Reframing the Narrative: From Achievement Gaps to Opportunity Gaps
The shift from talking about achievement gaps to opportunity gaps is critical if we want to address the root causes of inequity in our schools. Too often, the focus remains on student performance metrics without interrogating the conditions that shape those outcomes. For students in historically marginalized communities, particularly in urban centers like New York City, systemic disinvestment has long dictated the level of support they receive. When budgets are determined by enrollment numbers and property taxes, schools in lower-income neighborhoods are structurally disadvantaged from the outset. Title I funding, while necessary, often functions as a band-aid rather than a comprehensive solution to deeply rooted inequities in education systems.
Reframing the discussion allows educators, administrators, and policymakers to move from deficit thinking to a systems-based approach. Instead of asking why a student is behind, we need to ask why the system failed to provide equitable access to early childhood education, experienced teachers, and mental health services. According to the U.S. Department of Education, schools serving predominantly Black and Latino students are more likely to have less access to advanced coursework, experienced teachers, and adequate facilities compared to schools serving majority-white students¹. This inequity is not accidental - it is the product of decades of policy decisions, zoning laws, and budget formulas that favor some communities over others.
Practical Strategies for Supporting Underserved Populations
Addressing opportunity gaps requires a multi-tiered approach that starts with understanding the specific needs of local communities. One effective strategy is to conduct community asset mapping, which identifies both the challenges and the existing resources within a neighborhood. For example, a school located in a food desert may benefit from partnerships with local nonprofits to establish school-based food pantries or meal programs. Collaborations like these have been shown to reduce absenteeism and improve student concentration². Municipal governments and school districts can formalize such partnerships through memoranda of understanding that ensure sustainability beyond pilot phases.
Another practical approach is investing in wraparound services that address the non-academic barriers to learning. This includes access to counselors, social workers, and mental health professionals who understand the cultural and socioeconomic realities of the students they serve. Research from the Learning Policy Institute shows that schools with integrated student support systems have better academic outcomes, particularly for students in high-poverty areas³. By embedding these services within the school day and making them easily accessible, districts can create environments where students are more likely to succeed academically and socially.
Policy Levers to Drive Systemic Change
Municipal and state governments can use policy levers to create more equitable systems. One critical lever is funding reform. Many states continue to rely heavily on local property taxes to fund schools, which entrenches disparities between rich and poor districts. States like Massachusetts have made strides by adopting weighted student funding formulas that allocate more resources to students with greater needs, such as English language learners and those from low-income families⁴. These models can be adapted and scaled based on local context to ensure that funding is responsive to student demographics rather than zip codes.
Another important policy area is teacher recruitment and retention. Schools in underserved communities often struggle to retain experienced educators due to challenging working conditions and lower salaries. Targeted incentives such as loan forgiveness, housing stipends, and mentorship programs have shown promise in retaining high-quality teachers in high-need schools⁵. These strategies require collaboration between departments of education, housing authorities, and local government agencies, but the return on investment is significant when measured by student achievement and teacher stability.
Building Trust and Accountability with Communities
One of the most overlooked components of serving underserved populations is building trust with the communities themselves. Too often, decisions about education policy and school improvement are made without meaningful input from families and students. Participatory budgeting processes, community advisory councils, and school-based decision-making teams can help shift this dynamic. When families see that their voices impact resource allocation and program design, trust increases, and engagement follows. According to a report by the Annenberg Institute, schools that foster strong family-school partnerships see improved attendance, higher academic performance, and stronger community ties⁶.
Accountability must also be redefined. Traditional accountability models rely heavily on standardized test scores, which often fail to capture the full picture of student growth and school quality. Instead, districts should develop holistic accountability systems that include qualitative data, such as school climate surveys, student engagement metrics, and access to enrichment programs. These indicators provide a more nuanced understanding of how well schools are serving all students, not just those who perform well on tests. Shifting to such models requires political will and technical capacity, but it is essential for moving toward a more just and responsive education system.
