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

Virginia Department of Social Services • Orange, VA

3d • Onsite

About The Position

Family Services Specialist I is an entry-level position where employees are trained in various program areas including Adult/Adult Protective Services, Child Protective Services, Foster Care/Adoption, Child Care, and Employment Services. They perform routine casework activities under supervision, with reviews prior to case actions. Upon completion of training and approvals, they are redefined as Family Services Specialist II, eligible for a pay increase. Family Services Specialist II is the full-performance level, responsible for developing and implementing individualized service plans in areas like Employment Services, Child Care, and basic caseloads in Adult/Adult Protective Services, Child Protective Services, Foster Care, and Adoptions. They can specialize or work across program areas, typically functioning independently and seeking supervisory advice only for unusual situations or when policy requires. The Specialist II is distinguished from the Specialist III by the latter's advanced level, specialization, and handling of more complex duties such as investigating 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 as mandated in Section 22VAC40-670-20 of the Administrative Code of Virginia and implemented by the Virginia Board of Social Services
• Knowledge of social work principles and practices
• Knowledge of human behavior and motivational theory
• Knowledge of social, economic, and health problems
• Skill in operating a motor vehicle
• Skill in operating a personal computer with associated software
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing
• Ability to interview, assess needs, counsel and refer clients to other resources as needed
• Ability to develop and implement service plans in order to insure the delivery of appropriate services to the client
• Ability to make sound judgments within the framework of existing laws, policies, and regulations
• Ability to respond to the client's emotions in order to accomplish services objectives
• Ability to plan and manage own work activities including service delivery preparing reports, and correspondence, record keeping responsibilities and related activities
• Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships
• Ability to stay abreast of current trends and developments in the social work field
• Applicants will be subject to a Criminal History Background search, Central Registry search and DMV/driving record check
• All offers of employment are contingent upon satisfactory results of the required checks and screenings
• Driving record and valid license must be submitted before actual start date if being considered for employment

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
• 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
• Analyzing, interpreting, and applying 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
• 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
• Willing to work in the community emergency shelter in the event of a natural disaster or emergency
• Willing to assist Family Services with care of high acuity foster care youth

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level