Human Services Assistant II

Virginia Department of Social Services•Montross, VA

2d•$26,565

About The Position

Human Services Assistant II is the full-performance level in the Human Services Assistant occupational group. Employees provide services in one or more program areas and perform responsible administrative and technical work in support of agency clients. The role differs from Human Services Assistant III, which serves as a screener and the initial point of contact for clients seeking benefits or services. Depending on the assigned program, work may support benefit programs, child protective services or other social work programs, a group home facility, or a child care facility. Duties include assisting clients and staff, maintaining records and computer systems, preparing correspondence and reports, making referrals, supporting care and treatment plans, and providing direct assistance to program participants.

Requirements

High school diploma supplemented by post-secondary coursework in social work, human services, gerontology, a social or behavioral science, business, or a related field, plus relevant public administrative support work experience; alternatively, an equivalent combination of training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
Working knowledge of agency computer systems and software, customer and personal service principles, human behavior and performance, individual differences, learning and motivation, and mathematics.
Some knowledge of regulations, policies, and procedures related to the assigned program area; some assignments may require knowledge of counseling terminology and practices.
Skill in operating automated office equipment, including a calculator and fax/copier, and computer-driven word processing, spreadsheet, graphics, and file maintenance programs.
Ability to read and interpret state and local policies and procedure manuals; prepare reports and correspondence; communicate effectively verbally and in writing; perform calculations; solve practical problems; and interpret written, oral, diagram, or schedule instructions.
Ability to work well with others and resolve conflicts; apply knowledge of human behavior and social functioning; recognize clients' basic needs; and exercise good judgment, tact, and resourcefulness.
Ability to instruct clients in direct-care techniques, maintain confidential records and materials, plan and prioritize tasks, use correct spelling and basic grammar, and interview clients to elicit needed information.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of DSS benefit programs or service programs.

Responsibilities

Operate computer systems to search for initial applications, renewals, and recertifications, and to update client information.
Provide information and assist clients with applications; answer incoming calls and respond to inquiries.
Provide case management and administrative support to Human Services Specialists and Social Workers.
Prepare and mail correspondence, provide information and referrals, verify information, and document client contacts and other situations.
Set up and maintain case files, complete forms, and assist with periodic, special, and other reports.
Follow up on referrals to ancillary agencies and identify client benefit needs and make appropriate referrals.
Update social work systems, research and purge case records, and prepare and maintain manual and computer schedules and alerts.
Train staff on entering data into social work systems.
Conduct adoption searches using court records, libraries, agency files, the Internet, and city directories, and make contact when a match is found.
Transport family members and program participants to appointments; mentor and support biological parents of foster care children, children, and foster families.
Testify in court when subpoenaed and act as a liaison between Social Workers and school representatives.
In group home settings, direct and train residents in chores, personal hygiene, and interpersonal skills; provide emotional, parental, and physical-needs support; and help carry out treatment and behavior modification plans.
In group home settings, assist with meal preparation and housekeeping, transport residents to services, and complete daily logs and other treatment-plan communications.
In child care settings, participate in group activities, enforce safety rules, and intervene to prevent children from injuring themselves or others.
Prepare and maintain program materials, follow procedures to safeguard children's health and safety, and report accidents involving injured children.
Attend periodic staff meetings and provide child care at designated locations and times as directed.