Social and Community Service Managers
Overview
Plan, direct, or coordinate the activities of a social service program or community outreach organization. Oversee the program or organization's budget and policies regarding participant involvement, program requirements, and benefits. Work may involve directing social workers, counselors, or probation officers.
What do they do?
Social and community service managers coordinate and supervise programs and organizations that support public well-being. They direct workers who provide these services to the public. Social and community service managers work for a variety of organizations. Some of these organizations focus on working with a particular demographic, such as children, people who are homeless, older adults, or veterans. Others focus on helping people with particular challenges, such as substance abuse, mental health needs, and chronic hunger. Social and community service managers work for nonprofit organizations, for-profit social service companies, and government agencies. They also work in a variety of settings, including offices, clinics, hospitals, and shelters. Most social and community service managers work full time. Some work more than 40 hours per week.
How to become one
Social and community service managers typically need at least a bachelor’s degree and work experience. However, some positions also require a master’s degree.
Workers usually need experience in order to become a social and community service manager, and it is essential for those with a bachelor’s degree. Candidates can get this experience by working as a social worker, substance abuse counselor, or in a similar occupation.