Family Services Specialist I/II

New LHRC External Career Site • King William, VA

28d • Hybrid

About The Position

This is the full performance level in the occupational group for Family Services. Employees are responsible for developing and implementing individualized service plans involving the application of casework methods and basic service level caseloads in one or more program areas of Adult/Adult Protective Services, Child Protective Services, Foster Care, and Adoptions. Employees may provide services in all program areas or specialize in one or several program areas. Typically employees perform all tasks independently and only seek supervisory advice on unusual situations or when policies and procedures require supervisory review or involvement. The Family Services Specialist I is distinguished from the Family Services Specialist II by the latter’s functioning more independently as a full performance Family Services Specialist and assuming more complex duties (such as: interviewing/investigating in cases involving suspected child/adult abuse/neglect, out-of-home placements, guardianships, emergency protective orders, and adoptions). Family Services Specialists serve in a rotating schedule of on-call for afterhours/weekend coverage of CPS/APS response. This position is ideal for candidates who are dedicated, empathetic, and of high character—individuals who find fulfillment in making a lasting impact on the lives of children, families, and vulnerable adults in our community.

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.
• Some knowledge of social work principles and practices; human behavior and motivational theory; and social, economic, and health problems.
• Skill in operating a motor vehicle and personal computer with associated software (Microsoft Office including Word and Excel).
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing; plan and manage own work activities; and establish and maintain effective relationships.

Nice To Haves

• Possession of a MSW degree is desirable.
• Experience working directly with diverse groups of clients, co-workers and community agencies, in a criminal justice and/or human services setting.
• Experience working with families that have been impacted by substance abuse disorders and/or generational poverty.
• Working knowledge of the Practice Profiles (Advocating, Assessing, Collaborating, Communicating, Demonstrating Cultural and Diversity Competence, Documenting, Engaging, Evaluating, Implementing, Partnering and Planning).
• Experience working with families to prevent out of home placements.
• Demonstrated ability to provide Court testimony.

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.

Benefits

• Flexible Work Hours – designed to promote work-life balance.
• Hybrid Telework Options
• Pay Incentives – available for strong performance and professional growth.
• Professional Development – ongoing training and advancement opportunities.
• Supportive Team Environment – join a department that values character, collaboration, and compassion.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees