Case Worker - Family Support Services

Travis County•Austin, TX

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

Travis County Health and Human Services is seeking a full-time Case Worker for its Central office. The role determines applicants’ eligibility for social services and provides related crisis intervention and short-term case management. The Case Worker interviews clients, gathers eligibility documentation, determines eligibility for assistance, monitors clients’ progress and use of assistance, and refers clients to clinical and social service providers. The position may serve as lead worker over subordinate social services staff. This classification focuses on eligibility-related functions and short-term case management for a range of clients. It also provides problem-solving assistance and advocates on clients’ behalf. A flexible work schedule may be required to meet departmental needs. The position is based at 5325 Airport Blvd, Austin, Texas, and offers hybrid work opportunities. The role requires a bachelor’s degree in a Social or Behavioral Science and two years of experience in related social services work, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. A valid Texas Driver’s License is required. The position’s physical requirements include occasionally lifting or carrying up to 25 pounds and performing a range of movements and activities necessary to carry out its essential functions. Employees may be assigned to business continuity efforts outside their normal job functions.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in one of the Social or Behavioral Sciences and two years of experience in social services-related work, or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to perform the job duties.
Valid Texas Driver’s License.
Knowledge of policies, practices, procedures, and terminology relevant to the assigned function.
Knowledge of local social services, organizations, programs, and available resources.
Knowledge of federal, state, and local program laws and requirements.
Knowledge of modern office practices, procedures, and methods.
Knowledge of computer equipment, including word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and varied software packages.
May be required to develop knowledge of and comply with federal and state laws on confidential handling of certain health information.
Skill in assisting clients, interviewing, problem-solving, decision-making, making appropriate social service referrals, mathematical computation, operating office equipment and computers, and verbal and written communication.
Ability to work effectively with people experiencing crises and economic stress and courteously under high-pressure circumstances.
Ability to prepare accurate and complete records and reports; use sound judgment with human and financial resources; manage time and meet timelines; and communicate effectively.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with clients, outside agencies, County employees and officials, community organizations, providers, and the public.
Ability to meet the physical requirements of the position, including occasionally lifting or carrying up to 25 pounds and performing the listed movements and activities.

Responsibilities

Interview clients, collect and complete required documentation, and determine eligibility for assistance under applicable service regulations and procedures.
Monitor and ensure contract and program compliance.
Make home visits as needed for clients who cannot come to the service site.
Provide basic-needs counseling, problem-solving assistance, and case management services.
Assess client needs; develop casework or service plans; monitor progress; and conduct follow-up.
Provide social services related to crisis intervention.
Coordinate with service agencies, organizations, and vendors to provide services and information to clients.
Advocate on behalf of clients and make referrals to social service, education, and health agencies as needed.
Explain eligibility requirements, policies, and procedures to clients, agencies, vendors, and governmental entities.
Assist with contract development and monitoring.
Plan, organize, and participate in special projects, outreach, public speaking, and client activities.
Provide education and training to clients and the community.
May provide short- and long-term case management, crisis intervention, and service coordination to support self-sufficiency and non-institutional living.
May provide short-term independent-living skills assistance and training.
May assist clients in obtaining vocational and employment services.
May coordinate indigent burial arrangements with funeral homes, survivors, and staff, and attend burials to ensure contract compliance.
May recruit and train volunteers and staff and serve as their lead.
Perform other job-related duties as assigned.