Director of Social Services

Job Description

Director of Social Services 

SUMMARY: 

The Director of Social Services is a senior management role responsible for overseeing and coordinating social service programs and initiatives within an organization. They lead a team of social workers, professionals and/or case managers ensuring the delivery of high-quality services to individuals and communities in need. The Director of Social Services plays a pivotal role in developing, implementing, and evaluating social service strategies to meet the organization’s mission and goals.

REPORTING RELATIONSHIP: 

This position reports to the Shelter Program Director

LOCATION: Long Island City

 POSITION TYPE: Full-time

Full-time - requires flexibility to cover shifts in the event of staffing shortages or emergencies 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Ensures quality care and oversees clinical and social services functions of the sanctuary according to DHS.
• Develop and execute a strategic vision for the organization’s social services department.
• Responsible for the oversight and implementation of care and resources for the purpose of meeting the physical, emotional and social needs of participants.
• Provides supervision to the intake services and case management and crisis teams and works with the Program Director to develop, implement, track, report and evaluate measurable outcomes.
• Coordinate all case management services, including social service intake, assessments, development and implementation of independent living plans, and case conferences.
• Facilitate interdepartmental communication and conduct staff meetings with social service employees.
• Attend meetings with governing and outside agencies as required.
• Connect with community leaders to build connections, gain support and troubleshoot issues/concerns.
• Liaise with medical and psychiatric providers (both internal and external), employment providers and partnered community organizations to ensure appropriate service delivery for participants.
• Develop program content to address client needs related to housing, substance abuse treatment, mental health, and employment.
• Plan and organize program activities to maximize program contract and performance goals.
• Assist the Program Director with completion of monthly deliverables as assigned by the Program Director.
• Maintaining compliance with all organizational policies and legal regulations, by ensuring meticulous documentation of all activities in the department.
• Review analysis of program and demographic client data to make program improvements.
• Set realistic weekly and monthly performance goals in accordance with contract requirements with reporting staff.
• Ensure housing and performance outcomes are met on a monthly/quarterly/annual basis.
• Identify changing program needs and program gaps to develop new services, service directions and/or programs to meet participant needs.
• Conduct periodic internal file reviews and implement Quality Assurance measures as needed to ensure quality service delivery to participants (i.e., address and investigate participant complaints).
• Conduct and document one on one supervision of direct reporting staff to assess and improve work performance (i.e., identify training needs, professional development, etc.).
• Develop and implement crisis prevention/or intervention strategies to ensure a safe and secure environment.
• Organize onsite and offsite training opportunities for professional growth and development of staff.
• Report all incidents that may subject agency to liability to the Program Director.
• Assist in review and submission of incident reports as assigned by Program Director.

QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Master’s Degree in related field (Social Work, Mental Health Counseling, Education, Psychology, Sociology, etc.).

• Supervisor experience of at least three (3) plus years strongly preferred.

• Experience working with the NYC DHS and DHS CARES system is preferred.

• Previous experience with case management, job development, and/or adult education.

• Excellent communication skills, professional demeanor, sound judgment and strong organizational skills.

• Willingness to work collaboratively, but with the capacity to work independently.

OTHER SKILLS/ABILITIES: 

• Strong interpersonal, leadership, negotiation, and problem-solving skills with the ability to maintain professional, respectful, and service-oriented relationships with staff, clients, and stakeholders.

• Excellent judgment and discretion with the ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, remain detail-oriented, and perform effectively in high-stress, fast-paced environments.

• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while identifying issues, resolving routine problems, and maintaining accountability for results.

• Collaborative team player with a positive “can-do” attitude committed to maintaining a professional, calm, and productive work environment.

BENEFITS: 

20 Vacation days Annually

12 Sick Days 

Floating Holiday 1 annually 

401K retirement plan with 3% match after 90 days of employment

Medical Benefits after 30 days of employment with Cigna 

Dental/Vision eligible after 90 days of employment 

Access to Gym/Weight Room 

Access to the Boxing Ring 

Short Term Disability

Life, Accidental Insurance available through Aflac 

Transit Check for commuting expenses 

Legal Shield for legal services

Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) participant

Are you passionate about strengthening communities and improving outcomes for individuals and families in need?

Join Elmcor Youth & Adult Activities as a Director of Social Services and lead the development, implementation, and oversight of critical social service programs. This role offers the opportunity to guide clinical and case management operations, enhance service delivery, and ensure programs are aligned with regulatory standards, quality care, and participant well-being.

If you are an experienced, compassionate, and strategic leader dedicated to driving service excellence and meaningful community impact, we encourage you to apply today and take the next step in a purpose-driven career.