Adult Protective Services Investigator

AZ Dept. of Economic Security • Lakeside, AZ

16h • Hybrid

About The Position

The Department of Economic Security (DES), Division of Aging and Adult Services (DAAS) is seeking an experienced and highly motivated professional to join our team as an Adult Protective Services (APS) Investigator. This position will be responsible for performing a variety of senior level case investigation related activities involved in providing direct and indirect assistance to vulnerable, elderly and/or incapacitated adults 18 years of age or older, alleged to be abused, neglected or exploited. The role involves investigating and assessing complex cases, determining service needs, writing comprehensive case documentation, and collaborating with clients, providers, and community resources. The investigator will also provide testimony for court appearances and may assign tasks and provide training to new staff. This position requires extensive travel and adherence to strict time frames and policies.

Requirements

• Knowledge of Federal and state statutes, DES/DAAS regulations, policies and procedures related to reporting of vulnerable adult maltreatment.
• Knowledge of case investigation and social work practices and principles (e.g., aging and elder rights, psychological abuse, perpetrator characteristics, adult maltreatment, etc.).
• Knowledge of physical behavioral indicators of neglect and abuse of adults with mental disabilities and/or seriously mentally ill (SMI) and frail elderly.
• Knowledge of Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
• Knowledge of appropriate interventions for a variety of behavioral, developmental and psychological symptoms.
• Knowledge of statewide community resources.
• Knowledge of the Judicial system as it relates to the appointment of Guardian/Conservator.
• Skills in oral and written communication and active listening.
• Skills in time management and organization.
• Skills in accurately inputting information.
• Skills in critical thinking.
• Skills in conducting interviews.
• Skills in conflict resolution techniques.
• Skills in using a variety of computer software packages (e.g., Excel, Word, Google Suite, automated client file, etc.).
• Ability to handle callers and clients in a professional, calm manner eliciting information quickly and efficiently while being discrete.
• Ability to quickly assess, prioritize, and process reports as they are received.
• Ability to write clear, concise and accurate reports including composition, spelling, and grammar.
• Ability to effectively deal with irate or hostile customers or reporters.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Social Work, Criminal Justice, Rehabilitation, Healthcare, or a closely related field OR One (1) year of experience providing professional Case Management / Investigations Services (Intake, Needs Assessment, Service Planning, and Monitoring and Evaluation).

Responsibilities

• Investigating and providing assessment, evaluation and appropriate services of the most complex cases involving vulnerable and incapacitated adults, 18 years of age or older, alleged to be abused, neglected or exploited.
• Providing case investigation related activities involved in direct and indirect assistance requiring extensive travel in compliance with required time frames.
• Determining if services need to be provided.
• Writing comprehensive progress notes, case plans, risk assessments, safety assessments and closure summaries.
• Maintaining accurate and timely case files.
• Providing information and/or in-service to community agencies and the general public.
• Referring clients for possible Guardianship and/or Conservatorship to Public Fiduciary or other entities as required.
• Providing testimony for case related court appearances.
• Facilitating appropriate in-home services and out-of-home placement.
• Collaborating with the client, providers, and community resources to deliver appropriate assistance.
• Assigning tasks to other team members as necessary and help provide on-the-job training and guidance to new staff.
• Requesting, obtaining, reviewing, and analyzing complex financial and medical documents including psychological evaluations.
• Meeting and reviewing cases with the Unit Supervisor on a regular basis ensuring compliance and the needs of clients have been met.
• Contacting clients in a timely manner.
• Interviewing subjects who may have knowledge of the situation.
• Consulting Adult Protective Services (APS) Policy and Procedures Manual ensuring actions taken are in compliance with laws and regulations.

Benefits

• Affordable medical, dental, life, and short-term disability insurance plans.
• Participation in the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS) and long-term disability plans.
• 10 paid holidays per year.
• Paid vacation and sick time.
• Paid Parental Leave-Up to 12 weeks per year paid leave for newborn or newly-placed foster/adopted child.
• Deferred compensation plan.
• Wellness plans.
• Tuition Reimbursement.
• Stipend Opportunities.
• Infant at Work Program.
• Rideshare and Public Transit Subsidy.
• Career Advancement & Employee Development Opportunities.

What This Job Offers

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