Conclusion: A Call to Action for Practitioners
Practitioners in the public sector must recognize that underserved populations are not inherently deficient - they are systematically deprived of the resources and opportunities necessary to thrive. Every decision, from zoning regulations to school funding formulas, plays a role in either perpetuating or disrupting inequality. Those working in education, housing, health, and other intersecting sectors must coordinate their efforts to ensure that support systems are aligned and responsive to community needs.
This work requires humility, persistence, and a commitment to equity. It means listening to those most impacted by policy decisions and being willing to change course when data and community feedback indicate that a strategy is not working. By centering opportunity and focusing on system redesign rather than individual blame, municipalities and their partners can begin to close gaps that have persisted for generations. The path forward is not easy, but it is necessary - and it starts with a refusal to accept the status quo.
Bibliography
U.S. Department of Education. 2016. “The State of Racial Diversity in the Educator Workforce.” Washington, DC: Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development. https://www2.ed.gov/rschstat/eval/highered/racial-diversity/state-racial-diversity-workforce.pdf.
Gundersen, Craig, et al. 2015. “Food Insecurity and Health Outcomes.” Health Affairs 34(11): 1830-1839. https://doi.org/10.1377/hlthaff.2015.0645.
Weiss, Heather B., et al. 2014. “Integrated Student Supports: A Summary of the Evidence Base for Policymakers.” Learning Policy Institute. https://learningpolicyinstitute.org/product/integrated-student-supports-summary-evidence-base-policymakers-report.
Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. 2020. “Student Opportunity Act Implementation.” https://www.doe.mass.edu/commissioner/updates/student-opportunity-act.html.
Podolsky, Anne, et al. 2016. “Solving the Teacher Shortage: How to Attract and Retain Excellent Educators.” Learning Policy Institute. https://learningpolicyinstitute.org/product/solving-teacher-shortage-report.
Annenberg Institute for School Reform. 2013. “Building Family-School Partnerships to Improve Student Outcomes.” Brown University. https://annenberginstitute.org/publications/building-family-school-partnerships-improve-student-outcomes.
More from Underserved Populations
Explore related articles on similar topics
Top Paying Jobs in Underserved Populations
Highest paying opportunities related to this article
About The Role The Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) is seeking an executive leader to serve as the Assistant Secretary of the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA). DDA is entering a transformation phase focused on easier access to services, supporting transitions, strengthening service availability, and ensuring individuals have a greater voice and choice. The Assistant Secretary oversees a workforce of over 4,000 employees, eight direct reports, and a biennial budget of approximately $6.2 billion. Key Responsibilities - Lead DDA through its next phase, building alignment among employees and partners. - Build on community engagement culture, ensuring feedback leads to meaningful action. - Strengthen accountability, coordination, and follow-through across the administration. - Establish clear priorities and create alignment among teams, programs, and partners. - Lead with sound judgment in a 24/7 operational environment. - Strengthen relationships with legislators, federal partners, and communications leaders. - Communicate proactively about emerging issues, priorities, challenges, and opportunities. Minimum Qualifications 1. A bachelor's degree in social work, human services, business administration, public administration, health care administration, finance, or a related field is preferred but not required. 2. Executive-level experience leading directors, managers, and senior leaders across complex programs and operations is preferred. 3. Experience leading programs, systems, or organizations supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families is preferred. 4. Competencies include transformational leadership, accountability and results, community-centered leadership, strategic communication and influence, political and stakeholder acumen, collaboration and partnership, and sound judgment and decision-making. Special Requirements 1. Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history may be conducted. 2. Employees driving on state business must have a valid driver's license. 3. Employees driving a privately owned vehicle on state business must have liability insurance. 4. Must disclose any relative, household member, close friend, or romantic partner within the potential supervisory chain of command to comply with nepotism policies. Selection Process 1. Applications received by September 4th will receive priority consideration. 2. Anticipated appointment is as early as November 2026. 3. Confidential review of applications begins immediately and continues until an appointment is made. How To Apply - Submit a resume and letter of interest to Tracie.Kidd@dshs.wa.gov. - The letter of interest should highlight how experience aligns with the outlined leadership competencies and capabilities. - Persons requiring accommodation may contact the Recruiter at (360) 725-5810 or via Washington Relay Service at 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384. Employment Details - Location: Thurston County - Olympia, WA - Job Type: Full Time - Permanent - Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid - Department: Dept. of Social and Health Services - Division: DDA - Employer: State of Washington - DSHS is an equal opportunity employer.
