Family Services Specialist II

Virginia Department of Social Services•Daleville, VA

About The Position

This is the full-performance level in the Family Services occupational group. The position develops and implements individualized service plans using casework methods in Employment Services and Child Care, and handles 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 several areas. Work is typically performed independently, with supervisory advice sought for unusual situations or when required by policy or procedure. This role differs from the Family Services Specialist III, which operates at an advanced level, is more specialized, and handles more complex duties. The position applies social work principles and practices, human behavior and motivational theory, and laws, policies, and regulations related to human services. It requires interviewing and assessing clients, developing service plans, managing cases and programs, coordinating with other agencies, and maintaining records and reports. After-hours on-call coverage and emergency response may be required in child or adult protective services and/or foster care.

Requirements

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 specified in 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 appropriately to clients' emotions; plan and manage work activities, service delivery, reporting, correspondence, and record keeping; 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 clients and assess their needs and relevant factors, including education and skill levels, abilities, interests, and support systems.
Inform clients about rules, regulations, and participation rights for related service programs.
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 service teams.
Monitor programs within 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.