County Social Service Director

$102,462.71 - $130,639.96 Starting salary based on qualifications and experience. Job Description General Statement of Duties This position serves as the administrative officer of the Department of Social Services and assumes the duties and responsibilities as assigned in the General Statutes of North Carolina. Distinguishing Features of the Class Duties include directing managers/supervisors, professional, paraprofessional, and support staff in the delivery of agency services, providing leadership and direction for program development, establishing program standards, and monitoring and evaluating quality of service delivery systems. The Director reports to the local board of social services and serves as Executive Officer and secretary to the Social Services Board. Illustrative Examples of Work Responsible for developing and managing department budget of over $20M Maintains direct involvement in staffing and personnel issues Serves as the principal spokesperson for the agency relative to program issues. Participate in monthly Director Meetings - in person and virtually Represents the agency with government officials, other human services providers, and a variety of advocacy groups to influence the decision-making process to ensure adequate resources for program maintenance and expansion. Maintain strong understanding of policies, legislative changes that impact the department - such as federal HR1 in order to clearly communicate impact and guide departmental operations. Member of the EOC and responsible for staffing mass care shelter operations in designated county emergencies Participate on community boards Requires on-call and after hours work, providing consent and staffing for critical situations, and to attend meetings, trainings and representing the agency Other duties as required. Recruitment and Selection Guidelines Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Must have thorough knowledge of the legal and philosophical basis for public welfare programs. Must have a thorough knowledge of the agency's organization, operation and objectives and applicable federal and state laws, rules, and regulations. Must have considerable knowledge of personnel policy in accordance with the merit system rules of the State Personnel Commission Must have considerable knowledge of fiscal operations as it relates to DSS and the multitude of funding streams that support the agency to ensure responsible and effective use of public funds. Considerable knowledge of principles and practice of social work Ability to lead and direct the program's development, and establish program standards. Ability to use sound judgment in analyzing situations and making decisions. Ability to monitor and evaluate the quality of the service delivery systems. Ability to direct employees and programs in the various areas of responsibility. Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with the general public, and with federal, state, and local officials. Ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing. Physical Requirements Must be able to physically perform the basic life operational support functions of the position including, but not limited to lifting, prolonged standing, driving, sitting, bending, stooping, and operating or performing work with associated tools and machines. Ability to move from one place to another within the worksite. Must have visual and auditory acuity, and the finger dexterity required to operate the telephone and personal computer. Ability to operate a motor vehicle. Education and Experience A master's degree in social work and two years of supervisory experience in the delivery of client services; or a bachelor's degree in social work and three years of supervisory experience in the delivery of client services, one of which must have been in Social Services; or graduation from a four year college or university and three years of supervisory experience in the delivery of client services, two of which must have been in Social Services; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. Candidates with extensive upper level leadership experience in a NC Department of Social Services preferred Licenses and Certifications Must have a valid North Carolina Driver's License.