Management Development Associate Program

In 2005, the City of Dallas created the Management Development Associate (MDA) Program for graduates of Masters programs in public administration or business administration who are interested in local government management as a career. This two-year program is designed to attract, develop and retain talented and diverse individuals to serve the citizens of Dallas.

Program Description

Each MDA has the opportunity to work in various departments of the City.  Each rotation will provide participants with a broad perspective of City services and activities.  At a minimum each MDA will rotate twice during their tenure in the program.  The work and responsibilities of MDAs will vary based on the department in which they are located, but will primarily consist of project management, research and program analysis, budgeting and customer service.  Examples of past MDA projects include restructuring the computer acquisition and inventory process, streamlining the city agenda process, analyzing the 911 call center, and evaluating and restructuring the delivery of uniforms to city employees. 

All participants of the program will be employees of the City Manager’s Office and will have the opportunity to learn under experienced local government professionals, including the City Manager and Assistant City Managers.  In addition to the regular duties of the department to which they are assigned, MDAs will have the opportunity to attend City Council meetings, senior staff meetings, and monthly educational or professional development events.

The salary for an MDA is $45,000 plus a comprehensive benefits package.  Participants of the program are full time employees of the City and will be treated as such with regard to merit pay increases and any other incentive programs currently available. While there is no guarantee of employment with the City upon completion of the program, historically MDAs have been highly recruited for management positions by the various departments in the City.