Department of Social Services

The Family Support Division is seeking candidates for a Deputy Director position for our Child Support Offices. This position will be based at 615 Howerton Crt, Jefferson City, MO.

The Deputy Director provides high-level leadership and operation oversight to support the Division Director in managing critical programs, in this capacity it will be for Child Support. This role ensures strategic implementation of policies, compliance with federal and state regulations, and alignment with agency’s mission and goals. The Deputy Director acts as a key advisor, standing in the for the Director when needed and facilitating cross-functional collaboration to drive results.

Strategic Leadership

• Assist the Director in formulating and implementing division-wide strategies, policies and goals.
• Lead internal initiatives to improve program performance, operational efficiency, and service delivery.
• Support change management efforts, including communicating vision, priorities and progress across teams.

Operational Oversight

• Oversee day-to-day operations and ensure alignment with federal/state mandates, performance standards, and budgetary limits.
• Monitor and evaluate program performance, identifying areas for improvement and recommending corrective actions.
• Manage cross-departmental coordination to resolve complex issues and streamline processes.

Staff Supervision & Development

• Supervise key managerial staff and support their professional growth through coaching, performance evaluations and training opportunities.
• Promote a healthy and include work culture that values accountability, collaboration and excellence.
• Serve as Acting Director in the absence of the Division Director.

Policy & Compliance

• Interpret and ensure compliance with state and federal regulations related to Child Support Programs.
• Represent the division during audits, briefings, or hearings, and prepare official reports or policy recommendations.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Liaise with internal and external stakeholders, including legislators, community partners, and federal oversight bodies.
• Respond to high-level inquires and public concerns in a professional, informed manner.

Budget & Resource Management

• Assist in budget planning, monitoring, and fiscal oversight.
• Recommend resource allocations to support strategic priorities and staffing needs.

SKILLS & COMPETENCIES:

• Strong leadership and decision-making abilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in data analysis, program evaluation, and project management.
• Deep understanding of public sector operations and policy compliance.
• Crisis management and conflict resolution abilities.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Office environment with occasional travel for site visits or meetings.

May require extended hours during peak periods or emergencies.

High-intensity, fast-moving work environment requiring quick thinking, adaptability, and resilience

Minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible leadership experience in a human services, social services, or government program preferred. Experience in Child Support Program is highly preferred.

Experience managing complex programs, personnel and budgets required.

Recruitment Area: Accepting applications from all qualified applicants.

Lack of post‐secondary education will not be used as the sole basis denying consideration to any applicant.

The State of Missouri offers an excellent benefits package that includes a defined pension plan, generous amounts of leave and holiday time, and eligibility for health insurance coverage. Your total compensation is more than the dollars you receive in your paycheck. To help demonstrate the value of working for the State of Missouri, we have created an interactive Total Compensation Calculator. This tool provides a comprehensive view of benefits and more that are offered to prospective employees. The Total Compensation Calculator and other applicant resources can be found here.

FSD.Personnel@dss.mo.gov

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