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  • Program Specialist (Community Outreach)

    Sacramento, California United States City of Sacramento, CA Full Time $89,981.78 - $126,613.40 Annually Jul 30, 2025
    City of Sacramento Employer:

    City of Sacramento, CA

    The City of Sacramento, Sacramento County, California, was founded in 1849, and is the oldest incorporated city in California. In 1920, Sacramento City voters adopted a City Charter (municipal constitution) and a City Council-City Manager form of government, which are still used today. The City Council consists of a Mayor elected by all City voters, and Councilmembers elected to represent the eight separate Council districts in the City. Each district is a separate geographical area with a population of about 51,000 residents. Each Councilmember must be a registered voter and live in the district they represent. Elected members serve 4 year terms and elections are staggered every two years in even numbered years. (Council District Information, including summary report of population and racial statistics). The Council establishes City policies, ordinances, and land uses; approves the City's annual budget, contracts, and agreements; hears appeals of decisions made by City staff or citizen advisory groups; and appoints four Charter Officers, a City Manager, City Attorney, City Treasurer, and City Clerk. Councilmembers serve on several working committees, such as Law and Legislation, and Personnel and Public Employees. In 2002, City voters amended the City Charter and established a Compensation Commission to set the compensation for the Mayor, Council members and public members of City boards and commissions. This Charter Amendment also established the Mayor's position as a full-time job. The City also has a Legislative Affairs Unit; it's primary purpose is to advocate, coordinate and advance the City's legislative agenda to enhance the City's ability to govern and provide essential municipal and community services.             

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    Job Description

    THE POSITION

    Under general direction the Program Specialist plans, directs, and supervises all of the activities of a major department or Citywide program or project with moderate visibility and impact; conducts studies and makes recommendations; monitors program compliance; represents the department in contacts with media, internal and external agencies, and organizations.

    DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

    This advanced journey level class in the professional series is populated with multiple incumbents. The Program Specialist is distinguished from the next lower class of Program Analyst in that the Program Specialist manages multiple programs or moderately visible programs with greater department or Citywide impact. This class is distinguished from the next higher classification of Program Manager in that the Manager is responsible for administration and management of programs and projects with high visibility and substantial Citywide impact.

    This class is distinguished from the class of Administrative Officer in that the latter is responsible for all internal administrative functions for a department.

    SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

    General direction is provided by a department or division head. Some assignments require responsibility for direct or indirect supervision of lower level professional, technical, and clerical personnel. Some positions function as internal consultants and require coordination among multiple divisions in a department.

    ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

    • Plans, coordinates, and administers, a project or program with department or Citywide impact; supervises, trains and evaluates the work of professional, technical and clerical staff.
    • Confers with department heads, division managers, members of professional staff, and other officials concerning the administrative needs and requirements related to the program or project; represents the program in contacts with news media, business and civic organizations, other City departments, and various outside public and private agencies.
    • Interprets new policies, procedures, and regulations, and develops new or amended programs or projects as need dictates, monitors program objectives to assure compliance with State and administrative regulations and program guidelines.
    • Conducts studies and surveys, performs research and analysis and prepares recommendations for department management; monitors and evaluates program effectiveness and outcomes; creates and implements program policies and procedures; develops guidelines, forms and related documents.
    • Reviews grant opportunities; compiles and analyzes information for preparation of grants, contracts and agreements; negotiates terms; implements, monitors and prepares reports on conduct and performance of grants.
    • Identifies program, project or system enhancements; selects and coordinates installation of new and revised programs and systems.
    • Provides exceptional customer service to those contacted in the course of work.
    • Other related duties may also be performed; not all duties listed are necessarily performed by each individual holding this classification.


    QUALIFICATIONS

    Knowledge of:
    • Principles and practices of public administration and governmental finance, budgeting, and accounting.
    • Procurement methods.
    • Research techniques, methods and procedures.
    • Methods and practices of modern office management.
    • Principles and practices of program management and administration.
    • Technical report writing.
    • Methods of analysis.
    • Principles and practices of supervision.
    Skill in:
    • Managing multiple tasks and deadlines.
    • Customer service, including dealing with people under stress, and problem solving.
    • Use of computers, computer applications, and software.
    Ability to:
    • Effectively plan, develop, and implement a comprehensive program with a broad scope and high degree of complexity.
    • Supervise and direct professional, technical, and clerical staff.
    • Analyze fiscal problems and make sound policy and procedural recommendations.
    • Make effective presentations to public officials, committees, and outside agencies.
    • Establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees and the general public.
    • Prepare technical and analytic reports.
    • Communicate effectively, orally and in writing.
    • Make program or project changes based on analysis of results, new legislation, or departmental changes.
    • Meet multiple deadlines.

    EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION

    Experience:

    Four years of progressively responsible professional-level administrative experience.

    -AND-

    Education:

    A Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited four-year college or university with major coursework in business or public administration or a closely related field.

    Note: It is highly desirable the required years of professional-level experience be attained in a governmental jurisdiction.

