Knowledge Manager - KPERS

The Kansas Public Employees Retirement System (KPERS) is located in Topeka, Kansas. We offer hybrid remote work schedules. Employees in this position are required to work onsite at least two days each week.

KPERS is not just about pensions – we are about people! We provide disability and death benefits to protect public employees while they are still working and guarantees them lifetime benefits when they retire. Our membership includes people from all walks of life in a variety of jobs with one thing in common - serving Kansans.

We are looking for a creative and innovative Knowledge Manager to facilitate information and knowledge sharing throughout the organization. The Knowledge Manager will join the KPERS Pension Administration System (PAS) Modernization Team to pioneer a new function at KPERS:  the strategic distribution, deployment and storage of organizational knowledge.  The Knowledge Manager will focus initially on Standard Operating Procedures and related training for the new Pension Administration System.

Essential Responsibilities

Design and implement a knowledge management framework. This will include developing processes and protocols for storing information, making information accessible, and capturing new information.

Create and maintain a centralized knowledge base that stores and organizes information for access by internal staff and external partners as appropriate.

Create and maintain searchable resources to improve access to information. 

Collaborate with closely-aligned divisions (Communications and Training) to ensure information reflects KPERS' brand and training strategies.

Collaborate with all divisions to ensure knowledge supports end-user needs.

Collaborate with Security and Information Technology staff to ensure appropriate access rights and tool choices.

Promote a culture of knowledge sharing that focuses on expertise, training and communication.

Foster knowledge sharing and accountability by facilitating business process management (BPM) across the organization.

Train and support employees in the use of a centralized knowledge base.

Ensure application of knowledge through regular interviews with users, metrics, and report to the Executive team.

Maintain and capture new knowledge for the pension administration system, division and department processes, data governance and more.

Respond to feedback and engage in continuous improvement of knowledge bases.

Perform other duties and special projects as assigned to meet the Retirement System's  objectives.

Education Required

Bachelor's degree in library science, information science, business administration or a closely related field from an accredited college or university.  An advanced degree is preferred.  Experience may be substituted for education as determined relevant by the agency.

Experience Required

Three years of previous knowledge management experience is required. Certification from the KM Institute or similar organization is preferred. Education may be substituted for experience as determined relevant by the agency.

Skills and Abilities

• Deep knowledge of industry knowledge management tools such as Document Management Systems, Content Management Systems and Wikis.
• Experience with Confluence and the Microsoft Office Suite, including SharePoint and Visio preferred.
• Effective, concise, and clear oral and written communication skills.
• Experience in content management including categorization, tagging and metadata management.
• Experience in knowledge audits and needs assessments to identify knowledge gaps and develop targeted knowledge management initiatives.
• Advanced group facilitation and team building capabilities.
• Ability to elicit cooperation from a wide variety of sources, including senior management, external partners and staff from each division.
• Ability to effectively communicate with diverse audiences including agency staff, senior management, and other stakeholders.
• Ability to explain complex information to others in an understandable manner.
• Ability to “roll up” information for an executive audience.
• Ability to work effectively within a team and to maintain positive working relationships with a diverse group of people.
• Excellent work ethic.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Commitment to excellent customer service.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The State of Kansas is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity, equity, and inclusion as essential elements that create and foster a welcoming workplace. All qualified persons will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, political affiliation, disability or any other factor unrelated to the essential functions of the job.

How to Claim Disability Hiring Preference

Applicants that have physical, cognitive and/or mental disabilities may claim an employment preference when applying for positions. If they are qualified to meet the performance standards of the position, with or without a reasonable accommodation, they will receive an interview for the position. The preference does not guarantee an applicant the job, as positions are filled with the best qualified candidate as determined by the hiring manager.

Learn more about claiming Disability Hiring Preference on the Kansas Department of Administration website.

How to Claim Veterans Preference

Former military personnel or their spouse that have been verified as a "veteran"; under K.S.A. 73-201 will receive an interview if they meet the minimum competency factors of the position. The veterans' preference laws do not guarantee the veteran a job. Positions are filled with the best qualified candidate as determine by the hiring manager.

Learn more about claiming Veteran's Preference Learn on the Kansas Department of Administration website.