Social and Community Service Manager
1. OVERVIEW
Social and community service managers coordinate and oversee programs that support public well-being, helping to improve the quality of life for individuals and communities. They work with social service programs, ensuring they are efficiently managed and meet the needs of the target population. This role typically requires strong organizational, leadership, and communication skills.
Quick Facts: Social and Community Service Managers
Median Pay (2024): $78,240 per year, $37.61 per hour
Typical Entry-Level Education: Bachelor's degree
Work Experience in a Related Occupation: Less than 5 years
On-the-job Training: None
Number of Jobs (2023): 199,500
Job Outlook (2023-33): 8% (Faster than average)
Employment Change (2023-33): 16,400 openings projected each year
Role Breakdown by Level
Entry-Level Role
Job Titles: Social Services Coordinator, Case Manager, Assistant Program Director
Education: Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Public Policy, Sociology, or a related field
Experience: No prior experience required, though internships or volunteer work in social services can be beneficial
Core Responsibilities:
Assist in managing social service programs
Coordinate with community organizations
Evaluate the effectiveness of social service programs
Provide direct services to clients in need
Salary Range: $50,000 - $60,000 per year
Mid-Level Role
Job Titles: Social and Community Service Program Manager, Senior Case Manager, Program Director
Education: Bachelor’s degree required; some positions may prefer or require a master’s degree in Social Work, Public Administration, or related fields
Experience: 2-5 years in social services or related fields, including supervisory responsibilities
Core Responsibilities:
Oversee and implement social service programs
Supervise and mentor junior staff
Manage budgets and resources for programs
Develop and manage outreach activities
Report program effectiveness to upper management or funders
Salary Range: $60,000 - $80,000 per year
Senior-Level Role
Job Titles: Director of Social Services, Executive Director of a Social Services Organization, Senior Manager
Education: Master’s degree in Social Work, Public Administration, or a related field often required
Experience: 5+ years in the field, including extensive experience in management or leadership roles
Core Responsibilities:
Lead and manage large-scale community service programs
Oversee multiple social service teams and program operations
Secure funding through proposals and partnerships
Ensure compliance with legal and regulatory standards
Represent the organization in meetings with funders, stakeholders, and community partners
Salary Range: $80,000 - $120,000+ per year
How to Become One
Education
Entry-Level: A bachelor’s degree in social work, public policy, sociology, or a related field is typically required.
Mid-Level: Some positions require a master’s degree in social work, public administration, or a related field.
Senior-Level: A master’s degree is often required for those in leadership positions, especially in larger organizations.
Experience
Entry-Level: Internships or volunteer work in social services are helpful for gaining experience.
Mid-Level: 2-5 years in the social services field, including direct service and some supervisory experience.
Senior-Level: 5+ years in management or leadership, with proven success in program management, budgeting, and staff supervision.
Skills and Qualities
Analytical Skills: Ability to assess program effectiveness using data.
Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication to work with clients, staff, and stakeholders.
Managerial Skills: Experience in leading and managing teams, as well as overseeing program budgets.
Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to find creative solutions to the challenges faced by clients and staff.
Time-Management Skills: Ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple responsibilities, and meet deadlines.
Certifications
No mandatory certification required for most roles, but certifications in project management (such as PMP) or social work (such as LCSW) may be helpful for career advancement.
Work Environment
Setting: Social and community service managers work in a variety of settings, including nonprofit organizations, government agencies, hospitals, nursing homes, shelters, and schools.
Hours: Most social and community service managers work full time. Some may work over 40 hours a week depending on program needs and deadlines.
Travel: Travel to meet with clients, conduct outreach activities, or attend conferences may be required.
Pay
Median Annual Salary (2024): $78,240
Highest Earners: $129,820 (top 10%)
Lowest Earners: $50,020 (bottom 10%)
Top Industries for Employment:
Local Government: $101,620
Religious, Grantmaking, Civic, and Professional Organizations: $77,320
Individual and Family Services: $74,710
Community Services and Vocational Rehabilitation: $73,110
Nursing and Residential Care Facilities: $70,610
Job Outlook
Employment for social and community service managers is projected to grow by 8% from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations.
Openings are expected to occur as a result of workers transferring to other fields or retiring.
Growth Drivers:
The aging population and the increased demand for adult daycare and elder care services.
Growing demand for addiction treatment services and community-based mental health care.
Resources for Learning & Advancement
Courses & Certifications
National Association of Social Workers (NASW): Provides resources and certifications for social workers.
Social Work Degrees: Many universities offer specialized programs in social work and community services management.
Public Administration Certifications: Helpful for advancing into higher management roles.
Books
"The Social Work Skills Workbook" by Barry Cournoyer
"Social Work with Groups" by Charles D. Garvin
Videos & Communities
YouTube: Channels such as “Social Work and Social Service Careers” provide insights into day-to-day responsibilities.
Podcasts: “The Social Work Podcast” offers discussions on trends and best practices in the field.
Reddit: r/socialwork and other forums where social workers and managers exchange advice and resources.
Regional Data & Employment Trends
Hot Markets: Employment opportunities are expected to grow rapidly in urban areas, particularly in communities with large aging populations (e.g., California, Florida, and New York).
Emerging Trends: The increasing use of technology in social services, such as telehealth and online social work tools, may drive demand for social service managers with tech-savvy skills.