ABOUT THE ROLE The Mayor’s Office of Homeless Services seeks an experienced Deputy Director with strong leadership and problem-solving skills, knowledgeable about Federal and State grants, regulations, processes, and the Continuum of Care (CoC) program. This position plays a critical role in promoting the mission of the agency by overseeing legislative and policy activities, building and managing relationships with elected officials, business leaders, and community partners, and supervising key leadership positions. The role reports directly to the Agency Director. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Develops and executes the agency's advocacy agenda, including legal, regulatory, and sustainability policies - Oversees managers of the Emergency Services, Programs, and Partnership & Policy teams, ensuring internal and external coordination - Serves as the point of contact for the Baltimore City Council, federal government, and Continuum of Care, representing the agency at hearings, public events, and community meetings - Develops and maintains strong working relations with elected officials, city, state, and federal agencies, service providers, and community stakeholders - Identifies and provides recommendations on organizational improvements and helps solve core problems - Oversees the grant implementation process and ensures proper allocation of funds - Oversees the preparation and administration of program budgets, develops budget recommendations, and monitors expenditures - Leads the design and coordination of innovative programming and services for persons experiencing homelessness - Develops and recommends policy in programs relating to homeless services - Participates on committees and task forces to coordinate resources, analyze data, evaluate performance, and identify program improvements - Serves as the lead contact for monitoring and audits, developing responses to findings or concerns - Oversees the planning, coordination, and implementation of complex projects - Develops and coordinates the compilation of complex narrative and statistical reports and memoranda for the Agency Director’s review and approval MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Education: Graduate from a master’s program in public policy, Business Administration, Public Administration, Management, Law, or a related field from an accredited college or university - Experience: Six years of senior management, policy-driven operational responsibilities, including three years of experience in affordable housing and homeless services - Equivalency: An equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Valid State of Maryland Driver’s License - Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) credential through the Maryland Addiction and Behavioral-Health Professionals Certification Board (MABPCB) is preferred - Knowledge of peer recovery, substance use, mental health, and recovery-oriented practices - Must successfully complete a Criminal Background Check and/or Fingerprint screening - Must complete a 6-month mandatory probation period - Required to complete a Financial Disclosure within 30 days of hire pursuant to City Ethics Law SELECTION PROCESS - This is a non-civil service position - Eligible candidates under final consideration will be required to complete authorization for a Criminal Background Check and/or Fingerprint screening HOW TO APPLY - Apply through the City of Baltimore's official application portal using job requisition ID R0019192 - Applicants requiring accommodation during the hiring process should contact the Department of Human Resources directly - Requests for accommodation should not be attached to the application EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Job Requisition ID: R0019192 - Location: 7 E Redwood St, Baltimore, MD - Time Type: Full time - Department: Mayor's Office of Homeless Services - Employer: City of Baltimore - Closing Date: November 28, 2026 - Benefits: Medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, optional life, AD&D, and FSA plans, along with wellness programs, support groups, and workshops - Equal Opportunity: Baltimore City Government is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer committed to a workplace that values diversity, equity, and inclusion, and prohibits discrimination on any protected basis
ABOUT THE ROLE The Yakima Valley School Residential Habilitation Center is hiring multiple Registered Nurses to provide compassionate and skilled care for adults with developmental disabilities in a supported living setting. You will join an interdisciplinary team dedicated to giving individuals the dignity, safety, and support they deserve, helping them live healthier and more comfortable lives. