Case Worker (9019)

The Salvation Army•Pensacola, FL

About The Position

The Case Worker monitors an assigned caseload of clients participating in a short-term life management program. The role establishes program plans and goals, evaluates client progress through routine meetings with clients and/or staff, and advocates for clients to help them obtain services that enable them to cope functionally with their environment. The position interviews applicants to assess program eligibility, conducts needs assessments, develops intake and case plans, and refers applicants to other agencies when the program is not appropriate. It maintains case records and HMIS entries, meets with clients to evaluate progress, plans or facilitates life management classes, and assists clients with housing and referrals to relevant services. The Case Worker also prepares discharge plans, maintains statistical records and reports, and participates in community meetings with other agencies. The schedule is Monday through Friday, typically 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., for 40 hours per week. The role requires a Level 2 background screening. Work is usually performed seated in a normal office environment, with occasional standing or walking and limited lifting or carrying of objects under 25 pounds for 5–10% of work time. The employee must be able to work with members of the public exhibiting varied behaviors and manage multiple cases effectively.

Requirements

Two years of college coursework from an accredited college or university in Social Work, Behavioral Science, or a related field, and two years of experience working in a social or public service environment with experience assisting the public; or an equivalent combination of education and experience providing the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
Ability to work with the public, including people exhibiting varied behaviors.
Ability to interview clients and obtain pertinent information.
Ability to prepare and maintain accurate, complete case notes and client records.
Ability to plan, organize, and prioritize work to meet quality standards and deadlines.
Ability to build and maintain effective, professional working relationships with clients and community agencies.
Ability to meet attendance requirements.
Ability to read, write, and communicate in English, including clear and effective oral and written communication.
Ability to think clearly and quickly to maintain control of a client caseload.
Ability to manage multiple cases effectively without becoming frustrated or disorganized.
Level 2 background screening required.

Responsibilities

Interview applicants to determine eligibility for program enrollment according to established guidelines and requirements.
Conduct needs assessments, obtain pertinent information, and establish program goals for eligible clients; refer applicants to other agencies when they are not appropriate for the program.
Develop intake and case plans; help clients complete required paperwork, including goals and budget forms; complete orientation check-off forms and obtain releases of information when appropriate.
Complete social histories for new clients each week.
Prepare and maintain case records and logs, ensure their accuracy and completeness, and enter relevant information into the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS).
Meet regularly with clients to discuss and evaluate progress and prepare accurate, current records documenting that progress.
Receive incident reports and enforce disciplinary actions for violations of house guidelines.
Plan, coordinate, and/or facilitate life management classes; obtain speakers and workshop presenters as needed.
Mentor clients and model appropriate hygiene, personal appearance, records retention, budget planning, and scheduling.
Help clients locate and secure affordable housing; conduct home visits when appropriate; ensure living quarters are furnished and maintained; arrange needed repairs; and inspect living quarters and grounds routinely.
Refer clients to appropriate Corps programs or other agencies based on their needs and program plans.
Complete discharge plans, transfer file contents to non-active files, and prepare follow-up mailing cards for clients exiting the program.
Attend community meetings with representatives of other agencies to explain the program, make referrals, and maintain awareness of client progress.
Prepare and maintain statistical records of services provided and compile monthly statistical reports, ensuring accuracy and completeness.