Coordinates program/policy planning, development, implementation and monitoring for a statewide program, program initiative, or project; Leads project teams or participates in program development, implementation, and monitoring activities; Develops budget estimates and performs cost benefit analyses; Analyzes and evaluates existing and proposed programs/policies to determine feasibility and impact on quality of service; Conducts trends analysis and quantitative analysis regarding program operations and fiscal issues; Develops requests for proposals, selects or participates in the selection of vendors, develops contracts, monitors contracts and approves payments; Develops spending plans for contracted services; Negotiates with federal officials and develops waivers of federal regulations for state public assistance and health care initiatives; Negotiates with outside legal representatives and responds to challenges of programs criteria; Analyzes federal and state statutes, regulations, etc. for program impact; Coordinates activities of project or program staff to meet program goals and project deadlines; Prepares comprehensive reports on the status of planning and program development efforts; Acts as liaison with state, federal and community agencies regarding assigned programs/projects to ensure service delivery and provide problem resolution; Provides technical assistance to field staff; May draft legislative proposals for agency program initiatives; May prepare draft regulations and coordinate regulations review process for assigned program areas; May conduct public hearings regarding proposed policy changes; May testify before legislative committees regarding agency or legislative program initiatives; May provide support to regional/central office operations by translating program requirements into data system specifications and testing and releasing changes in operating systems based on changes; May provide support and technical assistance to system users including training in new procedures; Performs related duties as required. NOTE: For state employees this experience is interpreted at the level of a(n) Eligibility Services Specialist, Social Services Lead Investigator, Social Services Program Assistance Specialist, Fair Hearings Officer, Quality Control Reviewer or Social Worker.