Job Details

Salary: $94,137.00 - $115,000.00 AnnuallyLocation : Roanoke, VAJob Type: Full TimeJob Number: 201003427Department: Social ServicesOpening Date: 06/06/2025Closing Date: Continuous GENERAL DESCRIPTIONRoanoke County, Virginia, is currently seeking an experienced professional to serve as an Assistant Director of the Department of Social Services (DSS). This role provides a unique opportunity for a dynamic leader with comprehensive experience across social services, including benefits administration, service delivery functions, and ancillary support services. The Assistant Director will directly support the Director and other Assistant Directors in managing and guiding approximately 140+ dedicated staff, including social workers, benefits advisors, administrative personnel, and other support roles, toward excellence in service delivery and departmental effectiveness. Roanoke County seeks a leader who thrives in challenging environments, possesses a deep commitment to public service excellence, and has the ambition to evolve into future leadership opportunities. Join us in making a meaningful impact in our community by enhancing lives through responsive, compassionate, and effective social services. The first review of applications will begin on July 1st. OVERVIEW OF RESPONSIBILITIES Performs complex professional and administrative work as the principal assistant to the Social Services Director, requiring the planning, organizing, staffing, and directing of major functional areas of the local department and includes both operational and administrative program areas. Manages program areas, advises the Social Services Director on a variety of issues and, undertakes special projects. Employee is second only to the director in making decisions affecting the department, particularly in specified program areas and will assist in the management of County, Federal and State budgets. Does related work as required. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS ~ Provide strategic leadership and operational oversight across the full spectrum of social services, including family assistance programs, child welfare, adult services, public benefits such as Medicaid and SNAP, and workforce development.~ Lead and supervise ancillary support functions to ensure robust and efficient departmental operations.~ Develop, mentor, and retain talent by cultivating a positive, inclusive workplace culture that supports professional growth, stability, and job satisfaction.~ Serve as a collaborative team leader who actively promotes departmental teamwork, cohesion, cooperation, and collective achievement of goals.~ Implement best practices in workforce management, emphasizing engagement, professional development, and performance management.~ Collaborate closely with the Director to identify innovative strategies and policy improvements to enhance the quality and effectiveness of social services provided to County residents.~ Represent the department effectively in inter-agency and community collaborations to foster strong partnerships and enhance service integration.~ Supervises specified program areas and supervisory staff associated with assigned programs.~ Writes, revises and interprets operational and program policy of the department and implements new programs as developed.~ Researches and assists in developing resources for social services programs; provides assistance in grant applications.~ Serves as department liaison/representative for various external committees, task forces or boards and special events in the absence of the Director or on behalf of the department.~ Acts for Director in the latter's absence. REQUIREMENTS/PREFERENCES Education:Required: Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in public administration, social work, human services or related field; or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. Master's degree preferred.Experience:Required: Five or more years across multiple social service disciplines. Experience managing diverse teams, particularly social workers, benefits advisors, and administrative personnel, with a track record of successful team building and employee retention.Certifications/Licenses:Required: Valid Virginia's driver's license with good driving record.Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:Comprehensive knowledge of principles, practices, processes, and management methods for the delivery of public assistance programs and social services. Thorough knowledge of human resource management principles, practices, and procedures. Thorough knowledge of federal, state and local social services policies and programs and the laws on which they are based. General knowledge of social casework philosophy and of current social, economic, and health problems and trends. Demonstrates a comprehensive knowledge of benefits administration, case management practices, and service delivery. Demonstrated ability to foster a supportive and motivating environment conducive to professional growth and departmental stability. Commitment to continuous improvement, innovation, and preparing for potential future advancement. Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills. Ability to interpret laws, policies and regulations sufficiently to administer programs.Supervisory Responsibilities:Supervision is exercised over a large group of subordinate clerical, technical, and professional employees.Additional Requirements:Subject to complete criminal history background search with acceptable results. Must also be able to perform the job as described in the Physical and Environmental Demands section of this job description. OTHER INFORMATIONFull-time employees are eligible for a comprehensive benefit package that includes:•Progressive Flexible Leave Plan with cash-in option•Twelve paid holidays•Short Term Disability Insurance•Long Term Disability Insurance•Health, Vision and Dental Insurance•Life Insurance•Flexible Spending Accounts - Medical and Dependent Care•Virginia Retirement System - Membership in VRS is automatic upon hire into a covered position. County contributes and employees pay their membership contribution.•Deferred Compensation Plan with County Match•Employee Assistance Program•Credit Union Membership