Social Service Worker I

Kentucky Personnel Cabinet•Taylorsville, KY

8d•$58,334 - $66,111•Hybrid

About The Position

The Kentucky Department for Community Based Services (DCBS) is seeking a Social Service Worker I to help families achieve self-sufficiency and promote the safety and well-being of children and vulnerable adults. The worker serves as a link between children, families, and community partners, and is expected to provide high-quality services with professionalism and integrity. The role requires maturity, self-discipline, and the ability to work overtime. The agency may authorize telecommuting, but may modify or end that arrangement at any time. Career growth is encouraged through training and mentoring. The position is based in Taylorsville, Kentucky, and duties are performed in an office, facility, or residential program setting, as well as during visits to clients’ homes. Emergency services are provided on a 24-hour basis, including accepting referrals and conducting investigations at any hour without prior warning. Enforced intervention may expose the worker to risk of physical harm.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree from a college or university in social work, sociology, psychology, marriage and family therapy, or a related field.
Valid driver's license; employees must provide documentation of a valid license within one month of employment.
Maintain any required licensure, certification, or other credentials for the length of employment.
Ability to work overtime.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with families and/or children.
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.

Responsibilities

Investigate allegations of child abuse, neglect, and/or dependency.
Meet with family members to determine the merits of reports of child neglect and/or abuse.
Meet with interested parties, such as school and medical staff, to gather additional information.
Complete detailed assessments based on information gathered during home visits and meetings.
Work with families to create case plans for addressing and correcting household issues.
Refer families to community resources to help overcome identified 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 closely with community partners, including law enforcement, school systems, counselors, and shelters.