County of Sonoma
The County of Sonoma seeks an experienced and talented executive leader to work closely with the Director of Human Services to oversee administrative functions that support the department’s programs and service delivery to the community.
The annual salary for the Assistant Director of Human Services is $210,131 - $255,421* , depending upon experience.
Responsibilities As an integral member of the Executive team, the Assistant Director of Human Services is responsible for assisting the Director in the development, integration, and implementation of Human Services programs and functions; coordinating, analyzing, planning, and overseeing department-wide operations and services; ensuring operational compliance with federal, state, and local laws and regulations; assisting with budget strategy and enhancing partnerships by promoting departmental and county-wide initiatives; and representing Human Services at various local, regional, and statewide meetings. Additional responsibilities include:
Directing the work of administrative teams, which may include human resources, information technology, finance, facilities, contracts, special investigations, public information, compliance, care and shelter, satellite offices, and program research and evaluation
Reviewing and editing board items and attending Board of Supervisors meetings
Convening and leading meetings with internal and external stakeholders to foster relationships, provide information, and collaborate around shared goals
Reviewing and signing off on behalf of the director on various documents, including procurements and contracts, reimbursements, and HR forms
Taking a leadership role in efforts including disaster planning and response, special projects, community assessments, outreach and engagement, internal and external communication, change management, and strategic planning
Providing guidance, support, and resources to program divisions through the work of administrative teams
Representing the director and the department in various capacities, such as serving on committees, assisting other county departments, and making public presentations
Ideal Candidate
Experience in a leadership role within county government or in close collaboration with county government programs to deliver services to vulnerable populations
A high level of professionalism and a proven ability to successfully work both independently and as part of a collaborative team to achieve common goals across public, nonprofit, and private sectors
Knowledge of regulations, requirements, and state/federal funding streams for human services programs, along with the ability to interpret and implement federal, state, and local legislation and policies related to the department workforce and delivery of services
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively present information to elected officials and large groups of people including employees, community partners, and the public
The ability to successfully manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, navigate challenges, and identify solutions to support employees and provide high quality services
Strong political acumen, with experience working with elected and appointed public officials as well as community leaders, stakeholders, and board members
A high level of integrity, along with the ability to adapt to change, think critically and creatively, identify and mitigate risk, and serve the public with compassion, dignity, and humility
The ability to work with a diverse group of employees and community members with a strong commitment to furthering equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging both internally and in service delivery to the community
A passion for and the ability to successfully motivate teams and develop employees
Knowledge of contracting, budgeting, and employee performance management in a public union environment
A commitment to professional growth, with a high degree of emotional intelligence and the ability to learn and evolve as a leader
About The Human Services Department (HSD) The vision of the Human Services Department is to support people in our community to live freely chosen lives up to their full potential throughout their lifespan. The Department's mission is building upon strengths, we bridge people to opportunity through responsive safety net services. HSD programs support the health, safety, and well‑being of more than 150,000 individuals in the community. With a staff of just over 1,000 employees and an operating budget of $334 million, Human Services is the largest department in the County. HSD staff provide services from 12 separate locations across the county, through the following divisions:
Adult and Aging Division : helps to ensure the safety, independence, and well‑being of older adults, people with disabilities, and veterans and their families.
Economic Assistance Division : helps individuals and families gain access to medical insurance benefits, money for food, and other services to meet basic needs.
Employment and Training Division : assists individuals and families with financial assistance, job search, and employment and training services.
Family, Youth, and Children Division : helps ensure the safety and well‑being of children and teens that experience abuse, neglect, or abandonment.
Administration Division : works to support staff and program divisions to provide effective services to the community, as well as supporting various functions crucial to the operations of the department and the County.
Benefits Of County Employment
Hybrid Telework – A schedule that meets the needs of our staff, department operations, and the communities we serve may be available depending on the assignment.
Salary Advancement – A salary increase after 1,040 hours (6 months when working full-time) for good work performance; eligibility for a salary increase for good performance every year thereafter, until reaching the top of the salary range.
Paid Time Off – Competitive vacation accrual and additional management leave annually; 12 paid holidays, and an additional 8 floating holiday hours per year; generous sick leave accruals.
