Social Service Worker I
About The Position
The Kentucky Department for Community Based Services (DCBS) provides services and programs that promote family self-sufficiency, improve safety and permanency for children and vulnerable adults, and support collaborative decision-making with families and community partners. The Social Service Worker I is a skilled team member who serves as a link between children, families, and local community partners. The role requires professionalism, integrity, maturity, self-discipline, and the ability to work under pressure and overtime. The agency may authorize telecommuting, and may modify or end that arrangement at any time. The position investigates reports of child abuse or neglect, assesses family circumstances, and works with families and community partners to address household issues and support children's safety and well-being. It includes office or facility work and visits to clients' residences, as well as emergency services and investigations at any hour without prior warning. Because of enforced intervention, the worker may be at risk of physical harm. Applicants must have a bachelor's degree in social work, sociology, psychology, marriage and family therapy, or a related field. No experience, training, or skills are required as minimum qualifications. Employees must provide documentation of a valid driver's license within one month of employment and maintain any required licenses, certifications, or credentials. The position requires a fingerprint-based criminal background check. The role has an initial and promotional probationary period of nine months, except as provided by law.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in social work, sociology, psychology, marriage and family therapy, or a related field.
- Valid driver's license documentation must be furnished to the appointing authority within one month of employment.
- Maintain any required licensure, certification, or other credentials for the length of employment.
- Submit to a fingerprint-based criminal background check.
- Maturity, self-discipline, and ability to work overtime.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Good time-management and organizational skills.
- Ability to work well under pressure.
- Willingness to work as part of a team.
Nice To Haves
- Experience working with families or children.
Responsibilities
- Investigate allegations of child abuse or neglect.
- Meet with family members to assess reports of child neglect or abuse.
- Meet with interested parties, including school and medical staff, to gather information.
- Complete detailed assessments based on information obtained during home visits and meetings.
- Work with families to create case plans for addressing and correcting household issues.
- Refer families to community resources to address barriers, keep children safe in permanent homes, and promote their well-being.
- Enter case information into the computer.
- Complete court reports as needed.
- Provide testimony during administrative and judicial hearings.
- Work with community partners, including law enforcement, school systems, counselors, and shelters.
- Provide emergency services on a 24-hour basis, including accepting referrals and completing investigations at any hour without prior warning.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
