MCAS and ACCESS Test Administration Specialist (ESC)

The Education Secretariat is committed to equity and valuing the unique and diverse characteristics and experiences of every member of its workforce. We encourage an authentic workplace where colleagues show up as their full selves, where collaboration, innovation, and connections are key to realizing our mission that all children, youth, and families thrive socially, academically, and economically. We seek teammates who are committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive work environment, where everyone is valued and engaged. We encourage you to apply and identify your strengths in these areas.

The MCAS and ACCESS Test Administration Specialist for SAS will support the implementation and administration of computer-based testing programs (including MCAS and ACCESS for ELLs) and also facilitate ongoing project management and outcomes for SAS programs and initiatives, as follows:

Act as primary liaison between DESE and the testing contractor regarding computer-based testing systems and other technology solutions for MCAS, including technical specifications;

Manage technology requests from DESE and incorporate them into the contractor's development cycle;

Monitor testing systems before and during test administrations to ensure full knowledge of any major or recurring issues affecting the field;

Develop training materials and deliver training to DESE staff prior to test administration and provide ongoing support as needed;

Assist with training schools and districts, including in developing slides and related materials, presenting in virtual and face-to-face trainings, and providing hands-on training to schools and districts requiring additional experience prior to test administration;

Provide customer service and technical support to schools and districts, particularly during the high-volume period around test administration;

Work with the leadership team and other staff members to ensure continuity in procedures across the unit;

Work with the Associate Commissioner for Student Assessment on special projects as needed (e.g., surveys, document management, presentations, special communications);

Provide ongoing assistance and support for SAS initiatives by participating in SAS planning activities, conducting research, analyzing information, preparing reports, providing recommendations, coordinating completion of pending matters, and monitoring project goals and timelines;

Conduct certain tasks in the online test management system as needed;

Facilitate the drafting, writing, and editing of a wide variety of communications and documents related to SAS initiatives and programs, including the bi-weekly Student Assessment Update, letters, reports, presentations, etc.;

Review manuals and other documentation and provide input on language related to MCAS computer-based testing systems and technology;

Maintain current knowledge and awareness of all SAS ongoing projects and assessments, including the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS), the MCAS Alternate Assessment (MCAS-Alt), and ACCESS for ELLs (WIDA), and provide accurate technical assistance and communication to internal and external customers;

Collaborate with Department staff, WIDA, and its subcontractors to provide web-based training on implementing and delivering ACCESS for ELLs computer-based tests;

Prepare schools and districts to administer online testing, provide technical assistance during administration, and assist with data upload and clean-up;

Collaborate with others in SAS and participate in regular meetings and conference calls as needed; and

Perform related work as required.

Preferred Qualifications:

experience in public policy, education, assessment, or similar setting;

experience in managing technical applications;

knowledge of MCAS and/or large-scale testing programs;

superior written communication skills, including excellence in writing, editing, and proofreading, particularly with memoranda, presentations, technical documentation, etc., for both internal and external groups;

superior oral communication and presentation skills, including expressing oneself knowledgably, clearly, and positively, and working to build consensus at times;

knowledge of computer-based testing interfaces and configurations;

experience providing virtual and face-to-face trainings to internal and external audiences of various sizes;

ability to work with internal and external groups including contractors and advisory groups;

ability to synthesize and present information in a clear, concise manner;

ability to multitask, manage multiple projects and schedules, set priorities and work efficiently while meeting deadlines;

ability to follow and give written and oral instructions in a precise and understandable manner; strong organizational and critical thinking skills;

intermediate to advanced skills in Microsoft office products, including Excel and PowerPoint; with knowledge of other software products such as Acrobat;

strong attention to detail and commitment to quality and accuracy; and

ability to handle sensitive information.

Travel may be required for this position.

Questions regarding this position or the application process should be directed to Dawn.E.DeRoche@mass.gov.

Qualifications:First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days.Minimum Entrance Requirements:

Applicants must have a Bachelor's degree and at least four years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, professional educational experience in a specific or related content area, educational program/or service;

a Master's degree or higher in a specific or related educational content area may be substituted for two years of the required experience -- 30 semester hours equals one year of experience for substitution purposes..

Special Requirements: Based on assignment, possession of a current and valid Massachusetts Class D Motor Vehicle Operator's License or the equivalent from another state may be required.

Comprehensive Benefits

When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.

Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!

An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.