ENTRY SALARY:                               Dependent on Qualifications

POSITION RANGE:                           $106,150 – 148,610/annum

The Town of Groton, Connecticut seeks a motivated, committed, and strategic Human Services professional to shape, guide and execute community support initiatives. The Director will assess services for efficiency, matching shifting community needs, and impact, while leading a team. In concert with its’ peers, this position is accountable for ensuring that equal opportunity, diversity, equity and inclusion are integrally tied to all actions and decisions in areas of responsibility This is a non-union, exempt, full-time position.

Groton is located on the shoreline in southeastern Connecticut and is home to a diverse community that celebrates inclusivity. The Town is active in economic development and diversification, and is conveniently located midway between New York and Boston. Groton boasts diverse educational options, historic sites, attractions, and outdoor spaces, for a balanced quality of life. 

The Town of Groton is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity at all levels; it is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, and encourages all individuals to apply.

The total rewards package for this position includes the following:

Health and Dental Insurance

Employer HSA contribution

Traditional Pension, or 457 Defined Contribution, Retirement Plan

Optional Deferred Compensation plans (Roth IRA or 457(b))

Employer sponsored life insurance

Tuition reimbursement

Employee Assistance Program

Wellness activities and resources

Generous accrued leave time (Vacation and Sick)

13 Paid Holidays

Professional Development Opportunities

The Town is an eligible Public Service Loan Forgiveness employer

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Director of Human Services is responsible for the overall direction, leadership, and administration of programs and services in the Department of Human Services.  This position provides strategic management of the Groton Social Services, Groton Food Locker programs, Veteran’s services, as well as grant funded and Trust Fund programs. Responsible for strategizing, planning, and directing the service and delivery goals of the department, ensuring continuous alignment with changing community needs. Establishes department best practices. Creates and recommends department policy and processes that ensure the efficient, equitable, and timely provision of services to clients. Responsible for ensuring successful internal and external communication regarding department news, programs, and resources that are available.

Provides direct supervision, leadership, and evaluation of team members. Manages volunteers and others utilizing space in the department, including assignments and recognition. Prepares budget for submission to the Town Manager and is responsible for the administration and oversight of the adopted budget. Applies for and manages, in conjunction with other relevant departments, grant funds for special projects. Additionally, the Department provides the Veterans Services Representative services; serves as the Municipal Agent for the Elderly, and coordinates Department participation in the Police Department’s Youth Advisory Council. 

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

The skills and knowledge required would generally be acquired with a Master's Degree in Public Administration, Social Work, Psychology, Counseling or related field and a minimum of seven (7) years’ experience in the Social Services field, three (3) of which must have been in an administrative or supervisory capacity, and a minimum of five (5) years’ experience as a social worker or related position in a social work setting. A combination of education and experience which demonstrates the ability to successfully meet the requirements of the position may be considered.

Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of social work and municipal services programs; thorough knowledge of federal, state, and local public assistance laws, regulations and funding sources; considerable knowledge of family economics and social problems.

Effectively communicates, and presents ideas clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing. Appropriately responds to inquiries and complaints from customers, regulatory agencies, and external partners.  Ability to effectively prepare and present information to senior management and public groups. Competency in Microsoft Word and Excel required.

Criminal background, drug testing, and driving record checks required prior to employment.

REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS/LICENSES 

Valid Motor Vehicle Operator’s License.

SELECTION PROCEDURE 

Review and screen of applications/resumes with best qualified candidates eligible for oral examination(s).

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

Applications are available at the Human Resources Office, Groton Town Hall, 45 Fort Hill Road, Groton, CT  06340 or at www.groton-ct.gov Applications must be returned on or before December 30, 2024.

Individuals with disabilities who will need reasonable accommodation to complete the selection process should inform the Human Resources Office as soon as possible. Documentation supporting the need for this accommodation may be required.