Abbeville County Director I / 61011838

Job Responsibilities

• The Abbeville County Director I manages and directs the operations of a County Department of Social Services (DSS) office by ensuring a safe and positive work environment. Must be accountable for the financial operations, personnel practices, and delivery of services to clients through Child Welfare Service Programs and Economic Services Programs. Maintains working relationships with other service providers and presents a positive image of the agency in the community. Works under the direction of the Child Welfare Services Regional Director for Child Welfare Services.

• Effectively manages and promotes a safe culture within county office by creating a learning environment conducive to professional development and accountability to practice that promotes safety, permanency, and well-being and aligns with the mission, vision, and values of the agency.

• Collaborates with community partners and stakeholders to access and/or create services for children, families and adults in the community. Conducts Child Welfare Improvement Team (CWIT) meetings to intentionally engage community partners/stakeholders to identify barriers/obstacles, gaps in service needs, placement resources, improve teaming with community partners in building services needed in community and clearly communicates the shared vision and goals of the agency. Responds to constituent inquiries from the public and families to problem solve and bring resolution to inquiries.

• Maintains working knowledge of DSS policies and updates. Oversees timely implementation and effective execution of all agency policies by coaching and training staff in policy application, discussing policy changes and updates.

• Manages system changes through intentional evaluation and re-evaluation of current processes and procedures; tracking, adjusting and streamlining efforts, monitoring strategic plans and initiatives within the region.

• Manages outcomes by reviewing county data to make informed decisions around practice patterns identified in data and practice/procedural changes needed to move the county towards best practice. Facilitates weekly and monthly meetings with all program services staff to review data trends and develop plans/strategies to improve practice and performance.

• Manages and provides leadership that supports timely hiring, recruitment, and retention of all county staff; soliciting input of Economic Services Division Directors. Reviews county data detailing retention and attrition patterns and develops strategies to recruit and retain top performing staff.

• Provides direct reports with EPMS planning and evaluation plans. Participates in timely hiring and training of all new employees. Completes performance and practice evaluations on direct reports biannually and upon request for level ascension. Timely submits evaluations for level ascension.

• Maintains an active routine of self-care and pursues support when necessary to minimize the threat of secondary trauma to physical and mental health.

• Ensures that personal identifying information (PII) is properly used, assessed, gathered, shared and disposed. Protects the agency networks and applications by safeguarding systems, equipment and data.

• Partners with EOC in planning needs for county during emergency response and coordinate Red Cross Shelter duties/services as directed by EOC.

• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Minimum and Additional Requirements

A Master's Degree and three (3) years of experience in any combination of social work, management, business administration, administrative services or public administration.

Or a Bachelor's Degree and five (5) years of experience in any combination of social work, management, business administration, administrative services or public administration.

Additional Comments

This application for employment with the SC Department of Social Services must be completed in its entirety. A resume may be included; but shall not be substituted in lieu of the completion of this application in part or in whole. "See Resume" is not acceptable information for the completion of any part of the requirements of this application. If such is submitted, this employment application will be considered incomplete and may not be forwarded as eligible for consideration to hiring managers.

A valid drivers license is required. Must possess a valid driver's license and have access to and be able to operate a motor vehicle.

If you certify, by completion and submission of this application, that you possess educational credentials that qualify you for the available DSS positions, you will be required to provide a certified official transcript, if you are selected for job offer.

The South Carolina Department of Social Services offers an exceptional benefits package that includes:

• Health, Dental, Vision, Long Term Disability, and Life Insurance for Employee, Spouse, and Children
• 15 days annual (vacation) leave per year
• 15 days sick leave per year
• 13 paid holidays
• Paid Parental Leave
• State Retirement Plan and Deferred Compensation Programs