PROGRAM ASSISTANT ECONOMIC ASSISTANCE
Program Assistant Economic Assistance is a competitive state title, the kind you test for: the exam result, not a hiring manager's pick, decides where you land in line.
You can qualify with a bachelor's degree or, if you do not have one, by piling up more experience instead. Pay on the FY2026 schedule runs $77,144 to $113,264.
How to apply
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Exam
This is an application to sit an exam and be placed on an eligible list for this title, not an application for a specific job. A $35 application fee applies to Non-Public-Safety announcements issued on or after 2026-02-01. There may be no current vacancy behind it, and the list it produces may not be certified for months or years.
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Exam
Open to permanent employees in the competitive division who hold a qualifying lower title in the same unit. A $35 application fee applies to Non-Public-Safety announcements issued on or after 2026-02-01. Like the open competitive exam, this places you on a list; it is not itself a job offer.
Official job specification
The text below is the official specification published by the New Jersey Civil Service Commission. The plain-language summary and analysis above are derived from it by NJ Civil Service Navigator.
Definition
Under the supervision of a supervisory official in the Department of Human Services, takes the lead and researches, prepares and coordinates the development and publication of printed educational and other informational materials for public assistance clients and the general public; prepares recommendations for the development of interpretive and instructional material relative to the programs of the Division; does other related duties as required.
Examples of work
Prepares recommendations for development of interpretive and instructional material relative to programs of the Division. Plans and develops special material interpreting welfare policy and regulations for public assistance clientele and the public, including preparation of explanatory pamphlets, posters, and brochures. Prepares press releases and radio announcements which have the dual purpose of informing the public of the activities of this Division and advising clients of specific changes in programs and services. Prepares informational material on New Jersey public assistance programs for use by public interest groups; acts as liaison with such groups. Takes the lead in planning and preparing detailed correspondence in response to public inquiries about New Jersey's public assistance programs. Acts as a liaison with the Commissioner's Office of Public Information in the undertaking of special public education projects. Drafts written correspondence to address all incorrect media statements pertaining to activities and programs of the Division. Prepares special written reports and projects such as the annual report, the Client Newsletter and County Welfare Board Member Handbook. Acts as chairperson of the DPW-CWA-MWD Public Information Committee. Prepares minutes of the bi-monthly meeting with the County Welfare Agency Directors. Prepares comprehensive annual reports on the various program activities of the Division during each fiscal year. Maintains essential files and records. Will be required to learn how to utilize various types of electronic and/or manual recording and information systems used by the agency, office, or related units.
License
Appointee will be required to possess a driver's license valid in New Jersey only if the operation of a vehicle, rather than employee mobility, is necessary to perform the essential duties of the position.
Knowledge, skills and abilities
Knowledge of the principles and techniques involved with the use of varied modern media. Knowledge of modern techniques and procedures used in publication. Knowledge of current print and broadcast procedures and practices. Knowledge of standard graphic, type and printing procedures. Knowledge of topical and/or controversial public assistance issues. Ability to acquire knowledge of the overall administrative structures and goals of the State's public assistance system. Ability to understand the concepts, objectives, standards, procedures and methods of State income maintenance programs. Ability to understand the laws, rules and regulations, governing New Jersey's public assistance programs. Ability to present complex policies and procedures in clear concise, and accurate statements. Ability to gather information from diverse sources for the preparation of concise and accurate materials. Ability to analyze problem areas regarding explanatory material prepared for the welfare client, to develop tentative plans for the improvement of material, and to recommend effective changes in format as necessary. Ability to devise appropriate work plans and procedures. Ability to work harmoniously with superior officers and others interested in or concerned with the programs, services, and activities of the Division of Public Welfare and to establish and maintain cooperative relationships with CWAs, MWDs, and other agencies. Ability to attend and participate in professional conferences and meetings, to act as a representative of the Division, and to make clear, meaningful reports of such meetings when so assigned. Ability to plan, write, and coordinate the production of pamphlets, reports, and other publications relating to the programs of the Division. Ability to prepare correspondence concerning the programs, services, and activities of the Division. Ability to prepare clear, sound, accurate, and informative reports containing findings, conclusions, and recommendations. Ability to establish and maintain essential records and files. Ability to learn how to utilize various types of electronic and/or manual recording and information systems used by the agency, office, or related units. Ability to read, write, speak, understand, and communicate in English sufficiently to perform the duties of this position. American Sign Language or braille may also be considered as acceptable forms of communication. Persons with mental or physical disabilities are eligible if they can perform the essential functions of the job after reasonable accommodation. If the accommodation cannot be made because it would cause the employer undue hardship, such persons may not be eligible.
Note
The examples of work for this title are for illustrative purposes only. A position using this title may not perform all duties listed in this job specification. Conversely, all duties performed on the job may not be listed. Applicants must meet one of the following or a combination of both experience and education. Thirty (30) semester hour credits are equal to one (1) year of relevant experience. Seven (7) years of professional experience in technical writing, one (1) year of which includes the development and production of pamphlets or other printed educational materials. OR Possession of a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university; and three (3) years of the above-mentioned professional experience, one (1) year of which includes the development and production of pamphlets or other printed educational materials. "Professional experience" refers to work that is creative, analytical, evaluative, and interpretive; requires a range and depth of specialized knowledge of the profession's principles, concepts, theories, and practices; and is performed with the authority to act according to one's own judgement and make accurate and informed decisions.