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Social Services Program Manager Jobs in Illinois

Plan, direct, and evaluate the social services program, including social services staff, direct services, advocacy, counseling, service coordination, education, in-servicing, policy, and program ...

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Social Services Program Manager information

See Illinois salary details

$35.9K

$75.6K

$128.4K

How much do social services program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for social services program manager in Illinois is $75,551.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,700.00 and $85,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a social services program manager?

A Social Services Program Manager is a professional responsible for planning, directing, and coordinating social service programs and initiatives within organizations such as government agencies, non-profits, or community groups. They oversee program development, staff supervision, budgeting, and policy implementation to ensure services meet the needs of their target populations. These managers also evaluate program effectiveness, secure funding, and collaborate with other community organizations. Their goal is to improve the well-being of individuals and communities by delivering effective social services.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a social services program manager?

To thrive as a Social Services Program Manager, you need expertise in program development, case management, and a relevant degree such as social work or public administration. Familiarity with case management software, data reporting tools, and often state or national licensure is typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help manage teams and build relationships with clients and stakeholders. These abilities are crucial for ensuring effective program delivery, compliance, and positive outcomes for communities served.

What are some common challenges social services program managers face when overseeing multiple programs, and how can they effectively address them?

Social Services Program Managers often juggle multiple programs simultaneously, which can present challenges such as resource allocation, staff coordination, and maintaining consistent service quality. To effectively address these issues, managers must prioritize strong organizational skills, clear communication, and proactive problem-solving. Collaborating closely with team members, setting clear goals, and regularly monitoring program outcomes can help ensure that each initiative runs smoothly and meets its objectives. Additionally, leveraging technology for data tracking and scheduling can streamline operations and improve efficiency.

What is the difference between Social Services Program Manager vs Social Worker?

AspectSocial Services Program ManagerSocial Worker
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Social Work, Public Administration, or related field; often requires management experienceBachelor's or Master's in Social Work (BSW or MSW); licensure may be required
Work EnvironmentOversees programs, manages staff, and coordinates services in agencies or organizationsDirectly interacts with clients, providing counseling and support services
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, government agencies, healthcare organizationsHospitals, clinics, social service agencies

The main difference is that Social Services Program Managers focus on overseeing programs and managing teams, while Social Workers provide direct client services. Both roles require relevant social work credentials, but Program Managers typically have additional management responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Social Services Program jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Social Services Program jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Social Services Program Manager jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Social Services Program Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Social Services Program Manager job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $75,551 per year, or $36.3 per hour.

SOCIAL SERVICES PROGRAM PLANNER III

State of Illinois

Chicago, IL • On-site

$6.8K - $9.8K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


State Of Illinois rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 75 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 50 rated states


Job description

Job Requisition ID: 55491 
Opening Date:
08/19/2026
Closing Date:
09/02/2026
Agency:
Department of Children and Family Services
Class Title: 
SOCIAL SERV PROGRAM PLANNER III (41313) 

Title: Social Service Program Planner III - Regional Contract Analyst 
Skill Option: 
None 
Bilingual Option: 
None
Salary:
Anticipated Starting Salary (effective 7/1/2026) $6,820/monthly; Full Range $6,820 - $9,875/monthly
Job Type:
Salaried
Category: 
Full Time 
County:
Cook
Number of Vacancies:
1
Bargaining Unit Code: 
RC062 Technical Employees, AFSCME
Merit Comp Code: 

This position is a union position; therefore, provisions of the relevant collective bargaining agreement/labor contract apply to the filling of this position.  

All applicants who want to be considered for this position MUST apply electronically through the illinois.jobs2web.com website. State of Illinois employees should click the link near the top left to apply through the SuccessFactors employee career portal.

Applications submitted via email or any paper manner (mail, fax, hand delivery) will not be considered.

 IT IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED THAT YOU UPLOAD COLLEGE TRANSCRIPTS AND RESUME.  

 

Why Work for Illinois?

Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you’re helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you’re part of something bigger—something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home.

No matter what state career you’re looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule—flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.

