Director of Social Services

Supervises: Case Managers, Employment Specialist & Recruitment

Job Summary:

The Director of Student Services is responsible for managing all non-grooming programs that support student success. This includes overseeing case management, social services integration, and the strategic development of student services programs. Working closely with other departments, the Director ensures a cohesive approach to student services and develops partnerships that enrich the lives of students and their families.

Key Responsibilities:

• Leadership and Management:
• Lead and manage the Student Services department, overseeing recruitment, training, and evaluation of faculty and staff, including case managers, employment specialists, and volunteers.
• Provide training and supervision to case management staff and volunteers.
• Ensure integration of grooming training with social service programs, addressing student attendance and discipline.
• Oversee the budget for student services and allocate resources effectively.

Student Support & Social Services Oversight (70%):

Provide strategic guidance for ethical dilemmas, crisis interventions, and overall case management oversight.

Design and implement comprehensive support services, including case management, counseling, career services, and student engagement programs.

Facilitate ongoing coordination of social service delivery with grooming training, supporting students' academic and personal challenges.

Address student concerns, promote student retention, and develop initiatives like mentorship programs and ongoing education for graduates.

Program Development (30%):

Research and implement best practices in workforce programs, ensuring continuous program improvement. Collaborate with faculty, administration, and external partners to create a supportive, integrated student experience. Develop services that address diverse student needs, including mental health, basic needs, academic success, and career planning. Build and cultivate partnerships with external organizations to provide additional student support (housing, childcare, mental health, legal aid, dental care, addiction recovery).

Graduate Engagement:

Foster a vibrant graduate community by overseeing employment and ongoing education opportunities.

Support a growing network of employers who rely on Pawsperity for groomer talent.

Compliance and Reporting:

Ensure compliance with internal policies and state/federal regulations related to student services.

Collect and analyze program data, making recommendations for improvements based on outcomes.

Prepare reports for senior management on student services programs and outcomes.

Collaborative Responsibilities:

Work collaboratively with peers, students, and partners to achieve organizational goals aligned with Pawsperity’s mission.

Engage in community coalitions to promote awareness of Pawsperity and its mission.

 Qualifications:

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Education, Social Work, Counseling, Student Affairs, or related field preferred. At least 5 years of experience in student services or a related field. A minimum of 10 years in a leadership and management role. Experience managing staff and overseeing social service programs is essential.

Skills:

Strong leadership and management skills with the ability to inspire and lead a team.

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

Proven ability to develop and implement strategic plans and programs.

Experience with case management, crisis intervention, and program compliance.

Data analysis and budget management skills.

Work Environment:

Primarily an office environment, with occasional evening and weekend events.

Flexibility to work nonstandard hours and engage with external partners in diverse settings.

This integrated job description reflects the essential responsibilities and expectations of the Director of Student Services, merging social services oversight with strategic program development to meet the unique needs of Pawsperity's students.

Salary $90,000 Full Time with full benefits and retirement match.