The Position

The City of Santa Monica is seeking a visionary, collaborative leader to serve as its next Director of Housing and Human Services. This is a rare opportunity to lead a newly reorganized department with strong political and organizational support in one of California’s most iconic coastal communities.

As a key member of the City Manager’s Executive Team, the Director will oversee a broad portfolio—including affordable housing development and programs, the Santa Monica Housing Authority, homelessness strategy and services, human services grants, and direct youth and family programming. The Director will also serve as the City’s lead on homelessness initiatives, driving cross-departmental collaboration, advancing strategic goals, and representing the City at regional, state, and federal levels.

This impactful role requires a leader with deep expertise in housing, human services, and homelessness, as well as strong management skills, policy acumen, and a passion for serving diverse and vulnerable populations. The ideal candidate will bring strategic vision, collaborative spirit, and a commitment to equity and innovation.

The ideal candidate will bring a deep understanding of housing and human services, including affordable housing finance and program development, along with a creative, mission-driven approach to solving complex challenges. A collaborative and emotionally intelligent leader, the Director will inspire trust, lead with empathy, and foster a culture of inclusivity, innovation, and results.

This is a role for someone who not only understands policy and operations but is also driven by the human impact of their work—someone who leads with heart, builds strong teams, and creates lasting change through meaningful engagement.

Qualifications

Minimum requirements include graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a bachelor’s degree and seven years of recent, paid, progressively responsible professional work managing, leading or coordinating human services, community services, or affordable housing programs.

Possession of a valid class C driver license or the ability to utilize an alternative method of transportation when needed to carry out job-related essential functions.

Compensation and Benefits

The annual salary range for the Housing and Human Services Director is $209,592 - $258,756. Placement within the range is dependent upon qualifications. The City offers a comprehensive benefits package which includes retirement benefits provided by CalPERS.

Employees who are Classic members of CalPERS or a reciprocal system, but new to the City of Santa Monica will be enrolled in the CalPERS 2% @ 55 benefit formula. Employees who are new CalPERS members (those obtaining initial membership on or after January 1, 2013), will be enrolled in the CalPERS 2% @ 62 benefit formula. Other benefits include a 457 deferred compensation plan, with City contributions, as well as retiree medical benefits.

How to Apply

Applications will be accepted electronically by Raftelis at jobs.crelate.com. Applicants will complete a brief online form and will then be prompted to provide a cover letter and resume. The position will be open until filled with a first review of applications beginning September 8, 2025.

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Director of Housing and Human Services

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