Health Benefits – A range of health plans with several options in which the premium benefits cover 100% of the employee’s cost; dental, vision, disability, life insurance, wellness and professional development, and more.
Retirement – County Employees Retirement Law of 1937. Retirement is fully integrated with Social Security. New employees, as defined and eligible, will be PEPRA plan members and receive a 2.5% at 67 formula, or for those individuals who meet certain criteria, including establishing reciprocity eligibility, will be Legacy plan members and receive 3% at 60.
Incentive Retirement Saving Plan – A defined contribution 401(a) plan; a 3% County “foundation” contribution and voluntary IRS 457 plan Pre‑Tax employee contribution up to IRS annual maximum, plus a 100% County match of employee contribution deposit into the 401(a) account (up to 1% of base salary).
Post‑Retirement Medical – County contribution to a Health Reimbursement Arrangement to help fund post‑retirement employee health insurance/benefits.
Additional Benefits – Excellent dental, vision, disability, life insurance, employee assistance program, professional development, and more.
Relocation Reimbursement – Reimbursement may be authorized for the successful candidate.
Cell Phone Stipend – Optional monthly stipend of $50/month (if not assigned a County‑issued phone).
Employee Assistance Program – County offered at no employee cost.
Salary is negotiable within the established range. Benefits described herein do not represent a contract and may be changed without notice. Additional information can be found in the Salary Resolution (SalRes) and our Employee Benefits Directory.
Tentative Interview and Selection Process Time Frame
Applications accepted until January 5th, 2026, at 11:59pm.
Invitations to the initial selection interview will be issued the week of January 12th, 2026.
First round interviews will be conducted the week of January 19th, 2026.
Final selection interviews will be conducted the week of January 26th, 2026.
Start date will be in March 2026.
Application Submission and Requirements Application submissions require the Supplemental Questionnaire to be completed.
Experience Any combination of experience which would provide an opportunity to acquire the knowledge and abilities listed. Normally, four years of increasingly responsible management experience in a large organization, including program planning and evaluation, budget management, personnel management and performance evaluation, policy development and provision of community services would provide such opportunity. Experience managing a human services organization or large division of such an organization is highly desirable.
Education Any combination of education and training which would provide the opportunity to acquire the knowledge and abilities listed. Normally, graduation from an accredited college or university with a degree in human services administration, public administration, social work, business administration, economics, psychology, or sociology or a closely related field would provide such opportunity. Possession of a Masters degree is highly desirable.
Knowledge and Ability Thorough knowledge of the social and economic problems affecting public services; communication and conflict resolution; principles and practices of budget and fiscal management, supervision, training, and administration of public services; principles and techniques of statistical and quantitative management analysis; grant sources; public information and contract administration; intergovernmental relationships and regulations affecting delivery of public services; legislation and laws that regulate the operation of the Human Services Department; and modern methods of human services administration.
Considerable knowledge of the principles, practices, and methods used in public service programs; social and economic problems that call for the use of public and private services; program planning, evaluation and monitoring; principles and application of budget preparation and public funding; research methods and techniques; and personnel management.
Knowledge of federal, state and local laws, ordinances, rules and regulations relating to the management and operations of public service programs; research methodology, report writing and basic statistics.
Ability to plan, organize and direct comprehensive public service programs; understand, interpret and explain laws, regulations and policies governing public service programs and operations; develop goals and objectives; supervise and evaluate the performance of subordinate managers, professional and administrative staff; identify and analyze administrative problems and implement operational changes; present and direct in‑service training programs; analyze problems and adopt an effective course of action; organize inter‑departmental operations; assist in the preparation and justification of the department’s budget; respond to and promote effective media relations; make presentations to elected officials; establish and maintain cooperative working relationships; communicate effectively both verbally and in writing; coordinate and integrate program components in a cohesive and effective service delivery system; secure cooperation and teamwork among professionals and support staff.
Supplemental Questionnaire Guidance
Your application information and your responses to the supplemental questions are evaluated and taken into consideration throughout the entire selection process.
You should list all employers and positions held within the last fifteen years in the work history section of your application. Be as thorough as possible when responding to the supplemental questions.
