République et Canton de Neuchâtel
Neuchâtel
Yesterday
Head of the Socio-Educational Services Unit (UPSE)
- Publication date:21 October 2025
- Workload:100%
- Place of work:Neuchâtel
Job summary
Join the Service de protection de l'adulte et de la jeunesse (SPAJ) team! Exciting opportunity to lead socio-educational initiatives in Neuchâtel.
Tasks
- Define and implement socio-educational policies for specialized education.
- Oversee the authorization of educational institutions and family placements.
- Lead a multidisciplinary team and represent SPAJ in strategic discussions.
Skills
- Master's degree in socio-educational, legal, or public management; 7+ years experience.
- Excellent managerial and analytical skills are essential.
- Strong communication and ethical public service commitment required.
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About the job
SPAJ269
Department:DSJSEntity:Adult and Youth Protection Service (SPAJ)Activities:As part of your role, you define and implement the cantonal socio-educational policy in the fields of specialized education institutions (IES), foster families (FA), and educational support services in open environments (SAEMO). You ensure the supervision and authorization of IES and FA, in accordance with the applicable federal and cantonal legislation. Additionally, you lead the socio-educational services unit (UPSE) and manage a multidisciplinary team of specialists. You participate in strategic reflections and decisions of the SPAJ Management Board, while representing the unit in specialized cantonal and national bodies. Finally, you develop partnerships, ensure coordination with judicial and administrative authorities, and contribute to the continuous improvement of professional practices in the field of child protection.Desired Profile:Holding a university master's degree or an equivalent qualification in the socio-educational, legal, or public management field, you have additional training in management and at least seven years of professional experience in child protection or socio-educational services, including three years in a managerial role. You possess excellent managerial skills, strong analytical, decision-making, and synthesis abilities, as well as great ease in written and oral communication. Your sense of responsibility, public service ethics, and ability to collaborate with multiple partners make you a reference person in your field.Workplace:NeuchâtelStart Date:January 1, 2026, or by agreementApplication Deadline:November 4, 2025Information:Mr. Christian Fellrath, Head of Service, tel. 032 889 66 67All applications must be sent strictly to the Human Resources Department and not to the recruiting serviceIf you wish to take on this challenge, please apply online by attaching your complete file (cover letter, CV, diplomas, and work certificates).
