Department Director, Economic Assistance
About The Position
The Anoka County Human Services Division is seeking a Department Director for Economic Assistance, to lead and shape the department’s strategy and operations for public assistance programs and child support services. This position directs all aspects of program administration for federal and state public assistance programs such as SNAP and Medicaid and child support services for Anoka County residents. The Economic Assistance Department Director oversees staff and daily operations; analyzes, develops and implements legislative direction and policy changes; and develops department strategic plans that align with Anoka County objectives. This position is appointed by and serves at the will of the Anoka County Board of Commissioners and is subject to an employment agreement. This is a full-time, exempt, hybrid position. Interviews will take place the week of February 9th, 2026, for those selected to move forward in the hiring process.
Requirements
- Requires a bachelor’s degree.
- At least eight years (2,080 annual hours) of job-related experience overseeing public assistance, child support or related program operations and strategy at a management level, including oversight of multiple levels of staff and customer service operations.
- In lieu of the required education, an equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted on a year-for-year basis.
Nice To Haves
- Degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Human Services, or related field.
- Knowledge of Federal, State and Local Public Assistance and Child Support statutes.
- Knowledge of information technologies and principles necessary to manage a department reliant on state computer systems (MAXIS, MMIS, METS and PRISM), imaging and sophisticated networks and software.
- Ability to analyze, develop and interpret rules, regulations, policies and practices.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Experience leading teams and creating positive and productive work environments in a complex, customer-facing environment.
- Experience creating a positive and cohesive customer experience, in an environment of constantly changing funding and program requirements.
- Experience in a government or non-profit setting with a focus on public assistance, safety net or related programs.
- Experience creating and maintaining strong and diverse partnerships with community and internal partners.
- Experience and knowledge of budget oversight, including managing complex state and federal funding.
Responsibilities
- Develop and oversee management and the provision of services for all programs in the Economic Assistance Department resulting in the receipt of services which meet basic needs such as safety, food, shelter and health care.
- Direct and supervise the operations and activities of the department.
- Prepare strategic plans and develop policies and procedures to accomplish the department’s mission in accordance with state, federal and local policies, rules, laws and mandates that govern the programs in the Economic Assistance Department.
- Provide departmental oversight and direction in accordance with Anoka County’s policies and procedures.
- Coordinate and oversee department’s presentation of routine and informational updates and recommendations to the County Board, Human Services Committee and County Administration leadership.
- Represent Anoka County on statewide workgroups and committees.
- Provide feedback to policy makers and coordinate work and information with other counties and agencies.
- Conduct studies and special projects or initiatives as needed.
- Lead and mentor a team of managers.
- Oversee development of employees to promote engagement, productivity and effectiveness.
- Manage the department budget, including complex state and federal funding.
Benefits
- 24 days of paid flexible time off and up to 12.5 paid holidays.
- Comprehensive insurance, including medical, dental, vision, flex benefits and more at https://www.anokacountymn.gov/benefits.
- Medical and dental clinic exclusive to employees, located at the Anoka County Government Center.
- Pension plan and other retirement investment options.
- Advancement/professional development opportunities.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Director