You may include history beyond fifteen years if related to the position for which you are applying. If you held multiple positions with one employer, list each position separately.
Failure to follow these instructions may impact your competitiveness in this process or may result in disqualification.
Important Notes Due to the selection procedure listed above, it is important that you make every attempt to clearly describe your qualifications for this position. We recommend that you list all employers and positions held within at least the last 15 years in the work history section of your application, and to include history beyond 15 years if related to the position for which you are applying. If you held multiple positions with one employer, please list each position separately. In addition, be sure to respond thoroughly and clearly to the supplemental questions at the end of this job bulletin.
Resumes can be submitted or inserted into the online application; however they will not be accepted in lieu of a fully completed job application and supplemental question responses.
Additional Information A background investigation is required prior to employment. Candidates referred to departments for a selection interview are typically required to sign authorization and release forms enabling such an investigation. Failure to sign prescribed forms will result in the candidate not being considered further for this vacancy. Reference information will not be made available to applicants.
Additional requirements, such as successful completion of a physical exam, drug screen, etc., may apply, depending on the duties and responsibilities of the position. If you receive a conditional job offer for the position, the requirements upon which the offer is contingent will be outlined in the conditional job letter. You may also review the Job Classification Screening Schedule to determine the requirements for this position.
How to Apply Applications are accepted online at:
www.yourpath2sonomacounty.org . Paper applications may be submitted by person, fax (707‑565‑3770), email, or through the mail. All applications and appropriate supplemental information as outlined in the job bulletin must be received by the time and date specified on the first page of this job announcement. Applications received after the recruitment closes will not be accepted.
The County of Sonoma values diversity and is dedicated to creating a workplace environment that provides individuals with a sense of belonging. We are committed to having a diverse workforce that is representative of the communities we serve. The County is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer where all aspects of employment are based on merit, competence, performance, and business need.
Contact Questions about this recruitment, eligibility for interview travel reimbursement, or our relocation policy:
Eric Payne, phone 707‑565‑2960, email eric.payne@sonomacounty.gov .
Questions about the position:
Jenipher McMillan, phone 707‑565‑5848, email jmcmilla@sonomacounty-hsd.gov .
#J-18808-Ljbffr
The annual salary for the Assistant Director of Human Services is $210,131 - $255,421* , depending upon experience.
Responsibilities As an integral member of the Executive team, the Assistant Director of Human Services is responsible for assisting the Director in the development, integration, and implementation of Human Services programs and functions; coordinating, analyzing, planning, and overseeing department-wide operations and services; ensuring operational compliance with federal, state, and local laws and regulations; assisting with budget strategy and enhancing partnerships by promoting departmental and county-wide initiatives; and representing Human Services at various local, regional, and statewide meetings. Additional responsibilities include:
Directing the work of administrative teams, which may include human resources, information technology, finance, facilities, contracts, special investigations, public information, compliance, care and shelter, satellite offices, and program research and evaluation
Reviewing and editing board items and attending Board of Supervisors meetings
Convening and leading meetings with internal and external stakeholders to foster relationships, provide information, and collaborate around shared goals
Reviewing and signing off on behalf of the director on various documents, including procurements and contracts, reimbursements, and HR forms
Taking a leadership role in efforts including disaster planning and response, special projects, community assessments, outreach and engagement, internal and external communication, change management, and strategic planning
Providing guidance, support, and resources to program divisions through the work of administrative teams
Representing the director and the department in various capacities, such as serving on committees, assisting other county departments, and making public presentations
Ideal Candidate
Experience in a leadership role within county government or in close collaboration with county government programs to deliver services to vulnerable populations
A high level of professionalism and a proven ability to successfully work both independently and as part of a collaborative team to achieve common goals across public, nonprofit, and private sectors
Knowledge of regulations, requirements, and state/federal funding streams for human services programs, along with the ability to interpret and implement federal, state, and local legislation and policies related to the department workforce and delivery of services
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively present information to elected officials and large groups of people including employees, community partners, and the public
The ability to successfully manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, navigate challenges, and identify solutions to support employees and provide high quality services
Strong political acumen, with experience working with elected and appointed public officials as well as community leaders, stakeholders, and board members
A high level of integrity, along with the ability to adapt to change, think critically and creatively, identify and mitigate risk, and serve the public with compassion, dignity, and humility
The ability to work with a diverse group of employees and community members with a strong commitment to furthering equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging both internally and in service delivery to the community
A passion for and the ability to successfully motivate teams and develop employees
Knowledge of contracting, budgeting, and employee performance management in a public union environment
A commitment to professional growth, with a high degree of emotional intelligence and the ability to learn and evolve as a leader
About The Human Services Department (HSD) The vision of the Human Services Department is to support people in our community to live freely chosen lives up to their full potential throughout their lifespan. The Department's mission is building upon strengths, we bridge people to opportunity through responsive safety net services. HSD programs support the health, safety, and well‑being of more than 150,000 individuals in the community. With a staff of just over 1,000 employees and an operating budget of $334 million, Human Services is the largest department in the County. HSD staff provide services from 12 separate locations across the county, through the following divisions:
Adult and Aging Division : helps to ensure the safety, independence, and well‑being of older adults, people with disabilities, and veterans and their families.
