Family Services Specialist I

Virginia Department of Social Services•Lebanon, VA

About The Position

This is the full-performance level in the Family Services occupational group. Employees develop and implement individualized service plans using casework methods in Employment Services and Child Care, and handle basic service-level caseloads in Adult/Adult Protective Services, Child Protective Services, Foster Care, and Adoptions. Employees may serve across all program areas or specialize in one or more areas. They generally perform tasks independently, seeking supervisory advice for unusual situations or when policy and procedure require review or involvement.

Requirements

Minimum of a bachelor's degree in a Human Services field, or a bachelor's degree in any field plus at least two years of appropriate, related experience in a Human Services area, consistent with Section 22VAC40-670-20 of the Administrative Code of Virginia.
Experience in the assigned program area and completion of required training programs, or an equivalent combination of training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
Working knowledge of social work principles and practices; human behavior and motivational theory; laws, policies, and regulations relating to human services program areas; and social, economic, and health problems.
Skill in operating a motor vehicle and a personal computer with associated software.
Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing; interview and assess needs; counsel and refer clients to resources; develop and implement service plans; make sound judgments within applicable laws, policies, and regulations; respond to clients' emotions to accomplish service objectives; plan and manage work activities, service delivery, reports, correspondence, and records; establish and maintain effective relationships; and stay current with trends and developments in social work.

Nice To Haves

A BSW or MSW degree.
A Commonwealth of Virginia Social Worker license.

Responsibilities

Interpret laws, policies, and regulations as they apply to the assigned area of responsibility.
Monitor, coordinate, and administer assigned programs.
Coordinate services within the assigned area of responsibility.
Interview customers and assess their needs and relevant factors, including education and skill levels, abilities, interests, and support systems.
Inform clients about rules and regulations for related service programs and their right to participate.
Present cases to determine appropriate services, and write and implement service plans.
Provide case management services and monitor compliance.
Manage program waiting lists.
Track expenditures, prepare and submit budget estimates, and ensure payment for services.
Complete required federal, state, and local planning and reporting.
Coordinate with other agencies and participate in multidisciplinary and interagency teams serving customers.
Monitor programs in the assigned area of responsibility.
Serve as a resource to clients and the community in the area of expertise.
Provide after-hours on-call coverage and respond to emergencies in child or adult protective services and/or foster care.