    Substitution:

    Additional qualifying experience may substitute for the required education on a year for year basis.

    PROOF OF EDUCATION

    Should education be used to qualify for this position, then proof of education such as, but not limited to, university/college transcripts and degrees should be submitted with your application and will be required at the time of appointment. Unofficial documents and/or copies are acceptable.

    An applicant with a college degree obtained outside the United States must have education records evaluated by a credentials evaluation service. Evaluation of education records will be due at time of appointment.

    THE SELECTION PROCEDURE

    Please note, the City of Sacramento's preferred method of communication with applicants is via e-mail. As such, please ensure you verify the e-mail address on your application, and check your e-mail frequently, including your spam and junk folders. All e-mail notifications can also be accessed through the governmentjobs.com applicant inbox.

    1. Application: (Pass/Fail) - All applicants must complete and submit online a City of Sacramento employment application by the final filing deadline ;
    • Employment applications must be submitted online; paper applications will not be accepted.
    • Employment applications will be considered incomplete and will be disqualified:
      • If applicants do not list current and past job-related experience in the duties area of the "Work Experience" section. Note: Qualifying experience is based on full-time experience (40 hours per week). Qualifying experience is calculated to the full-time equivalent (pro-rated if less than 40 hours/week).
      • If "see resume" is noted in the "Work Experience" section; a resume will not substitute for the information required in the "Work Experience" section.
    • Position/job titles will not be considered in determining eligibility for meeting the minimum qualifications for this position.
    • Proof of education such as, but not limited to, university/college transcripts and degrees should be submitted online with your application. Proof of education will be required at time of appointment.

    2. Supplemental Questionnaire: (Pass/Fail) - In addition to the City of Sacramento employment application, all applicants must complete and submit online responses to the supplemental questionnaire to the City of Sacramento Employment Office by the final filing deadline ;
    • Responses to the supplemental questionnaire must be submitted online; paper questionnaire will not be accepted.
    • Incomplete supplemental questionnaire will not pass the review process; omitted information cannot be considered or assumed.
    • A resume will not substitute for the information required in the supplemental questionnaire.
    • Possession of the minimum qualifications is not necessarily a guarantee for further advancement in the selection process.

    3. Screening Committee: (Pass/Fail) - All applications received by the final filing deadline will be forwarded to the hiring department for review. The hiring department will select the most competitive applications for further consideration. Human Resources will only evaluate employment applications for the minimum qualifications, as stated on the job announcement, for applications selected by the hiring department.

    4. Interview Process: Human Resources will forward applications to the hiring department. Those determined to be the most qualified candidates will be invited to participate in an interview process.

    5. Conditional Hire: Upon receipt of a conditional offer, the selected candidate must complete and pass Live Scan/fingerprinting. If applicable, candidates may also need to pass a pre-employment medical exam, controlled substance and/or alcohol test, and possess any required licensure or certification prior to receiving a start date from the Department. Failure to meet these prerequisites will be grounds for withdrawal of your conditional offer of employment.

    QUESTIONS:
    For questions concerning this job announcement and the application process:
    • Please visit https://www.governmentjobs.com/Home/ApplicationGuide for a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to the application process.
    • For technical support between 6 AM - 5 PM PT, contact Live Application Support at 855-524-5627.
    • Visit the City of Sacramento Human Resources Department website at https://www.cityofsacramento.gov/HR/employment ;
    • Send an email to employment@cityofsacramento.org ; or
    • Call the Human Resources Department at (916) 808-5726


    Bilingual Pay
    Did you know that the City offers bilingual pay? That's right, most labor agreements offer the option of providing employees with bilingual pay if the department deems it to be operationally necessary.

    Pension Reform Act
    The City of Sacramento is covered by the California Public Employees' Retirement System, and as such, must adhere to the California Public Employee's Pension Reform Act (PEPRA) of 2013. Please note that the provisions within this act may affect or impact an applicant's eligibility and/or selection for open vacancies at the City of Sacramento.

    Equal Opportunity Employer
    The City of Sacramento is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.

    Additional Information

    Civil Service Rules: https://www.cityofsacramento.gov/content/dam/portal/hr/documentlibrary/CivilServiceBoardRules62012.pdf

    Union Contracts: https://www.cityofsacramento.gov/HR/labor-agreements.html

    Salary Schedule: https://www.cityofsacramento.gov/content/dam/portal/hr/documentlibrary/SalarySchedule.pdf

    Closing Date/Time: 8/12/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
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    Please mention you found this employment opportunity on the CareersInGovernment.com job board.

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Government Social Service Jobs: Roles, Skills, & Opportunities

Government Social Service Jobs: Roles, Skills, & Opportunities

Are you searching for a stable career that allows you to make a difference in your community? Government social service jobs offer many opportunities to help improve lives and support public welfare. Whether you’re interested in working with families, veterans, children, or individuals with disabilities, government roles provide meaningful work with long-term employment security.

This guide will explain the key roles in government social services, the qualifications you’ll need, and how to get started on this fulfilling career path.

