State Director - Montana/Dakotas

Position Overview

This role is based within the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) under the Department of the Interior and reports directly to the Deputy Director for Administration and Programs. The State Director acts as the principal regional representative of the BLM Director, overseeing broad management duties and directing all statewide activities in line with national and departmental policies.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead statewide programs to achieve economic and social goals while ensuring prudent conservation and protection of natural resources.
• Recommend modifications or new initiatives regarding national policies and programs to senior BLM leadership.
• Provide executive leadership and direction for all BLM operations within the designated state(s), aligning with federal objectives and administrative goals.
• Serve as the primary point of contact at the state level, conducting meaningful tribal consultations and fulfilling statutory obligations.
• Promote public awareness of BLM programs and coordinate effectively with federal, state, local agencies, private landowners, corporations, special interest groups, and individuals.
• Lead and support automation and modernization efforts within the state program to optimize operational efficiencies.
• Design, implement, and manage resource, technical, and administrative programs in accordance with national policies and delegated authorities.

Qualifications & Requirements

• U.S. citizenship and successful completion of background checks and suitability investigations.
• Compliance with Selective Service Registration for males and adherence to drug screening protocols.
• New Senior Executive Service (SES) appointees must complete a one-year probation.
• Mandatory public financial disclosures within 30 days of appointment.
• Approval from the Department and participation in OPM-led Executive Core Qualifications (ECQ) structured interviews for initial SES appointments.
• Submission of a concise two-page resume detailing Executive Core Qualifications and two Technical Qualifications:
• Technical Qualification 1: Leadership in complex statewide public land and resource management, balancing conservation, development, and diverse stakeholder interests.
• Technical Qualification 2: Skill in strategic planning, policy implementation, resolving sensitive land-use matters, and collaborating with multiple governmental and public entities.
• Demonstrated ECQs include commitment to the rule of law, driving operational efficiencies, merit and competence, leading people effectively, and achieving results aligned with organizational goals.
• Relevant experience typically at GS-15 level or private sector equivalent.
• No formal educational requirements specified.

Additional Notes

• Selected SES candidates may be subject to reassignment across various locations, organizations, or functional areas.
• Appointments are influenced by current salary and other considerations with OPM approval required for political appointees within five years.
• The position offers comprehensive federal benefits depending on employment status.