Access Worker - Intake & Assessment Unit

Douglas County • Douglas County Superior, WI

6d • Onsite

About The Position

This full-time case position will be the primary access/intake worker for the Children and Families Unit. Access is a process for receiving, analyzing, and documenting reports of alleged child abuse or neglect. Access/Intake workers must gather sufficient information for decision making related to child safety. Access/Intake then creates an encompassing report/referral in the appropriate database so a supervisor can accurately determine what, if any, action the Department should take in the matter. Access/Intake workers must possess the ability to provide input regarding screening, urgency, and response time decisions based upon threats to child safety. Access/Intake workers must possess strong interview skills to engage reporters and the ability to accurately and timely document the information received. Duties include being the primary Access/Intake worker Monday-Friday, writing detailed reports, assessing information as it comes to the Department to determine both present and impending danger. The Intake/Access worker is the gateway for services for all social work programs, so it is critical that the individual has the expertise and skills to gather all pertinent information a client/referent has and has the ability to verbalize and write a thorough report on the subject matter. The worker must also possess excellent interview and customer service skills, be able to operate calmly in stressful situations, multi-task and work well independently and in a team-based environment.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree in human services field with at minimum one year work experience is acceptable.
• Ability and willingness to become Wisconsin Social Work certified per statue 457.08 (1) and/or 457.09(1) may be necessary during course of employment and is preferred.
• One to two years’ related work experience preferred.
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and furnish proof of automobile insurance.
• Transporting and/or making appointments with clients is a requirement of this position.
• Financial aptitude, computer knowledge, strong oral and written communication skills, and comfortability in presenting to management groups, public groups, and various committees needed.
• Must be able to deal with a variety of people in all aspects of this work.
• Working knowledge of social and economic factors which influence family life.
• Knowledge of interviewing techniques and problem solving methodology.
• Working knowledge of social casework objectives, principles, methods, and caseload management and organization.
• Knowledge of how to access area resources.
• Interview effectively, gather information and engage the client in the problem-solving process.
• Understand and explain agency limitations, regulations and policies.
• Maintain current and accurate records.
• Proficiency in use of computer and designated software programs and/or to obtain proficiency within 6 months of assuming the position.
• Communicates clearly and effectively, verbally in writing and during public speaking, ensures understanding, and conveys information accurately.
• Collaborates and maintains effective working relationships with colleagues, supervisors, clients, providers, and staff of other agencies.
• Contributes to group efforts, and fosters a cooperative and supportive work environment to achieve common goals.
• Takes responsibility for actions and decisions, follows through on commitments, and ensures tasks are completed accurately and on time.
• Takes proactive steps to address opportunities and challenges, shows a strong drive to achieve results, and goes above and beyond.
• Makes informed and timely decisions, evaluates options thoroughly, and takes responsibility for outcomes.
• Demonstrates a strong desire to achieve goals, seeks continuous improvement, and strives for excellence in all endeavors.
• Identifies and addresses conflicts promptly, mediates disputes, and fosters a collaborative environment.
• Demonstrates a strong awareness of safety protocols, promotes a safe work environment, and ensures compliance with safety regulations.
• Shows tolerance for different perspectives, remains patient and open-minded, and fosters an inclusive environment.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work
• Ability and willingness to become Wisconsin Social Work certified per statue 457.08 (1) and/or 457.09(1) may be necessary during course of employment

Responsibilities

• Provide Access Intake services.
• Receive and document primarily child abuse/neglect reports, but may also receive mental health and adult protection referrals and forward to the appropriate staff member.
• Provide information and resources to those contacting the Department.
• Conduct initial interviews in order to determine the nature of access or service need and what unit or department is best able to assist the consumer.
• Documents all casework in accordance with Federal and State laws and mandates and in accordance with County policies and procedures on all referrals related to child abuse and neglect.
• Performs return calls as necessary seeking additional intake information.
• Ensures clients are assisted promptly and courteously, and provided or referred for needed services.
• Provides information and training for schools, community providers, and other organizations regarding child abuse and abuse reporting laws.
• Participates in continuing education and/or training opportunities.
• Maintains confidentiality regarding children and family case information.
• Provides assistance to staff, Lead Worker, and Supervisor on an as needed basis.
• Completes redaction of records requests in child welfare as assigned.
• Comfortable with telephonic and in-person communication, demonstrating superior verbal and written communication skills.
• Comfortable navigating multiple electronic software programs.
• Prioritize tasks and navigate between different job responsibilities regularly.
• Exercise good judgment in approaching situations and making decisions.
• Prepare and maintain clear and accurate records and reports.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Annual wage increase based on eligibility
• Paid, on-the-job training and advancement opportunities
• 85% county contribution to health and dental premiums
• Health Savings Account (HSA) available to all employees enrolled in the county's medical plan, with annual contributions provided by the employer and the health plan
• Wisconsin Retirement
• County-paid Life Insurance Policy – coverage equivalent to annual salary
• Competitive paid time off including vacation, sick time, personal days and holidays
• Public Student Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Employer

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level