Social Worker

You will work in the child welfare or adult services divisions of the department and are assigned to either the Child Protective Services unit, Foster Care unit or Adult Services unit. Each unit includes working with complicated cases, which require the flexible use of a wide range of social work skills. The position requires availability for after-hours and weekend on-call duty on a rotating basis.

We will consider applicants who have relevant work experience for this position.

Responsibilities:

• The position will be primarily responsible for conducting CPS or APS investigations and assessments.
• Provide CPS or APS social work services to monitor and maintain the safety of children or vulnerable adults where neglect or abuse has been identified.
• Conduct assessments that accurately identify the strengths and needs of the family system and assess the risk of continuing harm to the children or adults.
• Work to strengthen the family’s capacity to protect and nurture the children or disabled adults through referrals to community resources.
• Model and support appropriate behaviors that will enhance family functioning. Arrange for appropriate alternative placements when children or adults are not safe within their own homes.
• Competently testify in court when necessary.
• Document case information thoroughly and timely. Provide consistent contact and follow-up with families.

Qualifications:

• A minimum of a Bachelor's degree in a human services field from an accredited college or university and two years directly related experience or a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university and three years of directly related experience
• Must be able to manage conflict, remain neutral and fair, engage people and build trust, and promote collaboration and consensus.
• The ability to use best practices, strategies, professional judgment, and time management skills in complex situations is essential.
• Applicant must have excellent oral and written skills.
• Applicant must be able to communicate effectively with individuals from varying cultures and backgrounds via phone and through personal contact.
• One year of work experience can be credited for the completion of the child welfare collaborative (child welfare positions only).