 

Key Types of Government Social Service Jobs

Government social services span a variety of roles, allowing you to focus on areas that align with your passion and expertise. Here are some of the most common positions you can pursue:

Social Workers:

Social workers are critical in supporting individuals and families facing social, health, or emotional challenges. They conduct assessments, develop treatment plans, and connect clients with vital resources. Social workers can specialize in child welfare, mental health, or healthcare, and many roles are available in agencies like the Veterans Affairs and state departments of human services.

Child Welfare Specialists:

These professionals protect children from abuse and neglect while supporting families in crisis. They are often responsible for investigating reports of child abuse and working toward family reunification when possible. Child welfare specialists may work in foster care, adoption services, and family preservation programs.

Community Outreach Coordinators:

Coordinators bridge the gap between government services and the community, ensuring that vital resources are accessible to those who need them. These professionals organize public events, educate the community about government programs, and gather feedback on improving social services.

Rehabilitation Counselors:

Rehabilitation counselors work with individuals with disabilities, helping them achieve personal and professional goals. They assess clients’ abilities, develop rehabilitation plans, and assist with job placement. Specializations include vocational rehabilitation and substance abuse recovery.

Substance Abuse Counselors:

These counselors provide support to individuals struggling with addiction by offering individual and group therapy, conducting assessments, and developing treatment plans. Substance abuse counselors often work in government-run treatment centers and community health clinics.

Elderly Services Coordinators:

Elderly services coordinators manage programs that help older adults access healthcare, social engagement, and transportation services. They advocate for senior citizens’ rights and ensure their needs are met in a safe and supportive environment.

Disability Services Specialists:

These specialists ensure equal access and opportunities for individuals with disabilities by advocating for accessibility, coordinating support services, and helping to implement disability policies across government agencies.

Disability Services Specialists:

These specialists ensure equal access and opportunities for individuals with disabilities by advocating for accessibility, coordinating support services, and helping to implement disability policies across government agencies.

 

Education and Qualifications for Government Social Service Jobs

A career in government social services generally requires a combination of education, experience, and relevant certifications. Here’s a breakdown of the typical qualifications needed for various roles:

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Educational Requirements

  • Bachelor’s Degree: Most entry-level positions in government social services require at least a bachelor’s degree in social work, human services, psychology, or public administration. For specific roles, degrees like education or nursing may also be acceptable.
  • Master’s Degree: Advanced positions, such as clinical social work or rehabilitation counseling, typically require a master’s degree. Standard options include a Master of Social Work (MSW), a Master of Public Administration (MPA), or a Master’s in Psychology or Counseling.
  • Doctoral Degree: While rare for most positions, a Ph.D. in Social Work, Public Policy, or Public Administration can benefit those pursuing high-level roles in administrative services, policy-making, or research.

Licenses and Certifications

Certain roles in government social services require specific certifications and licenses:

  • Social Work License: Clinical social work positions often require a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) or similar designation. This requires passing an exam after completing an MSW and supervised hours.
  • Counseling Certifications: A Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) or Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) certification may be required for roles like substance abuse or mental health counseling.
  • Child Welfare Certification: Some states require additional certification for child welfare specialists, which may include passing an exam after completing specific training.
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Other Key Qualifications

Experience:

Government agencies often value practical experience in addition to formal education. Internships, volunteer work, or entry-level roles in human services can help build your qualifications. For advanced positions, several years of experience may be required.

Language Skills:

Being bilingual, especially in languages other than English, can be a significant asset when working with diverse communities.

Technology Skills:

Many government roles require proficiency in case management software, data analysis, and office tools. Some positions, especially in administrative services, may also require skills in areas like social media management or research.

 

Continuing Education

Government social service professionals must complete continuing education to maintain their licenses or certifications. Agencies like the California Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control or research organizations like the National Institute of Mental Health may provide training on emerging social services practices and new policies. Staying updated on trends in mental health, family support, and public health is crucial for career growth.

 

Security Clearance

Some government social service jobs, particularly at the federal level or in departments like Veterans Affairs, may require a security clearance. The clearance level depends on the job’s sensitivity, particularly in roles related to national security or handling personal data. Obtaining clearance usually involves a detailed background check.

 

Where to Find Job Opportunities

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Government social service jobs can be found at the city, county, state, and federal levels. Key departments offering these positions include the California Department of Human Services, Veterans Affairs, and local health and human services agencies. You can also search for roles through job boards specific to government jobs, such as USAJobs.gov or state and local government websites.

To streamline your job search, many agencies offer email notifications and the option to click save on job postings that interest you. Explore positions in health, education, and disability services to find the right match for your skills.

 

Conclusion

Government social service jobs provide a rewarding and stable career path for those committed to positively impacting society. Whether you’re interested in working with children, families, veterans, or individuals with disabilities, these roles offer a unique opportunity to support communities and promote social well-being.

With the proper education, certifications, and a commitment to ongoing learning, you can embark on a fulfilling career in government social services. You can explore job opportunities in your area and find a role that aligns with your passion for helping others.

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