Program Manager - Child & Family Services - Truancy and Educational Support

Recognized as one of the best places to work in Southeast Minnesota for three consecutive years, at Olmsted County every role helps to foster a vibrant community where everyone thrives. Our employees are at the heart of everything we do, driving public service excellence and community well-being.

We don’t just offer a job, we offer a career filled with purpose, growth, and fulfillment. Our benefits package ensures your wellbeing, while career advancement opportunities and professional development empower you to reach your full potential.

Join us, and you'll be part of a purpose-driven team where your work truly makes a difference. Together, we build a sustainable, healthy, and welcoming community.

Minimum Qualifications of Education and Experience

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university and four (4) years of full time, paid experience in a similar position as listed in the work functions.

OR

Master’s degree from an accredited college or university and three (3) years of full time, paid experience in a similar position as listed in the work functions.

OR

Combination of education and experience equivalent to eight (8) years of experience in a similar position as listed in the work functions.

Regular and reliable attendance is a necessary component of job/position. Individuals required to use County vehicles and equipment must have a valid driver’s license and be free of any major traffic violations for the last three (3) years.

Nature of Work

Under the general supervision of department directors, supervises truancy and education support staff that provide culturally responsive case management to students and families presenting with barriers to school attendance and participation. Provides individual and group consultation. Manages current programs, develops and supports use of practices and interventions that address root causes of school attendance issues; monitors, reviews and evaluates program standards using attendance data and program outcomes to ensure program goals are met; hires, trains and orientates new staff; interviews service recipients pertaining to cases involving difficult situations and performs related work as required. Represents the program in public facing venues and advocates for the needs of students and families. Presents information regarding truancy and attendance challenges to community stakeholders. Leverages the strengths of team members, clarifies roles and responsibilities, and develops employees to reach optimal goals.  Engage in collaborative meetings with internal partners, families, schools, organizations, county attorneys, and court personnel. Supports a diverse, respectful, and inclusive workplace.

Examples of Work

• Leads individuals and teams, builds and maintains engagement, and nurtures a culture of growth to promote a work environment where every employee can reach their full potential.
• Recommends hiring, promotions, and assignments for team members, and provides regular and timely feedback. Manages employee performance, documentation, and disciplinary actions. 
• Develops and implements new programs, including program goals and objectives, based on identified gaps and client needs.
• Reviews and monitors individual case records to assure compliance with policies, rules and regulations of County, State and Federal agencies.
• Monitors and evaluates program budget needs including approval of expenses and appropriate use of resources.
• Evaluates and analyzes existing program(s) and implements policies of agency to meet client objectives.
• Attends Board meetings, agency committees or other committees as assigned by Director.
• Interviews clients involving difficult case situations or complaints.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Thorough knowledge of the principles, techniques and practices of social work and social work supervision.
• Thorough knowledge of the federal program for social services as expressed in the Social Security Act.
• Thorough knowledge of the functions of other social services and financial agencies.
• Thorough knowledge of state social services programs.
• Considerable knowledge of social and economic problems.
• Considerable knowledge of the laws relevant to social service programs.
• Knowledge of basic project management principles.
• Knowledge of the principles of supervision.
• Skill in analytical thinking, problem solving and systems thinking.
• Skill in teamwork and interpersonal interaction.
• Skill in the use of computers and technology.
• Ability to supervise and direct the work of others to include discussing topics that may be difficult or challenging with staff and or peers.
• Ability to evaluate performance and foster professional development in others.
• Ability to effectively organize and prioritize workload.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Ability to analyze process functions, develop effective solutions and manage implementation of changes.
• Ability to work in a team-oriented, collaborative environment.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to research, interpret, and apply knowledge in efforts to ensure compliance with statutes and rules.