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Administer medications and treatments as prescribed (e.g., enteral feedings, respiratory therapy, skin and bowel care, IM injections) - Assess changes in condition and report concerns to doctors, nurse practitioners, or supervisors - Communicate health updates with family members, guardians, and care teams - Chart medications, treatments, and health details accurately in the Electronic Health Record (EHR) - Document, transcribe, and implement verbal and telephone physician orders - Record observations and important health updates in residents' clinical records - Assist in different units around the campus as assigned - Respond appropriately to emergency situations MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Current license to practice as a Registered Nurse in Washington State - Graduation from an accredited school of professional nursing - One year of professional nursing experience or college-level nursing education SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must specify shift preference in application (Night: 9:30 P.M. - 6:00 A.M., Swing: 1:30 P.M. - 10:00 P.M., Day: 5:30 A.M. - 2:00 P.M., or on-call) - Successful completion of a background check, including criminal record history - Valid driver's license required for state business; liability insurance required if using a privately owned vehicle - Mandatory disclosure of any relatives, household members, close friends, or romantic partners within the potential supervisory chain of command per DSHS Nepotism Policy SELECTION PROCESS - Applications will be reviewed to determine applicant suitability and competence - Background check results will be considered in the final hiring decision - This job announcement may be used to fill multiple vacancies HOW TO APPLY - Submit an application through the official State of Washington jobs portal before the closing date - Indicate your preferred shifts within the application - For questions, contact DSHS Recruiter Georgina Pringle at Georgina.Pringle@dshs.wa.gov and reference job number 2026-05918 - Closing Date: 9/30/2026 at 11:59 PM Pacific EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Location: Yakima County – Selah, WA - Department: Dept. of Social and Health Services (Division: DDA) - Job Number: 2026-05918 - Shift differentials are provided for Evening and Night shifts in addition to the standard compensation rate - Roles performed on-site at least three days a week may be eligible for an additional 5% premium pay - The State of Washington is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fairness, access, and social justice - E-Verify participating employer
ABOUT THE ROLE Perform activities and interventions that promote health, wellness, and safety for residents and staff at Echo Glen Children's Center, a Juvenile Rehabilitation maximum security residential facility. Take charge of emergency medical situations and act as a liaison between the community and residents providing professional nursing services for youth committed by the courts. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Provide professional nursing services including direct patient care such as assessment, evaluation, diagnosis, and interventions relating to medical and/or psychiatric conditions. - Perform initial medical screening for youth at intake; implement infection control, Vaccine for Children VFC, and employee health and wellness programs. - Educate and counsel youth, families, and staff regarding medical and mental health care. - Provide pre and post-HIV test counseling including STI and Making Proud Choices curriculum and prenatal education. - Provide medical case management for youth with chronic or acute conditions; communicate with and instruct non-medical agency staff on treatment and care of youth. - Prepare and file medical documents; schedule appointments; perform basic data entry and retrieval functions using an electronic management information system. - Perform medical and psychiatric case management. - Administer prescribed medications per the physician's treatment orders and monitor medication assistance. - Provide first aid and first response emergency medical services for youth, visitors, and other employees. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Valid Washington State license to practice as a registered professional nurse. - Graduation from an accredited school of professional nursing AND one year of professional nursing experience. - Ability to take action to learn and grow. - Ability to take action to meet the needs of others. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Requires at least two years of driving experience and a valid driver's license. - Supplemental shift differentials are applied for weekend hours, swing shift, and all hours worked between 6pm and 6am. - Salary does not include an additional GHS/EGCC institution 5% premium or an on-site 24/7 facility 5% premium. - Preferred qualifications include the ability to work independently with little supervision and two or more years of nursing experience. - Preferred one or more years of professional experience providing direction to staff as a lead or supervisor. - Preferred previous work experience working in a Juvenile Rehabilitation Facility. SELECTION PROCESS - Applicants selected for an interview are required to pass a criminal history and national fingerprint background check. - Must complete a questionnaire mandated by the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) inquiring about any sexual misconduct. - Must provide proof of identity and authorization to work in the United States on the first day of employment, consistent with E-Verify requirements. HOW TO APPLY - Complete and submit your applicant profile online. - The position is open until filled. - Applicants claiming Veteran's Preference must attach a copy of their DD214, NGB Form 22, or Predischarge Certification. Redact social security numbers before attaching documents. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: State of Washington - Department: Dept of Children, Youth, and Families - Division: Juvenile Rehabilitation: Echo Glen - Job Type: Various Job Types - Location: King County - Snoqualmie, WA - Opening Date: 08/05/2026 - Closing Date: Open until filled
