What is the Department of Social Services?

The Department of Social Services is responsible for the administration of child welfare services; helping families with food stamp benefits, health care, child support, blind services and other needs; administering health care coverage for eligible Missourians; and offering care and treatment to youth committed to Division of Youth Services custody.

How do I find out about job opportunities?

How do I know what job titles to apply for?

You can access MO Careers to review the salary, description, desired skills and qualifications of each job opportunity. You can also access our Job Opportunities page to learn more about the types of jobs we have available.   
How do I apply for a job with the Department of Social Services?

  • Visit MO Careers to view our current job openings
  • Organize the list by selecting a column header to sort
  • Select the job you are interested in
  • Review job details, application instructions, and contact information
  • Submit your application and any additional requested information

What happens after I submit my application on MO Careers?

We will review your application and determine whether you qualify for the position(s). If chosen for an interview, you will be contacted by email and/or phone.

If I am contacted and scheduled for an interview, what should I bring to the interview?

You should bring any job materials requested in the posted job opportunity.

What should I do if I have a medical condition requiring special equipment or some other accommodation to allow me to participate in an interview?

Contact the person who scheduled your interview, or contact the Human Resource Center at 573-751-4244, TDD: 1-800-735-2966. DSS will make reasonable accommodations to allow you to participate in an interview.

What will happen during the interview?

Normally, an interview panel of at least two individuals will ask you to respond to a series of questions. You may also be asked to complete some type of performance test, depending on the position for which you are being interviewed. In some cases, you may be asked to complete a second round interview.

What will happen after the interview?

Regardless of whether you are selected for the position, you will be notified once a decision is made.

As a new employee what do I need for my first day?

You will need to bring two forms of identification in order to complete your Employment Eligibility Verification. For example: Driver’s License, Social Security Card, Birth Certificate, Passport, etc.

If I am offered a position and plan to continue to work at another job, it is there anything I need to do?

Yes, employees may work another job as long as it is not a conflict of interest, does not interfere with your work performance, and does not conflict with the Fair Labor Standards Act (if with another state agency).

What is the Department’s dress code?

You are expected to dress in a manner appropriate to the performance of your duties, which may include casual clothing that is appropriate for a professional office environment.

When is payday?

You will be paid twice a month, generally on the 15th and the last working day of the month.

What benefits do we offer?

  • Vacation Leave starting at 15 days a year    
  • Sick Leave at 15 days a year
  • 13 Paid Holidays
  • Parental Leave
  • Medical Insurance
  • Dental Plan
  • Vision Plan
  • Life Insurance
  • Cafeteria Plan (Tax Savings)
  • Retirement Plan
  • Deferred Compensation
  • Worker’s Compensation Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Shareleave Program
  • Long-Term Disability
  • Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
  • Employee Wellness Program
  • Educational Leave
  • Professional Development
  • Other Paid Leave
  • Social Security
  • Unemployment Insurance
  • Missouri Saving for Tuition (MOST)
  • Employee Discounts

For more information on any of these benefits, visit our Benefits page.

What type of training is available for employees?

We offer extensive training opportunities for employees in the areas of both professional and personal development in a variety of formats.