Economic Assistance Division : helps individuals and families gain access to medical insurance benefits, money for food, and other services to meet basic needs.
Employment and Training Division : assists individuals and families with financial assistance, job search, and employment and training services.
Family, Youth, and Children Division : helps ensure the safety and well‑being of children and teens that experience abuse, neglect, or abandonment.
Administration Division : works to support staff and program divisions to provide effective services to the community, as well as supporting various functions crucial to the operations of the department and the County.
Benefits Of County Employment
Hybrid Telework – A schedule that meets the needs of our staff, department operations, and the communities we serve may be available depending on the assignment.
Salary Advancement – A salary increase after 1,040 hours (6 months when working full-time) for good work performance; eligibility for a salary increase for good performance every year thereafter, until reaching the top of the salary range.
Paid Time Off – Competitive vacation accrual and additional management leave annually; 12 paid holidays, and an additional 8 floating holiday hours per year; generous sick leave accruals.
Health Benefits – A range of health plans with several options in which the premium benefits cover 100% of the employee’s cost; dental, vision, disability, life insurance, wellness and professional development, and more.
Retirement – County Employees Retirement Law of 1937. Retirement is fully integrated with Social Security. New employees, as defined and eligible, will be PEPRA plan members and receive a 2.5% at 67 formula, or for those individuals who meet certain criteria, including establishing reciprocity eligibility, will be Legacy plan members and receive 3% at 60.
Incentive Retirement Saving Plan – A defined contribution 401(a) plan; a 3% County “foundation” contribution and voluntary IRS 457 plan Pre‑Tax employee contribution up to IRS annual maximum, plus a 100% County match of employee contribution deposit into the 401(a) account (up to 1% of base salary).
Post‑Retirement Medical – County contribution to a Health Reimbursement Arrangement to help fund post‑retirement employee health insurance/benefits.
Additional Benefits – Excellent dental, vision, disability, life insurance, employee assistance program, professional development, and more.
Relocation Reimbursement – Reimbursement may be authorized for the successful candidate.
Cell Phone Stipend – Optional monthly stipend of $50/month (if not assigned a County‑issued phone).
Employee Assistance Program – County offered at no employee cost.
Salary is negotiable within the established range. Benefits described herein do not represent a contract and may be changed without notice. Additional information can be found in the Salary Resolution (SalRes) and our Employee Benefits Directory.
Tentative Interview and Selection Process Time Frame
Applications accepted until January 5th, 2026, at 11:59pm.
Invitations to the initial selection interview will be issued the week of January 12th, 2026.
First round interviews will be conducted the week of January 19th, 2026.
Final selection interviews will be conducted the week of January 26th, 2026.
Start date will be in March 2026.
Application Submission and Requirements Application submissions require the Supplemental Questionnaire to be completed.
Experience Any combination of experience which would provide an opportunity to acquire the knowledge and abilities listed. Normally, four years of increasingly responsible management experience in a large organization, including program planning and evaluation, budget management, personnel management and performance evaluation, policy development and provision of community services would provide such opportunity. Experience managing a human services organization or large division of such an organization is highly desirable.