ABOUT THE ROLE The San Francisco Adult Probation Department (SFAPD) seeks a Pretrial Linkage Coordinator to support program operations addressing socioeconomic barriers affecting clients in the pretrial process. This role coordinates, develops, monitors, and evaluates housing, public benefits, employment, and stabilization services. The position works collaboratively with SFAPD staff, City departments, community-based organizations, and other partners to reduce barriers to stability, successful pretrial participation, and compliance with court requirements, promoting public safety, accountability, and positive client outcomes. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Coordinate housing, benefits, employment, and stabilization services for clients. - Assess client needs and barriers affecting court appearances, release conditions, or overall stability. - Provide referrals, service navigation, warm handoffs, and transportation to City departments and community organizations. - Assess service gaps, fill them, and support grant management duties. - Develop and maintain partnerships and service pathways for timely access to resources. - Assist clients with public benefits (e.g., Medi-Cal, CalFresh) and essential documents. - Connect clients to employment, job readiness, vocational training, and workforce development. - Collaborate with staff, clinicians, and service providers on complex or high-need cases. - Track and analyze referrals, service engagement, barriers, and outcomes to improve service delivery. - Develop and maintain referral protocols, resource directories, workflows, and performance measures. - Support grants, contracts, procurement, and provider monitoring. - Represent SFAPD in meetings and collaborative initiatives, and prepare reports or presentations. - May supervise staff and perform related duties as assigned. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS 1. Baccalaureate degree AND three (3) years of administrative/professional experience in community development, housing, workforce development, public benefits, finance, education, social work, human services, or criminal justice; OR 2. Baccalaureate degree with a major in public/business administration, urban planning, government, social work, education, finance, human services, public policy, or criminal justice AND two (2) years of related experience; OR 3. Master's degree in public policy, planning, social work, public administration, finance, education, criminal justice, human services, or business administration AND one (1) year of related experience; OR 4. Juris Doctor degree AND one (1) year of related experience. Substitution: Verifiable administrative/professional experience in the listed fields may substitute for the educational requirement in option 1 on a year-for-year basis. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Desirable experience working with justice-involved, pretrial, reentry, homeless, or high-need populations. - Knowledge of San Francisco housing, homelessness-response, workforce development, and public-benefit systems. - Experience coordinating housing placement, benefits enrollment, or client stabilization activities. - Strong client-engagement, problem-solving, and service-navigation skills. - Experience collecting, analyzing, tracking, and presenting program and client-outcome data. - Contract monitoring, grant administration, or program evaluation experience. - Ability to work effectively across multiple systems while maintaining confidentiality and professionalism. SELECTION PROCESS The hiring process follows City and County of San Francisco guidelines, which includes application review, evaluation of minimum qualifications, conviction history review, and adherence to Equal Employment Opportunity and ADA Accommodation policies. Applicants may be contacted via email for further steps in the recruitment process. HOW TO APPLY 1. Applications are only accepted online via SmartRecruiters at https://careers.sf.gov/. 2. Select the "Apply Now" button and follow the on-screen instructions. 3. Ensure your registered email address is accurate and does not block emails from CCSF domains (e.g., @sfgov.org, @smartrecruiters.com). 4. Retain the confirmation email received after submitting your application as proof of submission. 5. For questions regarding the recruitment or application process, contact Janet MacEachern, Sr. HR Analyst, at janet.maceachern@sfgov.org. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Department: Adult Probation - Role Type: Permanent Exempt - Hours: Full-time - Union Representation: Service Employees International Union Local 1021 - Benefits: Robust health, retirement, and other benefits (see https://sfdhr.org/benefits-overview) - Additional Status: Disaster Service Worker - The City and County of San Francisco is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages applications from women, minorities, and persons with disabilities.
