Family Services Specialist I

Virginia Department of Social Services • Stony Creek, VA

1d • $55,000

About The Position

Family Services Specialist I is an entry-level role performed under close supervision while the employee is trained in program areas such as Adult/Adult Protective Services, Child Protective Services, Foster Care/Adoption, Child Care, and Employment Services. The employee performs routine- to journey-level casework activities, which are usually reviewed by a supervisor before case actions are implemented. After completing the training program and obtaining the necessary approvals, the employee may be redefined as a full-performance Family Services Specialist II and become eligible for a pay increase under the local agency compensation plan. The Specialist I role is distinguished from Specialist II by its closer supervision and less independent work.

The position involves assessments, investigations, case planning and coordination, documentation, collaboration with community and professional partners, and support across program areas as needed. Frequent local travel, home visits, fieldwork, and participation in a rotating after-hours on-call schedule are required. The work may involve sensitive or potentially high-risk environments.

Sussex County Department of Social Services offers health insurance, retirement participation through the Virginia Retirement System, employer-paid group life insurance, and voluntary benefit options. The position provides a career pathway to Family Services Specialist II based on successful training completion, performance, and agency needs.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a Human Services field, or a bachelor’s degree in any field with at least two years of related human services experience.
• Knowledge of social work principles and human behavior.
• Ability to assess client needs and develop effective service plans.
• Strong communication and documentation skills.
• Ability to manage a caseload and prioritize competing demands.
• Ability to work effectively with diverse populations and community partners.
• Sound judgment in high-pressure or sensitive situations.
• Ability to participate in a rotating on-call schedule.
• Willingness and ability to perform frequent local travel, home visits, and fieldwork.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in Adult Services, Adult Protective Services, and Guardianship.
• BSW or MSW degree.
• Virginia Social Worker license.

Responsibilities

• Conduct assessments to determine client needs, risk level, and service eligibility.
• Investigate reports of adult abuse, neglect, and exploitation in Adult Protective Services.
• Develop and manage individualized service plans.
• Coordinate and monitor guardianship cases, including court involvement and ongoing oversight.
• Arrange services such as in-home care, placement, and community-based support.
• Maintain accurate and timely case documentation.
• Collaborate with courts, medical professionals, law enforcement, and community partners.
• Participate in multidisciplinary teams and case reviews.
• Assist in other program areas, including Child Protective Services, Foster Care, and Prevention, as needed.
• Provide after-hours on-call coverage on a rotating basis.
• Conduct frequent local travel, home visits, and fieldwork.

Benefits

• High-Deductible Health Plan with $0 monthly premium for employee-only coverage and employer-funded Health Reimbursement Account (HRA).
• Participation in the Virginia Retirement System (VRS) Plan 1, Plan 2, or Hybrid, with mandatory employee contributions.
• Employer-paid group life insurance through VRS equal to two times annual salary.
• Voluntary options including deferred compensation plans, supplemental insurance (AFLAC), optional life insurance, and legal services.
• Paid semi-monthly.

What This Job Offers

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