Family Services Specialist I/II - Child Protective Services (CPS)

Virginia Department of Social Services•Orange, VA

3d•$55,000 - $65,000•Onsite

About The Position

This position serves as a Family Services Specialist I/II within Child Protective Services (CPS). The Family Services Specialist I is an entry-level role where employees receive training in various program areas, including Adult Protective Services, Child Protective Services, Foster Care/Adoption, Child Care, and Employment Services. They perform routine casework activities under supervision, with their work typically reviewed by a supervisor before case actions are implemented. Upon completion of training and attainment of necessary approvals, the employee is reclassified to Family Services Specialist II, becoming eligible for a pay increase. The Family Services Specialist II is distinguished by functioning more independently. This is the full-performance level in the Family Services occupational group. Employees at this level are responsible for developing and implementing individualized service plans using casework methods in Employment Services and Child Care, and managing basic caseloads in Adult Protective Services, Child Protective Services, Foster Care, and Adoptions. Employees may work across all program areas or specialize. They typically perform tasks independently, seeking supervisory advice only for unusual situations or when policies require it. The Family Services Specialist II differs from a higher-level specialist by functioning at an advanced level, specializing more in program areas, and handling more complex duties such as investigations of suspected child/adult abuse/neglect, out-of-home placements, guardianships, emergency protective orders, and adoptions.

Requirements

Minimum of a Bachelor's degree in a Human Services field or minimum of a Bachelor's degree in any field with a minimum of two years of appropriate and related experience in a Human Services area.
Skill in operating a personal computer with associated software.
Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
Demonstrated ability to interview, assess needs, counsel and refer clients to other resources as needed.
Demonstrated ability to develop and implement service plans in order to insure the delivery of appropriate services to the client.
Demonstrated ability to make sound judgments within the framework of existing laws, policies, and regulations.
Demonstrated ability to respond to the client's emotions in order to accomplish services objectives.
Demonstrated ability to plan and manage own work activities including service delivery preparing reports, and correspondence, record keeping responsibilities and related activities.
Demonstrated ability to establish and effective relationships.
Demonstrated ability to stay abreast of current trends and developments in the social work field.
Skill in operating a motor vehicle.

Nice To Haves

Possession of a BSW or MSW degree and a Commonwealth of Virginia Social Worker license are desirable.
Considerable experience in assigned program area/human services programs and completion of required training programs.
Current experience with the Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS), including In‑Home Practice, or an equivalent combination of training and experience that demonstrates the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities.
Demonstrated ability to analyze, interpret, and apply complex federal and state laws and regulations.
Work experience in a human services field or an internship in a human services field preferred.
Work experience in a local department of social services office is preferred.
Possession of a BSW or MSW degree and a Commonwealth of Virginia Social Worker license.
Experience with and understanding of agency software programs such as VaCMS, OASIS, and Safe Measures.
Veteran and/or Disabled Veteran.

Responsibilities

Interprets laws, policies and regulations as applied to specific area of responsibility.
Monitors, coordinates and administers specific programs as assigned.
Coordinates services within specific area of responsibility.
Interviews and assesses customer needs and other relevant factors – such as education/skill levels, abilities, interests, and support systems.
Informs clients of related service programs rules/regulations, and right to participate.
Presents cases to determine appropriate services and writes/implements service plans.
Provides case management services to monitor compliance.
Manages program waiting lists.
Tracks expenditures, prepares/submits budget estimates and ensures payment for services.
Completes necessary federal, state and local planning and reporting requirements.
Coordinates with other agencies and participates in multi-disciplinary and interagency teams providing services to customers.
Conducts overall monitoring of programs in specific area of responsibility.
Serves as resource to clients and the community in area of expertise.
Provides after hours on-call coverage and responds to emergencies in child/adult protective services and/or foster care.