SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATOR

Date: Mar 2, 2026

Req ID: 55724

Location:

Little Rock, AR, US, 72203

Category: AR DEPT OF HUMAN SERVICES

Anticipated Starting Salary: $114,390

Position Number: 22109708
County: Pulaski
Posting End Date: March 16, 2026

Job Duties:

The Social Services Administrator of Program Policy and Community Grant Services is responsible for program policy and plan development and implementation for public assistance programs administered by DCO. This Social Services Administrator is also responsible for administering the Community Service Block Grant, Summer EBT Grant and managing the SNAP Employment and Training program as well as the DCO Training Unit.

Preferred Qualifications:

The formal education equivalent of a bachelor’s degree in public administration, business administration, or a related field; plus eight years of progressively more responsible experience in public program management, public assistance operations or a related field, including four years in a professional managerial capacity.

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 childcare 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.

Position Information

Job Series: Social Services Programs – Competitive

Classification: Social Service Administrator

Class Code: SSP07C

Pay Grade: SPC08

Salary Range: $114,390 - $169,298

Job Summary

The Social Service Administrator provides oversight and direction for the planning, coordination, and evaluation of major programs or service areas. This position ensures that services are delivered effectively and in compliance with applicable laws and policies, while supporting the mission of the State of Arkansas to protect and empower vulnerable populations. The Administrator supervises professional staff, monitors performance and program quality, and serves as a liaison between field operations, agency leadership, and community partners.

Primary Responsibilities

Supervise and evaluate the work of professionals and support staff delivering services in various program areas. Manage program operations including client service delivery, case management systems, documentation standards, and reporting processes. Ensure compliance with state and federal regulations governing social service programs. Develop and implement operational procedures, program policies, and quality assurance mechanisms. Serve as the division or unit point of contact for internal and external audits, investigations, and evaluations. Coordinate with DHS leadership and external agencies to facilitate resource sharing, program alignment, and client-centered care. Prepare and analyze reports related to service outcomes, staffing, performance indicators, and budget needs. Participate in hiring, training, and professional development of team members. Respond to emergency or high-risk situations involving clients and staff with appropriate leadership and intervention.

Knowledge and Skills

Knowledge of personnel policies and labor laws, strategic planning, and public sector frameworks. Knowledge of state and federal laws and regulations governing human services and public administration, principles of budget management, and program evaluation. Ability to develop partnerships, lead large and diverse teams, act as an executive leader within the organization. Ability to communicate effectively with diverse communities, develop and coordinate financial plans, and make sound decisions under pressure. Skilled in time management, organization, and problem solving.

Minimum Qualifications

At least six years of experience in human services, public administration, program management, or a related field, including two years in executive management.

Licensure/Certifications

N/A OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.