ABOUT THE ROLE This pivotal role leads compliance efforts with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in correctional facilities. The coordinator manages ADA policies and procedures, ensures accessibility and accommodations, and resolves ADA-related issues. The position requires a strong understanding of ADA regulations, specifically Title II and 28 CFR Part 35, alongside excellent communication, organizational, and project management skills to interact effectively with diverse stakeholders. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Act as the main contact for jail residents, staff, and external parties regarding ADA-related issues and complaints. - Handle ADA-related grievances by interviewing parties, reviewing documentation, and assessing situations for compliance. - Support staff in delivering services and evaluate requests for reasonable accommodations. - Lead and manage projects enhancing accessibility in facilities, services, and technology. - Coordinate the implementation of technology and services expanding ADA and limited English proficiency accessibility. - Analyze accessibility data and prepare reports and presentations for senior management. - Assist in developing and reviewing organizational policies to align with ADA regulations. - Collaborate with Public Health-Jail Health Services and the Facilities Management Department. - Respond to urgent and emergency ADA issues concerning accessibility and jail residents. - Develop and oversee programs promoting accessibility, conduct assessments, and facilitate inclusive training. - Serve as the department's ADA subject matter expert. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Familiarity with Title II of the ADA, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and other civil rights laws. - Experience working with individuals with disabilities and understanding the community's unique needs. - Experience conducting ADA assessments, audits, or similar evaluations. - Excellent written and verbal communication skills to interact effectively with diverse communities. - Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills to balance ADA requirements and operational constraints. - Proven ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion. - Knowledge of relevant state and federal laws. - A combination of experience and education that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must complete a thorough background investigation, including fingerprinting, criminal history check, and reference checks. - Desired: ADA Coordinator certification, understanding of correctional services, working knowledge of specific Title II regulations, and criminal justice or government experience. - Bilingual premium pay may be available for Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, Russian, or Somali proficiency. SELECTION PROCESS 1. Evaluation of application materials and supplemental questions. 2. Interviewing. 3. Assessments. HOW TO APPLY - Submit an electronic application through the King County or Government Jobs website, including detailed work history and position duties. - Attach a resume. - Attach a letter of interest detailing your background and how you meet the requirements. - Complete responses to supplemental questions. - Do not use "see my resume" in the application or supplemental questionnaires, as this will result in rejection. - Contact Jaclyn Smith at jacsmith@kingcounty.gov or 206-263-3379 for questions or accommodations. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: King County, Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention (DAJD) - Job Type: Career Service (Exec), Full Time, 40 hours per week - Work Location: Primarily on-site at multiple correctional facilities, including the King County Courthouse, with travel to DAJD sites. Limited remote work potential. - Work Schedule: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Additional varied hours and occasional after-hours calls may be required. - Union Representation: Not represented by a collective bargaining agreement. - FLSA Status: Exempt (Not eligible for overtime pay or compensatory time). - Closing Date: Continuous (First consideration for applications submitted by June 24, 2026).
ABOUT THE ROLE The Department of Social Services (DSS) comprises the Human Resources Administration (HRA) and the Department of Homeless Services (DHS). Information Technology Services (ITS) is recruiting for an IT Project Specialist to function as a Tester/Analyst. This role conducts software quality assurance testing, focusing on automation and performance testing across various systems development life cycle methodologies to ensure the quality of IT applications supporting HRA and DHS. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Conduct software quality assurance testing focusing on automation and performance testing in Waterfall, Agile, and Hybrid Agile methodologies. - Provide test coverage for all program areas and projects for HRA, DSS, and DHS, including web-based and mobile frameworks for functional automation, performance, and load testing. - Work with Product Managers, Developers, and Business Analysts to develop appropriate test approaches and strategies for product releases. - Collaborate with business units for information gathering, assessment, resource assignments, and project prioritization. - Coordinate with project team leaders from design to implementation to ensure applications are delivered with intended performance and quality. - Develop robust automation and performance test cases, plans, and conditions based on user requirements and technical design documentation. - Create accurate testing time estimates and work with other QA Analysts and developers to continually improve testing proficiency on managed applications like WMS, POS, Streamline POS, and AHRA. