SOCIAL SERVICES AREA MANAGER

State of Arkansas•Little Rock, AR

About The Position

The Department of Human Services (DHS)/Division of County Operations (DCO) Social Services Area Manager is responsible for the implementation and delivery of public assistance programs in a multi-county area. This position is governed by state and federal laws and agency policy.The Department of Human Services is a place for people passionate about serving others and changing lives for the better. We care for Arkansans of all ages and ensure places like child care centers and nursing homes are safe. We are the safety net for the most vulnerable Arkansans. Whether you answer the phones, take applications, protect children, or help care for residents or patients at one of our facilities, you make a difference by working at DHS. Plus, working for the State has great perks, including a pension, maternity leave, paid state holidays, and much more. At DHS, we take care of our employees so you can help care for others.The Social Services Area Manager serves as the highest regional-level administrator responsible for the management and delivery of comprehensive social service programs within a designated multi-county area. This position provides strategic leadership, oversight of regional operations, program implementation, compliance monitoring, and staff supervision to ensure the consistent delivery of services such as child welfare, adult protective services, public assistance, and other community-based programs.

Requirements

At least five years of experience in human services, social services, public administration, or a related field, including two years in a leadership capacity.
Knowledge of state and federal laws related to social services, public assistance, protective services, and eligibility programs.
Knowledge of budget development, resource allocation, data analysis, and personnel management.
Ability to develop partnerships, lead large and diverse teams, interpret legal documentation.
Ability to communicate effectively with diverse communities, remain ethical and uphold confidentiality, and analyze programming.
Skilled in time management, organization, and problem solving.
Skilled in crisis management, conflict resolution, public speaking, and budget analysis.

Responsibilities

Direct the planning, development, and implementation of all regional social service programs across counties within the assigned area.
Supervise large staff; ensure effective coaching, performance evaluation, and professional development.
Monitor program performance metrics, service outcomes, and client satisfaction to ensure program quality, equity, and effectiveness.
Ensure compliance with all applicable state and federal laws, regulations, agency standards, and accreditation requirements.
Develop area-specific goals and strategies to meet client needs and support vulnerable populations.
Manage the area budget, approve expenditures, allocate resources, and ensure cost-effective operations.
Represent the department in community meetings, stakeholder engagements, and interagency collaborations.
Serve as the primary liaison between regional operations and central office leadership for policy implementation, feedback, and operational planning.
Oversee incident response, audits, investigations, and corrective action plans as needed.
Ensure equitable access to services and support for marginalized and underserved populations.