Social Services Assistant

Dekalb Area Retirement Center • DeKalb, IL

3d

About The Position

Oak Crest is seeking a compassionate Social Services Assistant to support residents and families through the challenges, changes, and everyday experiences of aging. The role focuses on building relationships, helping residents navigate transitions, advocating for their needs, and collaborating with an interdisciplinary healthcare team to enhance residents’ quality of life.

Oak Crest is a faith-based, nonprofit senior living community committed to compassionate care that honors each person’s dignity, choices, and individuality. The Social Services Assistant helps put that commitment into practice through meaningful support, problem-solving, and resident advocacy.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Comfortable using Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating with a multidisciplinary team.
• Patience, empathy, professionalism, and a genuine desire to help others.
• Valid driver’s license and flexibility to work occasional weekends or holidays.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in social work or a related field preferred.
• Previous experience in long-term care or working with older adults preferred.
• Familiarity with care planning and healthcare documentation is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Get to know residents and assess their social, emotional, and environmental needs.
• Provide emotional support and assistance to residents and families as they navigate health changes, transitions, and other challenges.
• Help residents access community resources, supportive services, and programs that meet their individual needs.
• Participate in resident care planning meetings and collaborate with nursing and other departments to develop individualized plans of care.
• Monitor residents’ needs, communicate concerns, and coordinate appropriate follow-up.
• Assist with discharge planning, internal transfers, and transitions to other care settings when needed.
• Maintain accurate, timely assessments, documentation, and resident records.
• Advocate for residents’ rights, preferences, dignity, and independence.
• Serve as a backup for admissions, assisting with referrals, paperwork, insurance verification, tours, and coordination of new residents.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: High school or GED