(Unclassified)
Under direction of the Director of Health and Human Services, assist the Director in the development and implementation of Departmental policies, strategies and operational plans; manage day-to-day operations; recommend priorities for Department resource allocations; serve as a lead member of the department’s management team and to serve as acting Director of Health and Human Services in the absence of the Director.
The Assistant Director level is a single position class and serves as an assistant department head performing administrative and management tasks for the director as assigned.
Receives administrative direction from the Director of Health and Human Services.
Exercises direct supervision over management, supervisory, professional, technical and clerical personnel.
Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:
Assist the Director of Health and Human Services in managing and directing the Department of Health and Human Services; serve as the acting Director of Health and Human Services in Director’s absence and assume full responsibility of the department as needed.
Assist in developing the Department goals and objectives; assist in the development of policies and procedures.
Plan, organize and direct activities and operations of the Department; confer with the Director regarding policies and operating processes; review, evaluate and recommend changes in policies, programs and operations; mentor and coach subordinates to implement the direction of the Director; identify emerging issues, assess alternative strategies and action plans, and solve problems.
Develop and implement work plans, performance measures, assign work activities, projects and programs; monitor workflow; review and evaluate work products, methods and procedures.
Develop emergency response action plans as needed by the Department and community.
Prepare the Department budget; assist in budget implementation; participate in the forecast of additional funds needed for staffing, equipment, materials and supplies; administer the approved budget.
Recommend the appointment of personnel; provide or coordinate staff training; conduct performance evaluations; implement discipline procedures as requested; maintain discipline and high standards necessary for the efficient and professional operation of the Department.
Consult and cooperate with State departments, County Department managers, advisory boards and advocacy groups on all aspects of Health and Human Services and community outreach; identify and assess community, constituent, policy and operational issues and problems; develop, evaluate and recommend alternative strategies and solutions; and assist in implementing strategies, operational plans and programs.
Conduct and/or attend various public meetings to represent the interest of the Department.
Build and maintain positive working relationships with State Departments, Department heads, County managers, County employees, and the public using principles of good customer service.
Represent the Department to outside agencies and organizations; participate in outside community and professional groups and committees; provide technical assistance as necessary.
Evaluate public complaints pertaining to activities, practices, or individuals of the Department; direct the internal investigations within the Department as directed by the Director.
Research and prepare technical and administrative reports; prepare written correspondence.
Perform a variety of special assignments.
In the absence of the Director of Health and Human Services, assume responsibility of the Department as needed.
Perform related duties as assigned.
Experience and Training
Any combination of experience and training that would provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:
Experience: Five years of senior level managerial and/or administrative experience relating to planning, organizing and directing the operations of a large, complex department or agency with a wide variety of programs, services and funding sources. Experience in a Health and/or Human Services Agency is preferred.
Training: Equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in business, public administration, public health, health science, sociology, psychology, counseling, behavioral sciences or a related field.
Required License or Certificate:
May need to possess a valid driver’s license as required by the position. Proof of adequate vehicle insurance and medical clearance may also be required.