Family Preservation Specialist

Tohono O•Sells, AZ

About The Position

The Family Preservation Specialist works under general supervision to provide a structured, culturally relevant program in a family-style setting. The program helps families develop healthy relationships with their elders and build interpersonal and problem-reduction skills to prevent further elder abuse and neglect. Work is generally reviewed upon completion, with occasional spot checks during the process. Major tasks are guided by instructions or procedures, and unusual situations are referred to a supervisor. The specialist assesses the needs of elders and referred families, helps develop individualized treatment plans, advocates for families, and provides counseling and training. The role includes teaching families about elder development, physical and emotional needs, nonphysical behavior management, nutrition, stress management, and supportive relationships. The specialist also identifies community resources, teaches personal problem-solving, facilitates parenting classes, and conducts home visits. The position provides monthly reports to the immediate supervisor and collaborates with communities, districts, law enforcement, school personnel, and other Tohono O'odham Nation entities regarding client or program information. It requires travel within assigned areas and may involve extended hours and varied work schedules. The specialist maintains professional knowledge through research, seminars, workshops, classes, conferences, and consultation with relevant organizations, and performs other related duties as assigned.

Requirements

Associate's degree in Social Work or a closely related field and four years of work experience providing counseling services to elders and their families, or an equivalent combination of training, education, and work experience demonstrating the ability to perform the duties.
Knowledge of Tohono O'odham traditions, language, history, and culture.
Knowledge of applicable federal, state, and tribal laws, regulations, and requirements.
Knowledge of department organization, functions, objectives, policies, and procedures.
Knowledge of the Tohono O'odham Nation's Adult Protective Ordinance.
Knowledge of social service work principles and practices.
Knowledge of community resources available to individuals and families.
Skill in providing superior customer service to internal and external customers.
Skill in operating a computer and basic office equipment.
Skill in assessing situations and providing appropriate remedies.
Ability to communicate efficiently and effectively verbally and in writing.
Ability to exercise independent judgment.
Ability to handle multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
Ability to establish and maintain positive and effective working relationships with employees and the general public.
Ability to maintain privileged confidential information.
Ability to work extended hours and various work schedules.
Ability to travel within the interior and exterior boundaries of the Tohono O'odham Nation.
Must obtain CPR, AED, and First Aid certifications within the first six months of hire.
A criminal background check and National FBI check are required upon recommendation for hire.
A 39-month Motor Vehicle Record is required.
May be required to possess and maintain a valid driver's license, with no DUIs or major traffic citations within the last three years.
If required to operate program vehicles, must meet the Tohono O'odham Nation tribal employer's insurance requirements to receive a driver's permit.

Responsibilities

Assess the needs of elders and families referred for services.
Assist in developing treatment plans tailored to the needs of elders and their families.
Advocate for families needing services in accordance with program guidelines, policies, and procedures.
Provide family counseling and training according to treatment plans.
Teach families about elder norms and physical and emotional factors, nonphysical behavior management, nutritional needs, and ways to support elders.
Teach families to build positive relationships with elders, manage stress, and meet their own emotional needs without causing harm to elders.
Identify community resources to help families develop and maintain learned skills.
Instruct elders and families in personal problem-solving methods.
Facilitate parenting classes that provide resources, knowledge, and awareness of parenting skills and techniques.
Conduct home visits to observe the home environment, hold individual sessions, and provide resources and information about upcoming events.
Provide monthly reports to the immediate supervisor.
Collaborate with communities, districts, law enforcement, school personnel, and other Tohono O'odham Nation entities regarding client or program information.
Travel within assigned areas as needed.
Maintain professional knowledge through research, seminars, workshops, classes, conferences, and consultation with contracting agencies and related organizations.
Perform other job-related duties as assigned and contribute to a team effort.