Family Services Specialist I

Virginia Department of Social Services•Marion, VA

About The Position

Family Services Specialist I is an entry-level position in which employees work under close supervision while being 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 a case action is implemented. After completing the training program and obtaining the necessary approvals, the employee is redefined as a full-performance Family Services Specialist II and becomes eligible for a pay increase under the local agency compensation plan. The role differs from Family Services Specialist II, which functions more independently as a full-performance position. The position interprets and applies laws, policies, and regulations; administers assigned programs; assesses customer needs; develops and implements service plans; and provides case management and related services. It also involves program monitoring, reporting, coordination with other agencies, and after-hours on-call coverage for emergencies in child or adult protective services and/or foster care.

Requirements

Minimum bachelor's degree in a Human Services field, or a bachelor's degree in any field plus at least two years of appropriate and related experience in a Human Services area, as mandated by 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 a personal computer with associated software.
Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing; interview, assess needs, counsel, and refer clients to other 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 record keeping; establish and maintain effective relationships; and stay abreast of 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 related service-program rules, regulations, and their right to participate.
Present cases to determine appropriate services and write and implement service plans.
Provide case management services to 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 service teams.
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.