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How much does a Social Services Director make?

The average salary for a Social Services Director is $62,086 per year in the US.

A Social Services Director plays a key role in managing programs and services that help people in need. They work in various settings, including government agencies, non-profits, and healthcare organizations. The average yearly salary for this role is around $62,086. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the size of the organization.


Social Services Directors often earn more as they gain experience. Entry-level directors might start around $34,800 per year. Those with more experience can earn upwards of $145,000 annually. Factors like the location of the job and the type of organization can also affect salary. For example, directors in larger cities or well-funded non-profits may earn more. Understanding these factors can help job seekers set realistic salary expectations and plan their career paths.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Social Services Director?

Job seekers aiming for a Social Services Director role can find some of the highest salaries in California. San Francisco tops the list with an average salary of $125,865, followed closely by San Jose at $113,888. Other cities in California, like Santa Rosa and Sacramento, also offer competitive salaries. Outside of California, Austin, TX, and Houston, TX, provide attractive compensation packages for Social Services Directors. Austin offers an average salary of $77,539, while Houston provides $75,759. These cities present excellent opportunities for those in the field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Social Services Director jobs, highlighting San Francisco, CA with the highest at $125,865 and Fort Myers, FL with the lowest at $74,712.
  1. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $125,865
    In San Francisco, leading social services initiatives can be impactful. Nonprofits and government agencies offer diverse opportunities. Prominent organizations include the San Francisco Department of Children, Youth, and Their Families.
    Find Social Services Director jobs in San Francisco, CA


  2. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $113,888
    San Jose provides a dynamic environment for social service leaders. The city's growing population needs strong community support. Key employers include the City of San Jose and various local nonprofits.
    Find Social Services Director jobs in San Jose, CA


  3. Santa Rosa, CA
    Average Salary: $94,265
    Santa Rosa offers a chance to make a difference in a close-knit community. The city values social equity and inclusion. Local leaders work with organizations like the Sonoma County Department of Social Services.
    Find Social Services Director jobs in Santa Rosa, CA


  4. Sacramento, CA
    Average Salary: $84,821
    Sacramento is a hub for social service innovation. The state capital offers many opportunities to influence policy. Key employers include the California Department of Social Services and various advocacy groups.
    Find Social Services Director jobs in Sacramento, CA


  5. Fresno, CA
    Average Salary: $81,521
    Fresno provides a rewarding environment for social service professionals. The city's diverse population needs strong support systems. Local leaders work with organizations like the Fresno County Department of Social Services.
    Find Social Services Director jobs in Fresno, CA


  6. Austin, TX
    Average Salary: $77,539
    Austin offers a vibrant setting for social service leaders. The city's fast growth creates new challenges and opportunities. Key employers include the City of Austin and various nonprofit organizations.
    Find Social Services Director jobs in Austin, TX


  7. Houston, TX
    Average Salary: $75,759
    Houston provides a diverse environment for social service professionals. The city's large population needs extensive support services. Key employers include the City of Houston and various community organizations.
    Find Social Services Director jobs in Houston, TX


  8. Bakersfield, CA
    Average Salary: $75,705
    Bakersfield offers a rewarding environment for social service leaders. The city's growing community needs strong support systems. Local leaders work with organizations like the Kern County Department of Social Services.
    Find Social Services Director jobs in Bakersfield, CA


  9. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $75,092
    Washington, DC offers a unique environment for social service professionals. The city's diverse population needs extensive support services. Key employers include the District of Columbia Department of Human Services and various advocacy groups.
    Find Social Services Director jobs in Washington, DC


  10. Fort Myers, FL
    Average Salary: $74,712
    Fort Myers provides a supportive environment for social service leaders. The city's growing community needs strong support systems. Local leaders work with organizations like the Lee County Department of Human Services.
    Find Social Services Director jobs in Fort Myers, FL

What are the best companies a Social Services Director can work for?

