Adult Protective Services Social Worker

Catawba County Government•Hickory, NC

About The Position

Catawba County Social Services is seeking a committed and compassionate Adult Protective Services (APS) Social Worker to protect vulnerable adults and support individuals and families facing complex, often crisis-driven circumstances. The position responds to reports of abuse, neglect, and exploitation of disabled adults, works to ensure their safety, rights, and well-being, and connects them to essential services and supports. The role involves person-centered assessment and intervention, collaboration with families, courts, medical providers, and community partners, and work in a fast-paced environment. Trainees with a master's or bachelor's degree in another human services area who lack the required experience may be considered. Trainee salary starts at $59,457.24.

Requirements

Master's degree from an accredited school of social work and 1 year of social work experience; or a master's degree in counseling or a human services field and 2 years of social work experience.
Bachelor's degree from an accredited school of social work with Child Welfare Collaborative and 1 year of social work experience; or a bachelor's degree from an accredited school of social work and 2 years of social work experience.
Bachelor's degree in a human services field and 3 years of social work experience; or a bachelor's degree in a non-human services field and 4 years of social work experience.
Valid driver's license with a safe driving record; driving is an essential function of the position.
Strong assessment, investigative, and documentation skills.
Ability to exercise sound judgment and remain calm in crisis situations.
Ability to lift up to 20 pounds on a regular basis.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with vulnerable adult populations, including individuals with disabilities, dementia, mental illness, or substance use disorders.
Experience working with courts, guardianship, or legal processes.
Experience conducting psychosocial assessments and crisis intervention.
Bilingual ability in English and Spanish.

Responsibilities

Respond initially to reports of abuse, neglect, and exploitation of disabled adults.
Conduct face-to-face assessments, evaluations, and safety evaluations.
Apply crisis intervention techniques and respond to urgent or high-risk situations.
Determine whether allegations are substantiated and take appropriate protective action.
Establish protection and service plans to support adult safety and well-being.
Mobilize and coordinate medical, mental health, legal, financial, and social services.
Assess capacity and assure client rights to self-determination.
Assess the need for legal guardianship and facilitate court-ordered evaluations and proceedings.
Prepare legal documentation and court reports, and testify as required.
Provide ongoing case management and long-term service coordination.