Social Work Supervisor, Homicide Unit

Brooklyn Defender Services•New York, NY

4d•$125,000 - $140,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Brooklyn Defender Services (BDS) is seeking a Social Work Supervisor to join the Homicide Unit in its Brooklyn offices. BDS is a public defense organization dedicated to representing low-income New Yorkers in criminal, family, immigration, and civil legal matters. For nearly 30 years, BDS has advocated for the rights of individuals and worked to change unjust laws and systems. The Homicide Unit is an interdisciplinary team comprising attorneys, social workers, investigators, paralegals, and administrative professionals. The Social Work Supervisor will collaborate with unit managers and staff, reporting to the Social Work Director for Criminal Defense.

Requirements

New York State Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) or Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW).
Five years of experience working with clients involved in the criminal legal system.
Experience working with incarcerated individuals.
Prior social work supervisory experience.
Excellent writing and editing skills.
Knowledge of the psychological, behavioral, and neurological diseases and disorders outlined in the DSM-5, as well as intergenerational and complex trauma.
Willingness to be actively involved in case discussions and strategy with a team of attorneys, investigators, and other case participants.
Strong crisis intervention, safety planning, and client advocacy skills.
Demonstrated ability to work in a collaborative and multi-disciplinary environment.
SIFI Certified or willingness to obtain certification.

Responsibilities

Work with attorneys, paralegals, investigators, and support staff within the unit and across BDS to ensure clients receive optimal representation and available resources.
Provide direct supervision to social workers and social work assistants in the Homicide Unit.
Offer regular feedback and conduct informal and formal evaluations of social work staff.
Assign cases and monitor the caseloads of supervisees.
Review and edit all written advocacy materials before submission to external partners.
Monitor staff case files, notes, and documentation on case management and document management systems, ensuring accurate recording in compliance with professional responsibility rules and BDS policies.
Ensure sufficient client interaction and support, including in-person visits on Rikers Island.
Provide crisis intervention and respond to emergent situations.
Maintain a reduced personal caseload as necessary.
Collaborate closely with the Managing Director to foster team cohesion.
Partner with other BDS social work supervisors to develop strategies for the agency-wide social work team, including assisting in planning and conducting trainings for social workers and attorneys.
Attend staff, team, and agency meetings as required.
Apply BDS policies and procedures, including personnel and office policies; serve as ADP supervisor.
Promote a supportive team environment and actively work to create an equitable and inclusive workplace.
Perform other responsibilities as assigned.