Benefits:
401(k)
Free uniforms
Paid time off
Seeking an experienced and compassionate Director of Social Services to lead the delivery of comprehensive case management and supportive services within a Department of Homeless Services (DHS) shelter. The Director of Social Services is responsible for overseeing all social service operations, ensuring compliance with DHS contractual requirements, supervising multidisciplinary staff, and helping residents achieve permanent housing and self-sufficiency.
The ideal candidate is a strong leader with extensive experience in homeless services, case management, housing placement, and program compliance within New York City's shelter system.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Leadership & Program Management
Direct and supervise all social service operations within the shelter.
Provide leadership, coaching, and supervision to Case Managers, Housing Specialists, Employment Specialists, Recreational Coordinators, and other program staff.
Conduct weekly individual supervision and multidisciplinary team meetings.
Develop staff schedules and ensure appropriate coverage.
Monitor staff performance and complete annual evaluations.
Recruit, hire, train, and mentor social services personnel.
Client Services
Ensure every resident receives comprehensive assessments and individualized service plans.
Oversee crisis intervention, conflict resolution, and client advocacy.
Monitor progress toward housing stability and self-sufficiency goals.
Ensure residents receive referrals to:
Mental Health Services
Substance Abuse Treatment
Medical Care
Employment Services
Educational Programs
Public Benefits
Community Resources
Coordinate multidisciplinary case conferences.
Housing & Case Management
Ensure timely completion of housing applications.
Monitor housing placement activities.
Oversee permanent housing placements including:
CityFHEPS
Section 8
NYCHA
Supportive Housing
Affordable Housing
HASA (when applicable)
Monitor housing placement metrics and outcomes.
Compliance & Quality Assurance
Ensure compliance with:
NYC Department of Homeless Services (DHS)
NYS Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA)
Agency policies and procedures
Confidentiality and HIPAA regulations
Conduct regular case record audits.
Review documentation for accuracy and timeliness.
Ensure all client files meet DHS standards.
Prepare for internal and external audits and monitoring visits. DHS shelters operated by nonprofit providers must comply with DHS contractual requirements and applicable OTDA shelter regulations.
Data Management
Monitor CARES and other DHS reporting systems.
Review daily census reports.
Ensure accurate documentation.
Track performance indicators including:
Housing placements
Case note completion
Service plan compliance
Employment outcomes
Client engagement
Incident Management
Respond to client emergencies.
Assist with serious incident investigations.
Ensure timely completion of incident reports.
Coordinate with Operations and Security departments.
Participate in the shelter's on-call leadership rotation.
Community Partnerships
Build relationships with:
DHS
HRA
Community organizations
Mental health providers
Employment providers
Healthcare organizations
Housing providers
Attend DHS meetings and community partner meetings.
Minimum Qualifications
Education
Master's Degree in:
Social Work (MSW preferred)
Human Services
Psychology
Counseling
Sociology
Public Administration
Related Human Services field
Experience
Minimum 5 years of progressively responsible social services experience.
Minimum 3 years in a supervisory or management role.
Experience in:
DHS shelters
Homeless services
Housing programs
Case management
Crisis intervention
Program administration
Preferred
LMSW or LCSW (preferred but not required)
DHS-funded shelter experience
CARES experience
Housing placement experience
OTDA and DHS compliance knowledge
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Strong leadership and supervisory skills
Excellent crisis intervention abilities
Knowledge of NYC shelter system
Knowledge of DHS policies and procedures
Understanding of trauma-informed care
Strong conflict resolution skills
Excellent organizational and time management skills
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Ability to manage multiple priorities
Strong documentation and quality assurance skills
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
High level of professionalism and confidentiality
Computer Skills
Experience with:
Microsoft Office Suite
CARES
HMIS (preferred)
Electronic Case Management Systems
Outlook
Excel
Teams
Physical Requirements
Ability to walk throughout the shelter.
Ability to respond to emergencies.
Ability to occasionally lift up to 25 pounds.
Ability to work evenings, weekends, or holidays as required.
Salary
$85,000 – $105,000 annually, based on education, licensure, and experience.