:This position requires approximately 80% of work time spent in an office environment; the remaining 20% is spent traveling or working in alternative sites such as schools, educational service units, and other service agencies. There is also approximately five days of overnight travel per month. Requirements / Qualifications. Minimum Qualifications: Master’s degree in the field of education or related subject area, five years of experience related to the essential functions of the position to include leadership and/or managerial experience and pre. K-12 teaching or school administration experience in an approved or accredited Nebraska school, or equivalent teaching or school administration experience in another state or country, and eligible for/possess a current Nebraska Teaching or Administrative Certificate per §79-807. NOTE: A Nebraska Teaching or Administrative Certificate per 92 NAC 21 must be possessed by the time the candidate begins employment at the Nebraska Department of Education and an active certificate maintained while in the position. Substitution: Bachelor’s degree in education or equivalent Master of Arts in Teaching per 92 NAC 21, seven years of experience related to the essential functions of the position to include leadership and/or managerial experience and pre. K-12 teaching or school administration experience in an approved or accredited Nebraska school, or equivalent teaching or school administration experience in another state or country, and eligible for/possess a current Nebraska Teaching or Administrative Certificate per §79-807. Preferred Qualifications: Six-Year Specialist Certificate and at least three years of successful experience as a Special Education Director in a pre. K-12 public school. This position is federally funded and may be governed by the Federal Hatch Act. Click here to review the Act. If you have any questions about this posting or working at NDE, please email us at nde.hrjobpostings@nebraska.gov.