Program Specialist III

Job Title

The individual selected for this position will work for the Mississippi Department of Employment Security (MDES) at the MDES State Office and the surrounding areas. Participate in business engagement to educate business, industry, workforce stakeholders, economic developers, job seekers, and others throughout the Jackson Metro, South Central, and Twin Districts workforce areas about the usefulness of tools, technology, and services available through MDES for helping community members find employment. Will assist customers with barriers to employment, including students and returning citizens. Will assist companies and employees with Rapid Response events as needed and will also assist WIN Job Centers with local job fair events and other projects as necessary. Continually improve and increase the number of business engagement contacts using MS Works and the MS Works App. Will meet in-person, by phone and virtually with customers. Will assist with job fairs and special projects as needed. Compile data and reports as required. Must be available to work in a public location that provides in-person service to customers. The position will require a significant amount of daily statewide travel, overnight travel and non-traditional working hours. Non-traditional working hours may be required to attend meetings, conferences, etc. Public speaking is also required.

What You'll Need To Be Successful

Good interpersonal / customer service skills, good verbal / written communication skills, and time management and organizational skills. Outstanding computer skills that include proficiency with internet-based applications and email are required.

Preferred Qualifications

Typically requires a Bachelor's degree and 2-4 years of experience. Agency preferred qualifications : Bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college or university and four (4) years of experience related to the described duties. All applicants must have a valid driver's license and pass an extensive background check.

Salary : $43,509.31 - $65,329.23 Annually

Location : 25 - HINDS COUNTY, MS

Job Type : Full-Time

Job Number : 9062-0671-20260123H

Department : 0671 - EMPLOYMENT SECURITY

Opening Date : 01 / 29 / 2026

Closing Date : 2 / 4 / 2026 at 11 : 59 PM Central Time (US & Canada)

Agency Minimum Salary : $43,509.31

Agency Maximum Salary : $65,329.23

About the Agency : The goal of the Mississippi Department of Employment Security is to help Mississippians get jobs. Through our network of WIN Job Centers, MDES matches qualified, prospective employees with employers. Also at Job Centers, Mississippians can obtain job training to sharpen their work skills and make themselves more competitive in the job market. The mission statement for the Mississippi Department of Employment Security is "Helping Mississippians Get Jobs."

Contact : HumanCapital@mdes.ms.gov

Phone : 601-321-6000