Education Any combination of education and training which would provide the opportunity to acquire the knowledge and abilities listed. Normally, graduation from an accredited college or university with a degree in human services administration, public administration, social work, business administration, economics, psychology, or sociology or a closely related field would provide such opportunity. Possession of a Masters degree is highly desirable.
Knowledge and Ability Thorough knowledge of the social and economic problems affecting public services; communication and conflict resolution; principles and practices of budget and fiscal management, supervision, training, and administration of public services; principles and techniques of statistical and quantitative management analysis; grant sources; public information and contract administration; intergovernmental relationships and regulations affecting delivery of public services; legislation and laws that regulate the operation of the Human Services Department; and modern methods of human services administration.
Considerable knowledge of the principles, practices, and methods used in public service programs; social and economic problems that call for the use of public and private services; program planning, evaluation and monitoring; principles and application of budget preparation and public funding; research methods and techniques; and personnel management.
Knowledge of federal, state and local laws, ordinances, rules and regulations relating to the management and operations of public service programs; research methodology, report writing and basic statistics.
Ability to plan, organize and direct comprehensive public service programs; understand, interpret and explain laws, regulations and policies governing public service programs and operations; develop goals and objectives; supervise and evaluate the performance of subordinate managers, professional and administrative staff; identify and analyze administrative problems and implement operational changes; present and direct in‑service training programs; analyze problems and adopt an effective course of action; organize inter‑departmental operations; assist in the preparation and justification of the department’s budget; respond to and promote effective media relations; make presentations to elected officials; establish and maintain cooperative working relationships; communicate effectively both verbally and in writing; coordinate and integrate program components in a cohesive and effective service delivery system; secure cooperation and teamwork among professionals and support staff.
Supplemental Questionnaire Guidance
Your application information and your responses to the supplemental questions are evaluated and taken into consideration throughout the entire selection process.
You should list all employers and positions held within the last fifteen years in the work history section of your application. Be as thorough as possible when responding to the supplemental questions.
You may include history beyond fifteen years if related to the position for which you are applying. If you held multiple positions with one employer, list each position separately.
Failure to follow these instructions may impact your competitiveness in this process or may result in disqualification.
Important Notes Due to the selection procedure listed above, it is important that you make every attempt to clearly describe your qualifications for this position. We recommend that you list all employers and positions held within at least the last 15 years in the work history section of your application, and to include history beyond 15 years if related to the position for which you are applying. If you held multiple positions with one employer, please list each position separately. In addition, be sure to respond thoroughly and clearly to the supplemental questions at the end of this job bulletin.
Resumes can be submitted or inserted into the online application; however they will not be accepted in lieu of a fully completed job application and supplemental question responses.
Additional Information A background investigation is required prior to employment. Candidates referred to departments for a selection interview are typically required to sign authorization and release forms enabling such an investigation. Failure to sign prescribed forms will result in the candidate not being considered further for this vacancy. Reference information will not be made available to applicants.
Additional requirements, such as successful completion of a physical exam, drug screen, etc., may apply, depending on the duties and responsibilities of the position. If you receive a conditional job offer for the position, the requirements upon which the offer is contingent will be outlined in the conditional job letter. You may also review the Job Classification Screening Schedule to determine the requirements for this position.
How to Apply Applications are accepted online at:
www.yourpath2sonomacounty.org . Paper applications may be submitted by person, fax (707‑565‑3770), email, or through the mail. All applications and appropriate supplemental information as outlined in the job bulletin must be received by the time and date specified on the first page of this job announcement. Applications received after the recruitment closes will not be accepted.
The County of Sonoma values diversity and is dedicated to creating a workplace environment that provides individuals with a sense of belonging. We are committed to having a diverse workforce that is representative of the communities we serve. The County is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer where all aspects of employment are based on merit, competence, performance, and business need.
Contact Questions about this recruitment, eligibility for interview travel reimbursement, or our relocation policy:
Eric Payne, phone 707‑565‑2960, email eric.payne@sonomacounty.gov .
Questions about the position:
Jenipher McMillan, phone 707‑565‑5848, email jmcmilla@sonomacounty-hsd.gov .
#J-18808-Ljbffr