Family Services Specialist I - (Child Protective In-Home)

Virginia Department of Social Services•Hopewell, VA

About The Position

The Family Services Specialist I is an entry-level position in which employees work under close supervision while receiving training in program areas including Child Protective Services. The role performs routine- to journey-level casework activities, with case actions generally reviewed by a supervisor before implementation. After completing the training program and obtaining 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 position is distinguished from Family Services Specialist II by its closer supervision and training requirements. The position applies social work principles and practices to assigned program responsibilities, including the Child Protective In-Home area. Work includes assessing client needs, coordinating and monitoring services, preparing and implementing service plans, maintaining records and reports, and coordinating with other agencies. The role also provides after-hours on-call coverage and responds to emergencies in child or adult protective services and/or foster care.

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 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.
Ability to interview, assess needs, counsel, and refer clients to other resources as needed.
Ability to develop and implement service plans to ensure appropriate services are delivered to clients.
Ability to make sound judgments within applicable laws, policies, and regulations.
Ability to respond to clients' emotions to accomplish service objectives.
Ability to plan and manage work activities, including service delivery, report and correspondence preparation, record keeping, and related duties.
Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships.
Ability to stay abreast of current trends and developments in the social work field.

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 clients and assess their needs and relevant factors, including education or 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 and monitor client 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.
Prepare reports and correspondence, maintain records, and manage related work activities.