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DEPARTMENT:

SOCIAL SERVICES (DSS)

DATE POSTED:

OCTOBER 16, 2026

CLOSING DATE:

OCTOBER 30, 2026

HIRING RANGE:

$72,783.00 - $98,214.00

POSITION NUMBER:

40001483

JOB TYPE:

FULL-TIME, EXEMPT

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

Work in this class involves the supervision of a staff of social Workers that provide direct and/or indirect services to clients. Work supervised is predominantly at the level of Social Worker III and/or Human Services Coordinator III. Employees assign cases to subordinates, coordinate work flow operations, and supervise staff through case review and consultation which requires the provision of substantial and recurring technical direction. Employees are responsible for staff training, resolving problems and ensuring that quality services are provided. Employees may provide input to higher level management on administrative, personnel, and budget issues. Employees' responsibilities may range from a single sub-unit in an agency or institution to multiple service programs in a small agency and may carry a small caseload. Employees report to a higher level supervisor or administrator.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The functions listed below are those that represent the majority of the time spent working in this position. Management may assign additional functions related to the type of work of the position as necessary.

Supervises a unit of Social Workers in the Foster Care Permanency Planning Unit that provides services to children in the legal custody of the Department of Social Services who require family reunification, adoption, or termination of parental rights. The primary goal of this position is to oversee the agency’s efforts to establish safe permanent homes for children in foster care by addressing safety issues that lead to the department’s involvement. This position will perform managerial duties such as performance appraisals, hiring and staff development. Represents the agency at local and State meetings and ensures the overall operation of the unit. The ideal candidate can work independently and as a member of a team. Job responsibilities include:

Plan, organize and direct day to day case assignments and workflow
Supervise staff through case review and consultation
Coach, train, and mentor staff
Resolve complex problems and ensure quality services are provided
Maintain relationships and collaborate with community partners
Address personnel concerns

KNOWLEDGE SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

Must possess a comprehensive knowledge of principles, methods, and techniques of social work, including a broad knowledge of child welfare policies and procedures.
Knowledge of NC laws, policies and regulations relating to foster care, adoption, and licensing requirements; and knowledge of the judicial system needed.
Effective oral and written communication skills
Ability to teach, plan, organize and schedule management functions.
Ability to deal effectively with the public and other community agencies desired.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

Master’s degree in social work from an appropriately accredited institution and two years of directly related experience; or a bachelor’s degree in social work from an appropriately accredited institution and three years of directly related experience; or a master’s degree in a human services field from an appropriately accredited institution and three years of directly related experience; or a bachelor’s degree in a human services field from an appropriately accredited institution and four years of directly related experience; or a bachelor’s degree from an appropriately accredited institution and five years of directly related experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENT

Valid NC Drivers License and acceptable Driving Record

AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT COMPLIANCE:

Durham County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. ADA requires Durham County to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss ADA accommodations with management.

BACKGROUND CHECK STATEMENT:

This position may be subject to a background check, which could include, but is not limited to, criminal history (employment-related and/or SBI fingerprint-based), credit history, motor vehicle records, educational verification, and checks of the sexual offender registry, depending on the specific requirements of the role. A conviction record does not automatically disqualify an applicant from employment consideration, unless otherwise required by applicable state law.