DIVISION DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL SERVICES PROGRAMS

National Association Of Counties Inc; Santa Cruz (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

The County of Santa Cruz seeks an experienced leader to serve as Division Director of Social Services Programs. This executive role oversees essential social services programs, guides operations, and works with staff, community partners, and agencies to ensure quality services for individuals and families in Santa Cruz County.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong leadership, management, and communication skills, with experience directing complex programs, budgeting and staff oversight,

Qualifications

• Three years of responsible administrative or management experience demonstrating knowledge and abilities (see job Announcement online).
• A Master’s degree in Business or Public Administration, Social Services or Social Work, or closely related field may be substituted for one year of the required experience.

Responsibilities

• Oversee social services programs and guide program operations.
• Lead collaboration with staff, community partners, and other agencies to ensure quality services for individuals and families.
• Develop and implement policies and procedures; manage budgets and staff.

Skills

Leadership

Management

Budgeting

Policy development

Communication

Education

Master's degree in Business Administration

Master's degree in Public Administration

Master's degree in Social Services

Master's degree in Social Work

Job description

The County of Santa Cruz is seeking an experienced and dynamic leader to serve as Division Director of Social Services Programs. This key leadership role oversees essential social services programs, guides program operations, and works collaboratively with staff, community partners, and other agencies to ensure quality services and support for individuals and families throughout Santa Cruz County.

Final Filing Date: Friday, October 30, 2026

The ideal candidate will have strong leadership, management, and communication skills, along with experience overseeing complex social services programs, managing budgets and staff, and developing effective policies and procedures. Candidates should demonstrate sound judgment, strategic planning abilities, and a commitment to delivering responsive, equitable, and effective services to the community. Please review the official recruitment announcement for the complete minimum qualifications and application requirements.

The Requirements:

• THREE YEARS OF RESPONSIBLE ADMINISTRATIVE OR MANAGEMENT EXPERIENCE WHICH WOULDDEMONSTRATE APPLICATION OR POSSESSION OF THE REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES (see job Announcement online)
• A MASTER'S DEGREE IN BUSINESS OR PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION, SOCIAL SERVICES OR SOCIALWORK, OR CLOSELY RELATED FIELD, MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ONE YEAR OF THE REQUIRED EXPERIENCE