Buncombe County Job

Job Duties & Responsibilities:  The Economic Services Program Administrator is responsible for all Public Assistance programs, Food Assistance, Adult and Family Medicaid, Emergency Assistance, and Work First.  Primary responsibilities include providing administrative consultation, advice, and support to the Social Services Director in the development of procedures for and management of the service delivery sections of the Department.  Ultimate oversight and direction to division managers and supervisors for the management of programs such that the agency is in compliance with program mandates, effective in efforts of community outreach, and a leader in customer service. This position will interpret and act on data collected for all quality assurance measures and benchmarks and ensure an ongoing, rigorous approach to program excellence using tools such as the balanced-scorecard and results driven metrics.  This position will analyze administrative and programmatic problems and assist in formulating new or revised policies, procedures or problem-solving strategies.  This position is responsible for working with the finance officer to develop and implement yearly budget.  This position will lead in the use of technology to strengthen the effectiveness of programs and increase penetration of services in the community.  This position is responsible for significant outreach into the community through effective partnerships with other nonprofit and for profit agencies.  This position is responsible for effectively overseeing contracts.  This position will act in designated matters for the Social Services Director in his/her absence and in matters pertaining to social services in national, regional, and state conferences and meetings.

Develops policies and procedures to assure coordinated operation and “no wrong door” service delivery. In conjunction with the Agency Balanced Scorecard Process, develops work measurements and monitors quality, quantity, and timeliness of service. Prepares the budget for all programs under his/her supervision and prepares all planning documents required by the Director in consultation with the business office. Develops and monitors contracts and inter-agency agreements with other agencies to improve service delivery, eliminate duplication and coordinate  efforts.  Assists unit supervisors in developing unit work plans which are goal driven.  Consolidates unit work plans into agency work plan for service and income maintenance programs assuring coordination for efficiency, effectiveness, and compliance with all applicable rules and procedures.  Reviews and monitors the plans regularly with supervisors to assure that programs stay on course.  Responsible for direct supervision of the following units:  Family Assistance, Adult Assistance, Food Assistance, Clerical Support, and Work First Family Assistance.   Provides systems, in coordination with the Agency Balanced Scorecard, to provide frequent fiscal and work accomplishment information to guide the implementation of the plans, objectives, and budget, assuring appropriate and optimal utilization of resources.  Plans and conducts cost analysis and resource allocation studies. Actively participates in agency and community committees and community problem-solving initiatives. Carries out planned public relations initiative to enhance the public’s understanding of the service programs and clients’ needs and works closely with community partners to provide a coordinated response to needs of residents.  Handles clients or citizens complaints as appropriate.  Works closely with IT and Human Services Support Team Manager to ensure the smooth and effective implementation of technology to support work practices and customer service.  Resolves employee problems and grievances through informal or formal discussions and procedures.  Approves all disciplinary actions within the division. Approves final recommendations to the Director on the hiring of all employees.  Works in cooperation with the Human Resources Department to assure that employees are provided with the knowledge, skills and abilities needed to accomplish work and to provide opportunities for continued to development to their full potential. 

Knowledge, skills & abilities:  Thorough knowledge of social work principles, techniques, and practices and their application to casework problems.  Considerable knowledge of principles, methods, and techniques of public and business administration.  Considerable knowledge of the organization and structure of state and local governmental and volunteer agencies.  General knowledge of personnel policies and procedures and knowledge of best supervisory practices and leadership development. Ability to initiate and install administrative programs and procedures and to evaluate their effectiveness. Ability to direct and supervise a staff of employees engaged in a variety of social services activities.  Ability to maintain working relationships with administrative supervisors, associates, and social, medical, legal, civic, and religious organizations.  Ability to express ideas clearly and concisely and to plan and execute work effectively.  Considerable knowledge of the principles and techniques of public administration, including personnel administration, budgeting and office management.  Skill in directing a large staff of professional engaged in a variety of services.  Management, planning, training and organization skills.  Effective communication skills.  Basic computer literacy expected, more advanced skills preferred.  

Minimum Training & Experience:  Graduation from a four-year college or university and five years of administrative experience in government or business; or nine months of graduate training in a accredited school of social work and four years of supervisory or administrative experience in social work; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.