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS 1. A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college in computer science, engineering, human computer interaction, interactive media, digital and graphics design, data visualization, communication, or a related field, and four years of satisfactory full-time related experience with a specialization in a relevant technology, process, methodology, and/or domain; or 2. An associate degree in a related field and six years of satisfactory full-time related experience with a specialization; or 3. A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college and eight years of satisfactory full-time related experience with a specialization; or 4. Education and/or experience which is equivalent to the above. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Experience as a QA or Quality Control Manager or Senior QA Engineer in a technology/development environment. - Expert level experience advising technology professionals on industry standards and creating performance testing standards. - Admin level experience with issue tracking tools such as JIRA, QC, and ServiceNow. - Expert level experience with load/performance testing, Azure DevOps, and CRM. - Knowledge in project lifecycles and methodologies (Waterfall, Agile, Hybrid) and proven ability to lead large development projects. - Excellent interpersonal, organizational, written, and oral communication skills. - Ability to multitask and be proactive in a fast-paced environment. SELECTION PROCESS - No exam is required. - Submission of a resume is not a guarantee of an interview. HOW TO APPLY - Search and apply for Job ID #788962 through the official NYC jobs portal. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Full-Time position in the Mgmt Information System-NM department. - Work Location: 400 8th Ave., Manhattan, NY. - Hours/Shift: Monday through Friday, 9:00am to 5:00pm. - New York City residency is not required for this position. - Eligible for federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) programs. - Job ID: 788962. - Posted until: 09/28/2026. - Title Code: 95710. - Classification: Non-Competitive-5, Experienced (Non-Manager).
ABOUT THE ROLE The Department of Social Services (DSS) Information Technology Services (ITS) supports the Human Resources Administration and Department of Homeless Services. ITS is recruiting a Middleware Developer to develop, integrate, test, deploy, and support middleware applications for agency programs using object-oriented techniques and industry standards. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Develop, integrate, test, deploy, and support middleware applications using JAVA, IBM ESQL, IBM Integration Toolkit, IBM MQ Explorer, and Oracle SQL Developer. - Run performance analysis, design, document, review, and validate software requirements and technical specifications using tools like Atlassian Jira and Confluence. - Manage effective communication of tasks and project status to the development team, management, and stakeholders. - Perform development, maintenance, and support for databases and information systems on middleware environments. - Prepare and identify technical tasks, delivery timelines, and project risks with the project team. - Provide technical expertise and support to end-users and document trouble tickets in the IT service management system. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS 1. A baccalaureate degree in computer science, engineering, HCI, interactive media, digital/graphic design, data visualization, communication, or a related field, plus four years of satisfactory full-time experience with a specialization in a relevant technology or domain. 2. An associate degree in a related field plus six years of satisfactory full-time experience with a specialization. 3. A baccalaureate degree in any field plus eight years of satisfactory full-time experience with a specialization. 4. Education and/or experience which is equivalent to 1, 2, or 3 above. PREFERRED SKILLS - Hands-on development experience with IBM App Connect Enterprise (ACE), including message flows, YAML configuration, ESQL, and Compute/Java nodes. - Strong experience with IBM MQ and messaging architecture. - Proven experience migrating integrations from IBM Integration Bus (IIB) to IBM App Connect Enterprise (ACE). - Solid understanding of RESTful and SOAP web services, XML/JSON transformations, and API-based integration patterns. - Working knowledge of IBM DataPower and/or IBM API Connect. - Proficiency in Oracle SQL and developing database-backed integration services. - Experience using Azure DevOps, ServiceNow, and other ITSM tools with structured SDLC practices. - Excellent technical documentation skills. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS No exam is required for this position. The title classification is Non-Competitive-5. SELECTION PROCESS No exam required. Only those candidates under consideration will be contacted. HOW TO APPLY Search for Job ID #788912 on the NYC jobs portal. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Job Type: Full-Time - Department: Mgmt Information System-NM - Category: Technology, Data & Innovation - Location: 400 8th Ave., Manhattan, N.Y. - Experience Level: Experienced (Non-Manager) - Hours/Shift: 9:00am - 5:00pm - Residency: New York City residency is not required. - Benefits: Eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF). - The City of New York is an inclusive equal opportunity employer.