Family Services Specialist III

Virginia Department of Social Services•Newport News, VA

6d•Onsite

About The Position

Receives referrals and investigates cases of suspected adult and child abuse and neglect; screens and makes determination for validity of abuse or neglect allegations. Evaluates high-risk situations and takes appropriate measures to ensure the safety of children. Independently works with and counsels families in the formation and implementation of service plans to reduce child abuse or neglect within the family. Participates in planning and evaluating adult and child abuse and neglect programs, foster care, and adoption. Exercises emergency removal authority; interviews family members in order to study and document information regarding strengths, mental and physical development, abuse history, parenting skills, perceptions of reported incident, violence, and family and community support. Reaches factually supported conclusions in a timely and thorough manner with input from parents, children, extended family, social workers, and relevant community stakeholders to ensure safety. Consults with and advises the multi-disciplinary teams and Family Assessment Planning Teams (FAPT) which exist within the community; may coordinate activities of these groups; serves as a community liaison and educator for issues of abuse or neglect; coordinates public education and community relations; disseminates information related to adult and child protective services. Prepares cases for and testifies in court proceedings as required; executes court orders. Monitors progress and compliance with court orders and provides on-going case management services to reduce family conflict and to prevent out of the home placement; maintain accurate case records of assessment, activities, and service plans. Provides training presentations and education on Child Protective Services policies and programs and remains abreast of current statewide policy initiatives and best practices related to the Human Services field. Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Psychology, Sociology, or a related field.
Two years of experience in social work or a related field.
Knowledge of child welfare laws and policies.
Knowledge of child development and family dynamics.
Skills in interviewing, assessment, and case management.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
Ability to testify in court.
Valid driver's license.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree in Social Work or a related field.
Experience in child protective services.
Bilingual in Spanish.

Responsibilities

Investigate cases of suspected adult and child abuse and neglect.
Screen and determine the validity of abuse or neglect allegations.
Evaluate high-risk situations and take appropriate measures to ensure child safety.
Work with and counsel families to implement service plans to reduce child abuse or neglect.
Participate in planning and evaluating programs related to adult/child abuse/neglect, foster care, and adoption.
Exercise emergency removal authority.
Interview family members to gather information on strengths, development, abuse history, parenting skills, and support systems.
Reach factually supported conclusions with input from various stakeholders.
Consult with and advise multi-disciplinary teams and Family Assessment Planning Teams (FAPT).
Serve as a community liaison and educator on abuse and neglect issues.
Coordinate public education and community relations.
Disseminate information related to adult and child protective services.
Prepare cases for and testify in court proceedings.
Execute court orders.
Monitor progress and compliance with court orders.
Provide ongoing case management services.
Maintain accurate case records.
Provide training and education on Child Protective Services policies and programs.
Stay informed about current statewide policy initiatives and best practices in Human Services.