Associate Director, Social Services – Community Guardian Program

About the role

The Associate Director, Social Services – Community Guardian Program (CGP) oversees the day-to-day social service operations of the program while ensuring compliance with HRA contractual requirements and established social service standards. This position provides direct supervision to Social Work Supervisors, oversees high-risk client cases, supports program operations, and partners with leadership to ensure timely completion of court reports and other required documentation.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and oversight of the Community Guardian Program's social services operations
• Serve as a member of the CGP Leadership Team
• Identify operational challenges and recommend corrective actions
• Prepare reports on findings, program performance, and progress
• Staff supervision & development
• Provide direct supervision to Social Work Supervisors
• Conduct performance evaluations and ongoing coaching
• Develop professional growth and development plans
• Supervise social work interns as needed
• Participate in interviewing and recommending qualified candidates for employment
• Client care & case oversight
• Maintain an office presence three to four days per week
• Be available outside normal business hours, including weekends, as needed
• Travel throughout New York City to visit clients and support program operations
• Additional responsibilities
• Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements

• Education: Master's degree in: Social Work (MSW), Public Administration, Counseling, Gerontology, Psychology, or a closely related field
• Licensure: New York State Licensed Social Worker (LMSW/LCSW) preferred
• Experience: Experience supervising social service professionals, experience managing complex client service operations, experience working with vulnerable populations preferred, experience leading multidisciplinary teams in a fast-paced environment

Skills & Competencies

• Strong leadership and supervisory skills
• Ability to provide professional guidance and mentorship
• Excellent collaboration and relationship-building skills
• Strong crisis management and problem-solving abilities
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to remain calm under pressure while leading teams through complex situations
• Commitment to JASA's mission and the Community Guardian Program
• Appreciation for diversity, equity, and inclusion when serving clients and families
• Understanding of the impact of race, ethnicity, religion, culture, sexual orientation, and individual values in service delivery