Essential Functions
  • Serves as Cook/Northern Regional Contract Analyst. 
  • Conducts monitoring reviews of assigned vendors/providers to ensure compliance with contract, program plan,and training plan.
  • Prepares analytical written reports of reviews conducted and performs necessary data recordkeeping in OLPD databases related to the on-going evaluation, tracking of compliance and expenditures, and quality enhancement of service delivery.
  • Maintains systems of data collection to ensure that contractor contractual billing, quarterly reports, annual audits,and narrative reports are submitted to the Chief Learning Officer and Business Operations Manager within timeframes indicated in the program plan
  • Completes abstracts for all contracts and amendments for the Associate Deputy, Director, Chief Learning Officer and other OLPD staff administrators as requested.
  • Attends meetings and trainings to develop and maintain an understanding of new state and Department initiatives and ensure effective implementation of those initiatives
  • Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Requires knowledge, skill, and mental development equivalent to the completion of a master’s degree.
  • Requires one year of progressively responsible professional experience in community organization, social service work, or in program planning and development.
Specialized Skills
  • Of the previously noted one year of experience, requires that the experience involve contract monitoring and contract analysis.
Preferred Qualifications
  • One year of experience conducting contract monitoring and contract analysis for a public or private organization.
  • One year of experience in a public or private organization exercising thorough knowledge of the program objectives of agencies developing social policy.
  • One year of experience in a public or private organization exercising extensive knowledge of the structure, organization, and methods of social welfare institutions.
  • One year of experience in a public or private organization exercising technical ability to analyze and evaluate programs and procedures.
Conditions of Employment
  • Requires completion of a background check and self-disclosure of criminal history. 
  • Requires ability to travel in the performance of duties. Requires appropriate, valid driver’s license. 
  • Certain provisions of the revolving door restrictions contained in 5 ILCS 430/5-45 apply to this position. As a result, the employee should be aware that if offered non-State employment during state employment or within one year immediately after ending State employment, the employee shall, prior to accepting any such non-State employment offer, notify the Office of the Executive Inspector General for the Agencies of the Illinois Governor (OEIG) or may be subject to a fine.
  • This position has been found to meet the requirements in section 4A-101 of the Illinois Governmental Ethics Act requiring the occupant/employee to file a Statement of Economic Interest. The Illinois Governmental Ethics Act (5 ILCS 420/4A et seq.) requires certain state officials and employees to file annual Statements of Economic Interest with the Office of the Secretary of State that will be made available for examination and copying by the public. All employees required to file a Statement of Economic Interest are also required to file the Supplemental Statement of Economic Interest with the Executive Ethics Commission. (See Executive Order 15-09) Fines and penalties apply to untimely filings.
  • The conditions of employment listed here are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in the job description.
About The Agency

DCFS is deeply committed to the welfare and protection of children. Our goal is to protect children by strengthening and supporting families. In every effort, from receiving hotline calls to reaching family reunification or foster care and adoption, children and families are our focus. 

 As a State of Illinois Employee, you will receive a robust benefit package that includes the following:

  • A Pension Program
  • Competitive Group Insurance Benefits including Health, Life, Dental and Vision Insurance
  • 3 Paid Personal Business Days annually
  • 12 Paid Sick Days annually (Sick days carry over from year to year)
  • 10-25 Days of Paid Vacation time annually - (10 days in year one of employment)
  • Personal, Sick, & Vacation rates modified for 12-hour & part-time work schedules (as applicable)
  • 13 Paid Holidays annually, 14 on even numbered years
  • Flexible Work Schedules (when available dependent upon position)
  • 12 Weeks Paid Parental Leave
  • Deferred Compensation Program - A supplemental retirement plan
  • Optional Pre-Tax Programs such as Medical Care Assistance Plan (MCAP), Dependent Care Assistance Plan (DCAP)
  • Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program eligibility
  • GI Bill® Training/Apprenticeship Benefits eligibility for qualifying Veterans
  • 5% Salary Differential for Bilingual Positions
  • Commuter Savings Program (Chicago only)

For more information about our benefits please follow this  link: https://www2.illinois.gov/cms/benefits/Pages/default.aspx

Work Hours: Monday - Friday 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Headquarter Location: 6201 S Emerald Dr, Chicago, Illinois, 60621
Work County: Cook

Supervisor: M. Mosley-Cantrell 

Agency Contact: Maria Guerrero
Email: Maria.Guerrero@illinois.gov

Posting Group: Social Services

This position DOES contain “Specialized Skills” (as that term is used in CBAs).

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

Use the “Apply” button at the top right or bottom right of this posting to begin the application process.

If you are not already signed in, you will be prompted to do so. 

State employees should sign in to the career portal for State of Illinois employees – a link is available at the top left of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon. 

Non-State employees should log in on the using the “View Profile” link in the top right of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon.  If you have never before signed in, you will be prompted to create an account.

If you have questions about how to apply, please see the following resources:

State employees: Log in to the career portal for State employees and review the Internal Candidate Application Job Aid

Non-State employees: on Illinois.jobs2web.com – click “Application Procedures” in the footer of every page of the website.

The main form of communication will be through email. Please check your “junk mail”, “spam”, or “other” folder for communication(s) regarding any submitted application(s). You may receive emails from the following addresses:

  • donotreply@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com
  • systems@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com

What State Of Illinois employees say

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About State of Illinois

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Illinois is not a traditional company, but rather a governmental entity encompassing diverse agencies and departments that serve the constituents of Illinois. Based in Illinois, United States, this governmental body communicates with its citizens through the official website illinois.gov. The website is a one-stop resource for Illinois residents to access information about the state's services, including education, healthcare, transportation, and public safety, among others.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Springfield, IL, US

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