Kaiser Permanente offers the highest salary for Social Services Directors, averaging around $150,000 annually. This makes it a top choice for those seeking a lucrative position in the field. Other notable companies include the State of New Mexico and Georgia Department of Human Services, both offering competitive salaries above $65,000 per year.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Social Services Director jobs, highlighting Kaiser Permanente with the highest at $149,861 and The Salvation Army with the lowest at $56,614.
  1. Kaiser Permanente
    Average Salary: $149,861
    Kaiser Permanente offers rewarding Social Services Director jobs. They operate in multiple states, including California, Washington, and Colorado. Their focus is on providing high-quality healthcare services. They value teamwork and innovation.


  2. State of New Mexico
    Average Salary: $65,786
    The State of New Mexico provides Social Services Director positions with a competitive salary. They serve communities across the state. Their mission is to improve the quality of life for residents. They offer a supportive work environment.


  3. Georgia Department of Human Services
    Average Salary: $65,487
    The Georgia Department of Human Services offers Social Services Director roles with a good salary. They operate throughout Georgia. Their goal is to support vulnerable populations. They emphasize teamwork and community service.


  4. State of Georgia
    Average Salary: $65,244
    The State of Georgia provides Social Services Director jobs with a solid salary. They serve communities across the state. Their focus is on public service and community well-being. They offer a collaborative work environment.


  5. Arkos Health
    Average Salary: $61,982
    Arkos Health offers Social Services Director positions with a competitive salary. They operate in several states, including Florida and Texas. Their mission is to improve patient care. They value innovation and teamwork.


  6. Windsor Care Centers
    Average Salary: $61,882
    Windsor Care Centers provides Social Services Director jobs with a good salary. They operate in multiple states, including California and New York. Their focus is on senior care. They offer a supportive work environment.


  7. Altercare Integrated Health Services
    Average Salary: $59,281
    Altercare Integrated Health Services offers Social Services Director roles with a solid salary. They operate in several states, including New York and New Jersey. Their mission is to provide quality care. They value teamwork and dedication.


  8. HEALTHCARE NURSING
    Average Salary: $57,312
    HEALTHCARE NURSING offers Social Services Director positions with a competitive salary. They operate in multiple states. Their focus is on providing quality healthcare services. They offer a supportive work environment.


  9. Catholic Charities
    Average Salary: $57,190
    Catholic Charities provides Social Services Director jobs with a good salary. They operate in several states, including New York and California. Their mission is to support the needy. They value compassion and community service.


  10. The Salvation Army
    Average Salary: $56,614
    The Salvation Army offers Social Services Director positions with a competitive salary. They operate in multiple states. Their focus is on helping those in need. They value teamwork and dedication.

How to earn more as a Social Services Director?

Aspiring Social Services Directors can enhance their earning potential by focusing on several key factors. Gaining advanced degrees, such as a Master’s in Social Work or a related field, often leads to higher salary brackets. Experience also plays a crucial role. Directors with a proven track record in managing programs and teams can command higher salaries. Networking within the industry opens doors to better opportunities and salary negotiations. Certifications in specialized areas, such as healthcare administration or nonprofit management, can also boost earning potential. Staying updated with the latest trends and technologies in social services management ensures competitiveness in the job market.

Another factor to consider is the size and location of the organization. Larger organizations in metropolitan areas typically offer higher salaries. Directors who manage larger budgets or oversee multiple programs may also see higher compensation. Professional development through workshops, seminars, and continuous education can lead to promotions and salary increases. Engaging in leadership roles within professional associations can also enhance career prospects and earnings. By focusing on these areas, Social Services Directors can position themselves for higher earning opportunities.

Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a Social Services Director:

  1. Advanced degrees
  2. Experience and track record
  3. Networking and industry connections
  4. Specialized certifications
  5. Professional development and leadership roles

Currently 215 Social Services Director job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Social Services Director in the US?

Learn what a Social Services Director does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Social Services Director today.
Position
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Social Services Director
215 Job Openings