Department Assistant Director

The salary for this position is: $9,543.00 - $12,725.00 monthly.

Thurston County Public Health and Social Services (PHSS) is recruiting for an Assistant Director
for our Administration Division.

As the Assistant Director of Public Health & Social Services, you play a key role responsible for assisting in the development and implementation of department and divisional plans and goals. You will collaborate between divisions to develop and implement public health policies aimed at reducing health disparities and improving access to essential services. Emphasizing community service and using your strong communication skills, you will advocate for organizational improvement, advancement, productivity, and build partnerships that enhance health outcomes.

Essential functions may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Act on behalf of the Department Director to manage and oversee operations, ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal regulations
• Evaluate operational program effectiveness and identify areas for improvement and potential service overlap using sound judgement, problem-solving techniques, and project management principles
• Assist the director in implementing the strategic vision and policies, focusing on operational aspects and performance management leading toward objective accomplishment
• Participate in preparing the annual budget and monitor divisional expenses by estimating and analyzing costs and effectiveness of programs
• Collect, analyze, and develop reports on research and data related to public health initiatives and present to stakeholders to aid in decision-making
• Develop policies and procedures post analysis of complex problems
• Ensure that responsibilities, authority, and accountability of all direct and indirect subordinates are defined, understood, and achieved while also offering guidance and support in their professional development
• Foster partnerships with community organizations, government agencies, and other stakeholders to promote public health initiatives
• Address and resolve sensitive inquiries, complaints, and issues from both internal and external sources and assist in matters regarding employee relations, labor relations, and risk management
• May act as representative for the department in collective bargaining negotiations, grievances, complaints, and other sensitive personnel matters
• Manage daily operations of divisional leadership and subject matter experts as well as special projects oversight
• May be asked to participate on committees, boards, councils, and/or other related groups, including representing the Department Director as required
• Ensure timely, accurate responses to email, research, reports, and data analysis and inquiries
• Respond to public health emergencies and coordinate resources during crises
• Perform other work as required or assigned, including, but not limited to, a 24/7 response during public health emergency situations and disease outbreak investigations

To view the full job classification, :
Assistant Director

• Work Environment
  - Quiet office setting in Olympia, Washington
• Schedule
  - Monday – Friday, 8:00am – 5:00pm, with the potential option of alternative or compressed schedules and/or remote working
• Travel Requirements
  - Occasional travel may be required to attend meetings or trainings
• Customer Interactions
  - Daily interactions with Thurston County staff and the public

Public Health and Social Services (PHSS) is Thurston County’s local health jurisdiction and human services department and is responsible for protecting the health and promoting the well-being of all people who live, work, and play in Thurston County. We value diversity and strive to foster a sense of belonging, honoring the unique experiences,…